What’s new

• In 2024, a complete makeover could happen.
• If not, the idea of a new off-road TrailSport trim is still alive.
• The last time Ridgeline was fixed up was in 2017.

We can’t tell what Honda plans to do with the Ridgeline in 2024, but we do know a few essential things: The Ridgeline is built on the updated Honda Pilot SUV, which got a facelift in 2016 and a new Ridgeline in 2017. Because the fourth-generation Honda Pilot will come out in 2023, a new Ridgeline will be on the market in 2024. Since the second-generation Ridgeline has been on the market for a very long time—seven model years, from 2017 to 2023—there will probably be a new Ridgeline in the next few model years.

When it goes on sale, we expect the new Ridgeline’s trims, style, and engine to be similar to the Pilot’s. Because of this, the current V6’s 280 horsepower will be replaced by a new 3.5-liter V6 with 285 horsepower. The improved all-wheel-drive system works with Honda’s 10-speed automatic transmission. The current Ridgeline only has nine speeds. This makes it possible to shift power to the rear axle faster. Honda wanted to give the Pilot more capabilities, so the TrailSport version has bigger tires, an inch more ground clearance, skid plates, and other changes. A new Ridgeline should have this trim. Even if the car isn’t completely rebuilt, the Ridgeline TrailSport is a good chance.

Honda knows that the Ridgeline’s simple appearance makes people ignore it. It’s easy to forget about the sensible Ridgeline in a class of pumped-up, testosterone-filled middleweights. And there are a lot of other midsize trucks that have more power, are better off-road, have more cab and bed choices, and can pull more. Check out the Toyota Tacoma, the Jeep Gladiator, and the Chevrolet Colorado. On the other hand, the Ridgeline is still one of our favorites because it is so helpful, easy to drive, comfortable, and good on gas.