The 2025 Honda Ridgeline offers a powerful V6 engine, a comfortable ride, and unique features like a versatile bed and ample storage. Despite its updates, it faces stiff competition in the midsize truck segment, but its practicality and reliability make it a strong contender.
The midsize truck segment has seen a flurry of redesigns and updates recently, and Honda is joining the fray with a refreshed version of the often-overlooked Ridgeline. This blog post will explore whether the 2025 Honda Ridgeline is a great truck to buy, based on a week-long test drive experience.
Under the hood, the 2025 Ridgeline is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower. This engine is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and comes standard with all-wheel drive. The combined fuel economy for the Trail Sport trim is rated at 20 MPG. During our test drive, we will also discuss real-world fuel economy and sound level readings.
The refreshed Ridgeline introduces a new Trail Sport trim, featuring a rugged gray grille, Trail Sport branding in signature orange, and gloss black accents. The lighting setup includes partially LED projector headlights for low beams, while the high beams remain halogen, which feels outdated for a 2025 model. The truck also features LED daytime running lights and fog lamps.
At the rear, the Ridgeline sports a bold design with the name spelled out across the tailgate, enhancing its tough truck appearance. The tail lights include an LED brake light, while the turn signal and reverse lights are incandescent. The truck maintains dual exposed exhaust outlets and has a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.
The Ridgeline comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, with the Trail Sport trim featuring a unique design and all-terrain tires. The off-road tuned suspension is exclusive to this trim, enhancing its capability.
One of the standout features of the Ridgeline is its innovative bed design. The tailgate can open traditionally or swing open to the side, making loading and unloading easier. Additionally, there is a watertight storage compartment under the bed that offers 7.3 cubic feet of space, perfect for keeping items safe from the elements.
The bed itself is lined and features lighting, with dimensions that include a length of about 63 inches and a width of approximately 51 inches, making it the widest truck bed in its segment.
Inside, the Ridgeline offers a comfortable cabin with leatherette materials and soft-touch plastics. The Trail Sport trim features unique branding and color accents. The front seats are power-adjustable with lumbar support, while the rear seats provide ample legroom and headroom, making it a comfortable ride for all passengers.
The 2025 model introduces a new gauge cluster with a partially digital display and an upgraded 9-inch infotainment system that supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The audio system has also been enhanced, providing good sound quality throughout the cabin.
The Ridgeline features a three-zone automatic climate control system, allowing for independent temperature settings for the rear passengers, which is a rare feature in this segment.
During our test drive, the Ridgeline demonstrated a smooth and comfortable ride, akin to that of a Honda Pilot. The V6 engine provides a refined driving experience, with enough power to handle various driving conditions. The 9-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, although it may not be as refined as Honda's newer 10-speed options.
The sound level reading during our drive was recorded at 57 dB, placing it on the quieter end of the spectrum for trucks. The ride quality is one of the Ridgeline's strongest aspects, soaking up bumps and providing a comfortable experience.
The Ridgeline's practicality and comfort stand out as its strongest features. The unibody platform allows for unique storage solutions and a ride quality that rivals crossovers.
However, the updates made for 2025, while positive, may not be enough to keep pace with competitors like the Toyota Tacoma and Chevy Colorado, which have undergone significant redesigns.
The estimated resale value for the Ridgeline after five years is around 64.8% of its original MSRP, making it one of the best in its class. Honda's reputation for reliability further enhances its appeal, with the brand consistently rated above the industry average.
The 2025 Ridgeline starts at approximately $41,150 for the base Sport trim, with the top-tier Black Edition priced around $46,750. Destination fees add an additional $395.
The 2025 Honda Ridgeline is a compelling option in the midsize truck market, offering a blend of power, comfort, and practicality. While it may not have the flashiest updates compared to its competitors, its unique features and Honda's reliability make it a truck worth considering for those in the market for a midsize vehicle.
