2023 Honda Ridgeline - Let's Settle This

Ok, let's settle this once and for all. If the Honda Ridgeline isn't a truck then what is it? Is the Ridgeline so different from other trucks? If it is, what makes it different and is it a bad thing? This week we brought our dictionary along to define exactly what the 2023 Honda Ridgeline is. We also learned a lot of other new words.
In its purest form, truck owners wouldn't classify the Honda Ridgeline as a true truck. This week David and Jared look at the Ridgeline to see what makes it different and try to answer the mystery of the Ridgeline. They will also look at what makes the Ridgeline great from its rear trunk to its outdoor speakers and even its big cupholders.
Honda created the Ridgeline in 2006 because they saw a gap in the truck market and wanted it filled. It is a truck that carries a lot of practical elements with it and boasts a comfortable luxurious drive and handle, while still maintaining a bit of the rugged elements of a truck. However the same gap in the truck market so long ago is slowly being filled by other trucks. Is the Ridgeline still a heavy hitter with newer redesigned trucks like the Toyota RAV4 and the Nissan Frontier.
Come along for the drive and see what we think of Hondas one and only pick up truck.
*Thanks to Cambridge Centre Honda for letting us review this 2023 Honda Ridgeline*
Write Us: PO Box 124. St. Jacobs Po, ON, N0B2N0
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Website: www.hoodslappers.com
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#hoodslappersofficial #honda #ridgeline ‪@HondaCanadaInc‬

[@mikeflackii1939]

Have a 2017 RTL-T and I absolutely love it!!!! Actually the first vehicle I have ever had that I haven't wanted to trade in after a couple of years!!!!!

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

Well, now we have to ask how many vehicles you’ve owned and what has been your favourite. You brought it up. :) Thanks for watching.

[@Bleatmop]

Great video guys! David is turning into a great, considerable, substantial, significant, and appreciable host! His use of a thesaurus, reference book, glossary, lexicon, and onomasticon is unmatched! The Ridgeline seems like a great truck too! It's just big enough that all your friends, relations, acquaintances, and people you just met in the mall will ask you every weekend for the rest of your life to help them move! And all for the offer of a steak dinner that will never materialize, appear, happen, or occur! But seriously, unless you are needing a Ram for work then the Ridgeline offers everything you could need in a truck without costing more than my house.

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

Looks like someone has been doing some extra reading these days. We certainly are enjoying having David join us as a guest host. He’s a great guy. As for the Ridgeline. We couldn’t agree more. It’s not too much truck, it’s really the right amount of truck. We really liked it. As always, thanks for watching.

[@Eddie-yc5yd]

Last month i bought 2023 RTL Ridgeline. With 2k off and 2.9% for 60 months. I thought that was a good deal. And i don't want to buy an overpriced full size truck. Have no need for one. Really love the large and usefull storage under the bed. And the suv like ride. The Ridgeline is in a class of its own.

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

That’s a fantastic deal. Nice going and congratulations. Not everyone needs the heavy duty trucks that can tow an Apollo rocket. You got something that fits your needs. That’s what choosing the right vehicle is about. Enjoy the Ridgeline. We love it.

[@AuntMoe]

Honda of Kenosha had .9% financing for 60 months, that was in January, not sure what it is now

[@mandytuning]

Did you financed by honda? I see its 2.9@36m and 4.9 @60m

[@christopherschleeper7186]

Should add that the Ridgeline is only mid size truck that can fit a 4x8 sheet of plywood.

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

Great point! Thanks for sharing that with other viewers. Certainly smaller than most trucks.

[@user-vt9ss3ft2z]

Lol who cares. Still doesn't make it a truck.

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

So where would you say is the threshold? When is a truck a truck and when is it just an SUV with a box? Thanks for commenting.

[@user-vt9ss3ft2z]

@HoodSlappersOfficial I'd say body on frame and true 4x4 makes it a truck. Rear wheel drive based and a solid rear axle. Front wheel drive based, awd and unibody construction makes it an suv with a bed.

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

Fair enough. Much appreciated.

[@Hammerdak]

I’ve driven and owned several “ traditional” mid-sized trucks. I also owned a 2009 Ridgeline and now have a 2018 Ridgeline. It still puzzles me why anyone would choose less refinement, more noise and vibration, a rougher less contained suspension, an antiquated 4WD system, poorer reliability and gas mileage, less functionality , less front and rear passenger room and fewer standard features. IMO theres only two reasons not to get a Ridgeline. You regularly tow a 7000 lb trailer or you honestly need 12 inches of ground clearance and 40” tire clearance. In every other class from sports car to SUV people demand the latest and greatest in tech and engineering in their vehicle yet truck guys defend to the death that a drivetrain and suspension layout developed in the 1950’s is the only way to go. I just don’t get it.

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

Thanks for sharing. We read somewhere that only 35% of pick up drivers tow on a regular basis. So, it does seem overkill to buy a massive truck for a seldom use of its ability. However, some people buy VW Beetles and Nissan Cubes because they actually like them and for no other reason. Pick up drivers may not admit it as much, but they may choose a pick up more often than not for personal want rather than any practicality. Who knows. Thanks for watching.

[@Hammerdak]

@@HoodSlappersOfficial …or they want a massive truck to prove they’re a man, despite the fact they don’t know which end of a hammer is used to drive a nail.

[@mocheeks709]

They are compensating for something.

[@Hammerdak]

@@mocheeks709 ….usually.

[@rackemmm1947]

I bought a 23 sport almost a year ago and it’s pretty sweet. Coming from a Colorado and an f150 this truck is by far the best riding vehicle I’ve ever owned. I occasionally pull a trailer with a uforce 1000 on it for a combined weight of around 3k pounds. It pulls nice in sport mode and I can pick my gear with the paddle shifters if I see a hill coming. They don’t have a lot of low end torque so you want to keep it around 3k or higher in the hills. They say the tow rating is 5k and that may be less than other midsized trucks but let’s be real, if you’re pulling more you should move up to a 1500 size truck. If anyone is considering a midsize they should take a look at one

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

Thanks for sharing. You’re absolutely right. Hondas have always had higher end torque. As you said though, you can pick your gear. It’s a great truck and the ride is just as good as you say. Thanks again for commenting and for watching. Enjoy your Ridgeline. Here is to many miles ahead

[@Xplicit_fpv]

Love my 2020 ridgeline!! Love all the humor! Great vid!

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

Thanks so much. Enjoy the Ridgeline and thanks for saying hello.

[@Xplicit_fpv]

@@HoodSlappersOfficial ✌️✌️

[@Mark-bh8mb]

I don't care about trucks right now but somehow I clicked on your video (first-time watcher). I needed your humor today fellas, it helped me a lot.

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

Mark, Thank you so much for the message. If we can make someone laugh, then our job is done. Hopefully your day turned around. Keep smiling and enjoy the journey Mark.

[@stevenheise9817]

Have a 2008 and absolutely love driving it! I originally took alot of heat from friends that it was a girls truck then when the same friends rode in it the jokes STOP. I’ve had chevy, gmc and dodge trucks in the past but found that I love the Ridgelines smooth ride and dependability. Yeah, gas mileage is nothing special but I don’t care! I could tell you lots of great experiences I’ve had with it but the best recommendation I can offer is to DRIVE ONE! You’ll be amazed.

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

Brilliant. Thanks for the comment. Nothing beats real experience over to morons putting together a 15 minute video. Thanks for sharing that. Keep on driving. How many kms/miles do you have on it now?

[@travisp11]

The 2023 Ridgelines have been flying off my local Honda dealers lot due to the discounts. I wanted a 2024 Ridgeline Trailsport but decided on a 2024 Passport Trailsport instead with a towing package.

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

They are so similar in terms of ride and features. You did alright with the Passport. Would like to see a redesign soon though.

[@travisp11]

@@HoodSlappersOfficial the biggest feature that sold me on a 2024 is the center console. Sounds crazy but I didn’t wanna wait for the 2024 Ridgelines to start showing up and I tried a 2023 Ridgeline and 2023 Passport and couldn’t stand the captains chairs arm rests.

[@travisp11]

I agree but I just hope they don't ditch the V6 which was another major selling point for me.@@HoodSlappersOfficial

[@photo_n_art]

Bradvid is doing excellent job 👍 btw. HPD stands for Houston Police Department 🤠

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

The Honda Ridgeline Houston Police Department. It’s got a ring to it. The question is, is the Houston Police Department using any Ridgelines?

[@photo_n_art]

⁠ as far as I can tell they are still using eco feiendly, 4 hoofs drive, 1 Horse Power, Broncos... 🤣 # let "Bradvid" drive

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

@photo_n_art Bradvid probably has a better shot at driving. Ha

[@larrypjonesjr2224]

You guys are great …. Keep up the great reviews & reporting 👍🏻

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

Thank you so much Larry. If you keep watching, we will keep reviewing. :)

[@beldarana3108]

You guys are hilarious!!😂

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

Thank you so much! Thanks for watching.

[@nickster0007]

I've got the 2017. I like that it has a volume knob now, but don't like the push-button shift.

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

Yea, Honda got roasted on removing volume knobs on their vehicles. At least we know they listen to complaints. That’s a huge positive. The push button shit does take getting used to. The worst part is not having somewhere to rest your hand. Thanks for watching.

[@reallymatt6494]

I purchased 2023 Ridgeline, love it, only one key area is the wireless charger does not work on my Apple iPhone 12 or new 15. It is pathetic that Honda knows this is a well known issue and people spend good money for an option that does not work. This is on all Ridgelines and maybe CRV’s?

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

Thanks for sharing. What did the dealership say when you brought it in? Is there a fix?

[@brianmcgowan4280]

Works with mine.

[@AuntMoe]

I just purchased a 2023 Honda Ridgeline and my new iPhone 15 charges with the wireless charging pad.

[@crawdaddct]

Yea mine works with my wife’s phone, but not mine. I think my truck likes her better.

[@AuntMoe]

My wireless charger works but my new cord on my iPhone 15 does not have a USB on it. I had to get a adapter so I could plug it into my truck for certain functions.

[@henrigreene3781]

What type of truck you buy ( I think) depends on 1. What you can realistically afford 2. What you intend to use it for. If you need a truck for work the ridge line might not be for you. But if you want a truck but don’t necessarily need one then the ridge line will probably more truck than you will ever need. Especially if you’re not blinded by brand loyalty to the big three. Take care of a ridge line then it will still be driving long after other trucks built the same year have been crushed and recycled.

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

We should have explored this in our video. Longevity is huge for the Ridgeline. A 500,000km (310,685miles) odometer is almost assumed when you buy and look after your Ridgeline. Thanks for the comment Henri. Have a great day mate.

[@TheHartmans36]

Love our 2022 RTL-E!!

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

That’s fantastic. Thanks for sharing.

[@vgrg7841]

IMO , the Ridgeline is not bad. I actually like it. Pit it this way, it was Hondas intent to make it seem different, and they have made improvements ever since it's inception in the early 2000's I think. Its also intriguing and interesting...

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

It is certainly unique, especially the first gen in 2006. It will be very interesting to see what the next redesign will be. Thanks for watching.

[@tl4633]

2020 RTL-E owner here and I love it. My only complaint is the infotainment and the suv look of the front end. Adult rear passengers have complained about the seat comfort, or lack of. I would buy another one if needed to.

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

That’s actually a good point. Since 2016, Hondas have started to look the same with not just their interiors but also exterior. The 2016 Pilot looked like an Odyssey, the 2017 Ridgeline looked like the Pilot and so on. Thanks for watching and for saying hello.

[@MyJeffrey1970]

Please review the REFRESH 2024 Ridgeline. USA have venterlated seats on 2024😍

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

You bet we will once we can get our hands on one. Thanks for watching. Keep those buns cool. :)

[@tycheatham1594]

Not sure what changes will take place in Canada, but Honda created the Trailsport, and that has taken place of our RTL-E model (which was Canada's Touring model) the US models are Sport, RTL, Trailsport and Black Edition. Only our B.E. gets heated/ventilated seats. The 3 lower trims still don't offer that option.

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

@tycheatham1594 thanks for sharing. The different trim level names between Canada and the US has always baffled us. Why? It just seems like so much extra work.

[@tycheatham1594]

@HoodSlappersOfficial first, I'll say... you guys do great reviews. 👍 and second, I'm with ya, and I'd love to know and understand what makes vehicle manufacturers market how they do. 1. Why would they not offer a Touring model to the US as well (for those who weren't aware, the Touring model not only offered ventilated front seats, but also power folding mirrors, rain sensing wipers, rear heated seats, rear climate controls and more) but now for 24', I don't 100% know if the US Black Edition is as "loaded" with every option as the Canadian Touring model, but we finally at least get ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and rain sensing wipers. They did add power folding mirrors to the US Trailsport and B.E. The Sport and RTL still lack most of the luxury options but are still nice, comfortable, and capable trim levels for those that don't care for or need all of the bells & whistles. The Ridgeline is my dream truck (I hope to replace my 09 Frontier with) that I've been studying since the 17' model, so that's why I know a little about em' plus I'm just an overall Honda fan. I currently have a 17' Accord Touring model that I specifically bought due to it being the last Accord V6, and I absolutely adore and will keep it forever. Again, great reviews. Keep up the great work, guys. 😉👌

[@wilmarbarrick3194]

That's not coffee... it's break fluid... get it... BREAK fluid. Wasn't gonna let you corner the corny market.😂

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

Hey!!!! You leave the bad jokes to us alright. That’s all we have going for us. :)

[@williamfeldner9356]

It is a Japanese El Cameno

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

Haha. That’s awesome. Business in the front, party in the back.

[@lbjgh]

The best midsized pickup period. Haul a 4x8 sheet of building material like a work truck. No other midsized can do that because they aren't real trucks. If you want to go off road get a Jeep.

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

It’s really in a category all on its own as it’s so different from its direct competitors. We absolutely love it.

[@jakedenis4579]

Its simplistic and reliable rides nicely has one of the best inbed payload ratings in its class and a NA V6 that will last forever. Can't really say that about a lot of midsize trucks now even if its not a body on frame its still better than having a 4cyl in something slightly bigger and definitely heavier. Its what you need really who cares if its a unibody.

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

Thanks for commenting. Are you currently driving a Ridgeline?

[@user-vt9ss3ft2z]

It's not a truck. It's an suv crossover

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

What about the Toyota Tacoma then?

[@swlancaster1964]

Not quack!😂😂😂

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

Thanks for watching. Hopefully you had a laugh or two and even learned something.

[@kdun226]

The prices of all new vehicles are ridiculous -

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

It has gotten a little out of hand. It’s nice to see used cars starting to come down again.

[@ldawson103]

🙄The amount of time wasted with this ridiculous argument, is the Ridgeline a “real” truck? Considering the Ridgeline had its best sales year in 2023 since its introduction I’m guessing buyers don’t care.

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

It’s a long drawn out debate for sure. It’s as obvious as whether or not Jordan is the Greatest of all time. We didn’t know 2023 was that good of a year. Thanks for sharing.

[@rockyrengo]

They should have kept the angle box design. That’s what makes it the Ridgeline. Very disappointing!!!!!!

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

That was such a great design. The Pilot got a bit more boxy, maybe the next Ridgeline will be too. :)

[@AuntMoe]

I have a 2006 Honda Ridgeline with the angle box design, and just purchased the 2023 without the angle box design, there is more visibility without the angle box design. It created a larger blind spot.

[@rockyrengo]

@@AuntMoe I agree. But now without the angle box it just looks like every other small truck out there. I have a 2007 and it is a little tricky seeing out the back for sure.

[@IMP3TIGO]

Ugh, the attempts at humor fall flat and made this unwatchable for me. I would recommend turning it down a bit

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

Thanks for watching anyway. Have a great weekend.

[@rickzangora4340]

Tipical Brits….bla bla bla 😴

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

We didn’t say “bla bla bla” once! Thanks for watching though. :)

[@rickzangora4340]

@@HoodSlappersOfficial no worries mate 😂

[@user-zb7tg5hi3t]

Honda has a class action lawsuit against them for the 9 spd transmissions. Do your research before buying

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

Can you elaborate on this? We have contacted multiple dealers and they know nothing of it. Thanks!

[@jg8263]

Funny, the off-the-shelf ZF transmission that is also found in Jeep and Dodge and many other brands' products, that Honda did not develop and is not responsible for, and they are the only ones getting sued, do tell.

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

Good point.

[@bftram8312]

Look forward to many more of your awesome reviews in 2024.

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

Thank you so much. You asked for it. ;)

[@PhenomMedivh]

Keep up the dry humor. I give it my Dad Seal of Approval. 🦭

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

Hey we wear that proudly. Ha. Thanks so much for watching. Together we will keep dad humour alive.

[@user-vt9ss3ft2z]

It's not a truck. It's an suv crossover

[@HoodSlappersOfficial]

But it does truck things! :)