2021 Honda Ridgeline Sport AWD Off-Road and Snow Review

[@ChadHargis]

The Ridgeline does an admirable job off road for a truck that was never designed to go off road. The beauty of the Ridgeline is the ride, handling, comfort, and all-weather traction.

[@Loopsrainforest]

With winter tires the Ridgeline is like a heavy larger & slower rally car in the snow. The stability on slick highways really changed the way I looked at this truck. I had to stop making fun of my father for buying one.

[@scottfurlong5475]

I don't know why anyone would make fun of anyone who purchased one of these, even the model with the whimpy front. It's an awesome vehicle. I've had full size trucks but don't need them now, the ridgeline is the perfect vehicle for people like me who just want comfort but occasionally need to throw dirt crap in the back.

[@willthorson4543]

@@scottfurlong5475 i do and will even though the newer front end makes it better looking. But it's still a hipster truck. I'll stick to full size pickups. I find it hilarious people trying to put this up against full size trucks instead of the ranger,Colorado, and Tacoma.

[@owequitit]

@@willthorson4543 funny because 99% of the “hipster truck” people always go back to extolling the virtues of their full-size truck which means they are actually the ones comparing this to full-trucks instead of the mid-size competition. I’m about the furthest thing from a hipster and I love mine. But I bet you haven’t even experienced one…

[@treydrier3169]

@@willthorson4543 You think this is a 'hipster' truck????? That would be the Jeep Gladiator genius.

[@treydrier3169]

@Macho Sancho What??? Completely different than the Bronco Sport. Not even in the same category. The Ridgeline is a truck with a 5 1/2 foot bed. The Bronco Sport is an SUV.

[@marcguerino5645]

I always hated Honda Ridgelines. After watching this? I'm mad that it turns out that this is exactly the kind of truck I would need hahaha Gotta give credit where credit is due, definitely a solid option! Great review

[@jg8263]

Let's take a moment and be real here: although not the most challenging of off-road tests in this video, they are realistically about as challenging as most truck owners ever actually use their trucks in (yes, some do extreme mudding and/or rock crawling, but they are the minority of truck owners).

[@Grodd70]

As a Gladiator Rubicon owner I 100% agree with this statement. I use the Jeep in some pretty back country wheeling (hunting, fishing camping) and I still have not used all of the stuff on the Rubicon. NEVER have I needed the front locker or to disconnect front sway bar. Even for guys who go out in back country a 4x4 and a rear locker will take you A LOT of places, anything more than that I would probably just tow in a UTV. The Ridgeline while not practical for me ...Yet ;) Some day it might be. Also, with a little lift (pretty sure they made it for previous gens) and some decent tires the thing does pretty good for light and I would even say medium off road conditions.

[@jg8263]

@@Grodd70 we appreciate the support, most responses to such a statement are a bit more immature. You are correct about the lifts, you can get up 3.5 inches for the Gen 2 from Traxda and Jsport. My dad has had off-road trucks his whole life, in fact just got a new Z71, and even he acknowledged that he rarely needs the 4wd and usually that is for moving the truck before plowing the snow here in Northern Wisconsin. Have a great time in your Gladiator. We soft roader owners respect that some need that capability, and we respect people who understand that some people like us don't need that same capability.

[@jg8263]

@@Grodd70 You also bring up an interesting point about bringing a UTV. One thing I find I dislike with modern car/truck development is that they make driving numb/dull. For your example with a UTV, I can have a ton of fun on moderately to challenging terrain with a UTV, but if I get something like a Tremor or TRX, it makes the moderate terrain seem like a drive to Starbucks, and no longer fun or even challenging. Another example with performance cars, in the 60s-70s a car with 7s 0-60 and 14s 1/4 mile times was fast and wild. Nowadays I can buy a mid-size sedan that smokes those numbers and make them feel boring and safe. Heck the "fast" 2004 F150 SVT Lightning has a 0-60 of around 6.5s, towing of 5000lbs, and payload of 1400lbs for a price in the mid to upper $30k range, sounds an awful lot like the exciting Ford truck is the exact same as the Honda Ridgeline in speed, towing, and payload. Yet if I got in the old car or that F150 today, it would be more exciting because you are pushing its limits and are more involved in the experience. Similarly, taking a less capable vehicle like a CUV, an old 80s-90s 4x4, or a Ridgeline into moderately challenging terrain is actually more involved and exciting than taking the same terrain with a Raptor. It is not that the Raptor isn't more capable, it is that it is so capable that it makes what should be fun boring. If you took a Tremor or Gladiator Rubicon like yours to Moab, it is "normal" or expected to perform well, if you do like JonDZ Adventuring does on his channel and take a 2019 Passport to Moab, it is very impressive and more of an accomplishment to brag about because he was pushing the vehicle to its limits.

[@Grodd70]

@@jg8263 I agree with a lot of those points when I was a kid 80's I was on HS drag race team with a 67 Camaro, second fastest on team with best time of 13.35 et which was fast. An SS Camaro/ GT Mustang of today would walk that. And at the end of 1320 feet you felt like you were flying :) One of the reasons I liked the Jeep is it still felt kind of like ...well a Jeep. It still has a transfer case with ..wait for it ..a shift lever ..no button or knob ..now the rest of it with seat heaters and stearing wheel heater an adaptive cruise control which I still cant figure out is over the top not necessary, One of my favorite cars was my FJ Cruiser it was still just a basic SUV. It had some modern stuff but still felt truck like. I believe that is why all this stuff isn't nearly as reliable as it once was..heck I had 220k on Old Toyota truck and 295K on an old YJ jeep ..no seat heaters, no navigation roll up windows (ok that should been upgraded LOL) I was watching a video on KZbin of 1970 Ford F100 and Chevrolet C10 Loved guys comment "I bet both those trucks at 50 yrs old outlast their modern counterparts LOL

[@jg8263]

@@Grodd70 absolutely!

[@eariamjh71]

The fact that you were doing the snow climb with all season tires is pretty impressive.

[@josej4169]

This is the best 2021 Ridgeline Review I have seen so far. I like how you test it out in different scenarios. I'm actually really interested in one as my Tacoma just feels slow, drives rough and I barely off road with it.

[@IamGroot786]

If you never off road you’ll love it. Mine’s a 2017 and they’re so solid on the road with the torque vectoring. You’d be amazed at how fast you can take turns with it. Also, the OEM tires are basically crap not just in terms of traction, but also stopping distances suck on snow and ice. If you’re in the snow belt go with ATs that are snow rated.

[@Adrian-jh5cr]

If you don't really of road then look at the subaru...I have had both the Tacoma's and tundra's and I love them, tough dependable and they have gotten me out of some situations that I thought for sure I would pay several hundred's in a tow truck! Maybe your needs has a different vehicle.

[@jg8263]

@@IamGroot786 I recommend the Falken Wildpeak AT3W for an AT tire, or fit it with Firestone Weathergrip for great all around, all weather performance.

[@JustAlanIsCool]

I've got a 2019 taco, v6 auto, power feels great just bad fuel economy (~15mpg combined). Stock suspension is way off, as in damping isn't matched up to the overly-stiff spring rates, especially in the rear. And you get metric crap ton of bump-steer in the taco, to the point it isn't safe. Example I can drive straight at 25mph, one wheel goes over a small sharp bump and the steering wheel goes nuts trying to go anywhere BUT straight. If it's not alignment (trucks require very high caster, no toe at all possible, and camber is up to discretion of the operator to a degree. I've yet to get an alignment but if it isn't that, then it's an engineering design fault. Out of all of the vehicles I own, driven down the same roads with the same bumps, only the new truck freaks out over a bump in the road (ironic since it's supposed to made to handle bad terrain).

[@---rg1gb]

Agree. I got rid of my tacoma bc drive was so rough (I commute an hour a day) Maybe ridgeline for me in near future. Cheers!

[@Marbind]

I love videos like these that prove how a vehicle is more capable than what many people think. Imagine the ridgeline with true off-road rubber and a lift. I love the 0-60 test that is a nice touch.

[@geographyinaction7814]

There are lift kits available, from 3/4" to 3 1/2".

[@cameronnorton5898]

The ridgeline is literally an AWD minivan with a truck bed... That said it does great for what it is.

[@williamo2066]

@@cameronnorton5898 So I guess an F-150 is a Crown Vic with a bed since it's body on frame, RWD, with a small block V8. And a Silverado is a Caprice with a bed since it's body on frame, RWD, with a small block V8. The original pickup truck was a model T (car), with a custom made bed. Actually the first gas tractors were custom Model T's as well. I'm not sure what point you're trying to make. Literally the only thing that makes a truck a truck, is the bed.

[@tomhurley6096]

@@williamo2066 " Literally the only thing that makes a truck a truck, is the bed." Thank you for pointing out something that should be obvious! Guess that now makes 2 of us that are mentally and emotionally capable of drilling down to the only true characteristic of what makes a truck, a truck. Having said that, yes, I wish that Honda would offer a version with higher ground clearance, and a longer bed. I don't need a rock crawler, but I would like more ground clearance to navigate the frequent 3 foot snowstorms we get here in the Sierras, and a longer bed to carry longer stuff without having to drop the tailgate.

[@matthewsteinert1002]

@@cameronnorton5898that’s why I like it 🤣

[@rkalla]

From 15:00-25:00 some of the best 4wd testing I’ve ever seen for the Ridgeline or Honda systems, such great work shooting and editing this!

[@johng.4959]

Subscribed! Great review and commentary because of the way this truck was exposed to real world obstacles. Just imagine if Honda changed/added some little things! 1. Add more ground clearance! 2. Better off-road tires. 3. Skid plates. 4. Stop skimping on the little things like gauges, lights, usb ports. If Honda got serious...SERIOUS.... This truck would be killing it!

[@brennenmeivorm7292]

I love the new intro. Give me old Top Gear vibes. Seems fitting

[@587G]

Bring back the old American version of Top Gear!!!! Hell yeah!!

[@SigSayer]

Ahhh Top Gear. . . I sure do miss theos guys. . "Tonight on Top Gear. . . James sniffs a chip, Hammond crashes again, and I yell POWER!!!"

[@liambassitt5919]

@@SigSayer the nostalgia this brought me hahaha

[@Painfulwhale360]

Out of all the 2021Honda Ridgeline reviews I think yours has been the best. Packed with a ton of knowledge delivered effectively. Thank you, sir!

[@BikeKayaker]

If I was going to go off road, I'd get a Tacoma. But for everyday, around town, highway, comfort, hauling, street driving in the snow and good fuel economy, it's a great vehicle.

[@BoiseTDI]

The fuel economy is not a highlight, it’s no better than a Tundra. It’s the one thing keeping me from purchasing this.

[@ryanb8736]

@@BoiseTDIIt’s way better than a Tundra. Tundra gets 17 highway. Ridgeline gets 25.

[@jorn978]

"Honda is targeting a younger audience" No offense Honda but I don't know many young people who have 40k to blow on a vehicle, let alone a base model. This really need to start around like 30k

[@achillespeleus2326]

Yeah I haven't seen that advertised anywhere I don't know who told him that. And it does start at 35k but this one has a HPD package.

[@jtomtl]

special finance program, 60 months loan, buy to hook up chicks

[@titusfountain3898]

Rich young Asian 🤣🤣🤣

[@christopherr7195]

This is a 25k truck all day. But people keep paying dumb amounts for. So they keep raising the ticket price

[@LG-yp7ot]

@@christopherr7195 lol delusional

[@nikolayrayanov2895]

Great AWD to be honest, good job Honda.

[@jetlee7743]

One of the best reviews testing the off road stock truck i think the performance would be better suited with off road tires to suit the environment but nice to see the limitation on the stock tires

[@krisw8597]

I still think Honda has the best AWD system on the market today. With a good set of tires that truck would be really effective in going further if needed. Yes I said truck, and this is coming from a ZR2 owner. Honda did a great job on the Ridgeline, especially when it comes to driving and storage… I wish the ZR2 had some better storage In The door area… but then again, the ZR2 makes up for it in so many different ways especially off road, absolutely incredible.

[@trudgyhd]

I like seeing the comparison's of the different AWD modes, very interesting. Would love to see more of that!

[@toupac3195]

Very nice! I just bought a 2018 Ridgeline on Friday. Its surprisingly nice and a joy

[@ghazzy118]

Hey Ryan! Thanks for this in-depth review of not only the bells and whistles, but the capabilities of the truck! It was awesome to see the pros and cons of how it performs in the extreme ends of what it's designed to do!

[@willhutton1516]

Even with tc off, I was in about 4 inches of unpacked snow on a gen 1. I floored it and almost no loss of grip. This thing excels at washboard and gravel roads. The snow grip is amazing even with all seasons.

[@jonathonsmith7694]

Hard to lose traction without any real power

[@willhutton1516]

@@jonathonsmith7694 does it need to be able to do a 4wd burn out to be fast? TFL did a test and the 2017 Ridgeline was the fastest of them. That and I don’t think that even the ram trx can do a burn out in 4x4.

[@BentonFrisse]

Love my Gen1 with All Terrain K02's!

[@juniorperez1165]

The fact that you got across that ice with those tires makes me want to buy one and upgrade it with mud terrain tires the AWD system looks pretty good

[@mikekolb238]

Mud tires are terrible on ice 🤦‍♂️

[@joepond769]

I absolutely enjoy how much fun you have when things get tricky or you’re goofing around and how you honestly try to get through your test courses. Way to go and keep up the great reviews!

[@wildwillyfox]

One of the better done reviews I have watched. Thanks Ryan.

[@rkalla]

13:20 very cool test getting in/out rut at angle. Appreciate the effort here!

[@Beyond014]

Ryan, thank you!! I have been waiting for this video for a long time!!

[@ssm59]

I had a 2006 ridge line. I put near 200k miles on it and did more than it’s share of Montana off-roading. With good tires it was Hands down it was the best snow and ice vehicle I have owned.

[@CodyU571]

New intro looks great!

[@alejandrohidalgo5734]

One of the best car reviews ive ever seen- definitely subscribed

[@powdertrax9742]

I just recently sold my beloved ‘05 Element and bought the ‘21 EX-L Passport, obviously the comforts of the Passport far outweigh the E, but with that being said I hate most of those comforts and have turned most of them off. I bought the PP to be my primary snowboarding/mtn biking vehicle, the clearance is nice, plenty of storage, great power and a new set of BFG All-Terrain tires makes a huge improvement not only in performance but also looks. Replacing those stupid 20” rims with 17” was also a must, but I was very surprised at how well the stock tires did in a recent 24” snowstorm, I thought for sure we were digging us out but with no slippage it pulled right out from a stop up a slight incline. With that being said one of those options I shutoff was the SNOW mode, as he said in the video you feel like you’re pushing your foot through the firewall making passing sketchy. On our next trip up I left it in normal mode and had no problems passing even at 50-60 mph, plus the throttle response felt normal.

[@briggsfarmer7796]

Also have to soon sell my beloved element. Torn between a bronco sport and Ridgeline. I do actually love and want the tech. Honda sense felt like almost autonomous driving

[@aaronchristianson]

I love my 2021 Ridgeline. It’s likely as much truck as a lot of people actually need - unless they tow over 5k lbs. Incredibly comfortable ride.

[@treydrier3169]

Great truck and perfect for most of us who do NOT take it off road. Lets be honest, if you want a true off road truck of this size the Jeep Gladiator can't be beat. The Ridgeline though still handles wet snowy roads (shall we call it 'real world') extremely well. And the ride is buttery smooth. Looks like a winner to me.

[@scottallison4615]

Just bought one I love it it is my 1st midsize truck and I love how it feels like an SUV comfort wise. It's not too high so my elderly mother can get into it.

[@mrchatterbox2844]

I have an 18 Ridgeline and I will agree that the tires could be better. After the second bad winter we had I replaced the tires with some Michelin Defenders and now the truck is perfect for me.

[@davidbrieske]

I’m really liking the new opening credits, great job!! The Ridgeline I think it would be a great around town vehicle, off road as you proved higher ground clearance and all terrain tires would be better suited. Another great job Ryan!

[@AlaskanSnowLeopard]

2 inch lift plus 31 inches all-terrain tires are all you need to get this truck to be able to tackle most off-road obstacle. Maybe not to the extreme off-roading situation but will do for the most parts, and will still drive almost like stock.

[@weetbix2083]

Wish this was available in the rest of the world. Perfect adventure/ family pickup. It amazes me how pickups are used around the world. It seems North America uses them for status or towing and not much loading, Most of the world uses them to load/deliveries as light commercial vehicles, using proper "cab forward trucks" for the heavy duty stuff. This fits the double cab buyer perfectly as a dual purpose family vehicle. I also love Honda products. Even a CRV version of this would be great.

[@liambassitt5919]

I forgot just how good this guys production quality is

[@ercmadden]

This thing really comes off as being the perfect dad van. Edit: I say this as a compliment.

[@TheCentralflorida]

And I still laugh at it because it's a joke to me. And I agree with you at the same time. I couldn't imagine taking that as a compliment. I'm sure many do though.

[@ercmadden]

@@TheCentralflorida Not my first pick of a truck, but I’d probably take the ridgeline over a mini van

[@BostonBunker]

Love your channel, I went from 6 years of owning a Tacoma, was really looking to get the 4-Runner (thanks to your review) but ended up with the 21 Ridgeline Black. Was torn between the Passport/4Runner and Ridgeline, but ended up needing a 'weekender bed' more than I need ground clearance (or back seats). Love of the new truck would be the ride handling and quietness, dual function tailgate (no more cleaning out the hinge!) and of course the trunk. Hate would be the head unit (good sound system in the Black just horrific response and performance- like, there is no way to shut off the Ridgeline and listen to the radio. You hit the Start button to turn off your truck and everything shuts off. To start the radio back up in 'accessory mode' takes about 40 seconds, I do not get it. Also, it is a bit wider than the Tacoma- not a big deal for full sized truck owners going down to the Ridgeline, but if you live in a city with tight parking/roads you will for sure feel it over a Tacoma or similar. Anyways, thanks for the great and entertaining reviews. You really helped me pick out my new truck and I still watch & learn from your vids.

[@johnpoteat9774]

I'm on my 3rd Ridgeline now, accessory mode only requires you to press the start/stop button once without pressing the brake pedal. Two taps will put it in On mode.

[@kdm704]

Yep, I’m commenting just to say the new intro and other graphics are looking nice!

[@janosm5252]

Great review. I just got my 2021 Ridgeline and love it. I do not off road a lot but need to get to some rough, hilly places without climbing over rocks.

[@YoutubeKenny]

oh shit! so much effort into this sir! thank you

[@jacobramirez3224]

What Honda is doing with the ridge line regarding the functionality of it reminds me of the 1st gen crv. Gotta love Honda’s creativity 🔥

[@krafique]

This new trail is pretty nice and scenic

[@glide1734]

what a terrific review .im looking at the 24 trailsport and i think this video has certainly helped with my decision .great job

[@jediguy634]

Ryan, love the new overlanding trail and intro video! By far the best car review channel on KZbin. I really hope Ford gives you a similarly equipped Maverick once those get launched. From the few spoilers leaked online it seems to be targeting a very similar market.

[@RLX12373]

This is really the best review for this car on KZbin

[@500sixtyfour]

In sport mode you can lock the gear with the paddle shifters. Holding in 1st or 2nd is nice for downhill control. Wonder if that would help.

[@Techridr]

That would only affect 2-wheels on the hill. Not good.

[@owequitit]

I-VTM4 engages the rear clutches when descending a hill, so it actually does work.

[@owequitit]

@Outdoor Layne actually, it works fine. I’ve done it.

[@doesntLookDruish]

I’ve had my 2021 RTL for 3 years and I absolutely love it. Great video on a great truck!

[@pablomoreno1999]

love the new intro sir!! great review as always i think it would sell wheel over here, specially with that trunk (i'm spanish)

[@stephenedwards9438]

Great review, I really like how you walked us through the different traction modes in real world conditions. Thanks!!

[@garylifosjoe]

I like what I have seen of the Honda Ridgeline.

[@saliston]

Just bought mine last week. So far i am loving it.

[@BernonCars]

Sick!! I was waiting for this too 😁

[@12B0692]

These stock tires are actually quite good. You can get a 1.5" lift and the BF Goodrich Trail tires reasonable enough to really elevate the trail performance of this truck. She's the best midsize truck for the vast majority of drivers.

[@aznguyen316]

I have a 1.5” leveling kit and “on road all terrain” tires. Similar to the BFG trail tire I’m getting the new cooper discoverer road+trail tire. I mountain bike and so far the lift and all seasons has taken me where I want to go except the weak sidewall on one of Firestone has been damaged so I’m replacing all tires finally

[@itsyaboiii.j4863]

Love the new intro

[@miket.4374]

I just test drove the 2022 Ridgeline and I have to say that I absolutely loved it. Perfect for what I need as a middle aged guy that’s not going off roading but needs to carry stuff sometimes

[@stog9821]

It actually did pretty well. Would probably do better with different tires. It’s kind of a 21st Century take on the old El Camino or Ranchero. I need to replace my Outback one of these days, but I’ll try the new Frontier first. The car like feel and the nifty trunk seems to be the main benefits of the Ridgeline. Gas mileage is about the same as other midsized pickups.

[@HerrP58]

El Caminos rocked!

[@IMP3TIGO]

23:13 Damn, even with all season tires the Ridgeline gets the job done. Great job Honda.

[@allenflores6373]

It is a very detailed and informative review. I suggest the manual mode and using engine brakes when doing hill descent. Should do just fine. Thanks!

[@ajmedeiros77]

So underrated, especially with a wider bed and higher payload than most all other mid sizers

[@shanet7511]

A comparison with a first gen ridgeline would be pretty cool. Like do a 2021 tahoe and a clean older $15k tahoe for comparison videos to see what's gotten better or worse and most importantly see if the newer gen has changed enough to make it worth spending the extra money.

[@Blacksunshine636]

I have a 2007 and I swear the AWD system isn't much different. in the snow section, I would have just put it in VTM4-Lock and kept my momentum up. Like he mentioned there, I think tires make the biggest difference in that situation.

[@danwooldridge8018]

Thanks for the great review! I've purchased a 2022 Ridgeline RTL-E and living in Texas; I really don't often need tremendous AWD performance. However, having it is a nice feature in case we get caught in some cold, snowy weather when visiting family up north. It is a great daily driver with a very comfortable ride, for a truck, that many friends and family have commented on when riding with me. We plan on using is as our primary traveling vehicle. I love the trunk in the bed and with a tonneau cover, the bed is very secure. I'm a very happy owner and expect to be driving my Ridgeline for a very long time.

[@autonewstv86]

Better looking than the 1st gen. Decent truck. Thank you for everything !

[@frankpetet6443]

@Deport ALL Trump Voters real intelligent comment

[@nightryder21]

@@frankpetet6443 sounds like a bot.

[@johnsora2425]

My dad is looking at new mid size trucks at just under 30k. Debating base model steel wheel 4x4 or Fx2 Ranger. Frontier does not have safety features and tacoma is several $K more. Would LOVE to see a "Do you really need 4 wheel drive?" Video. I would bet the 2wd AT tires with rear locker will take you 90%+ of the places the all season tire 4x4 would with more amenities at a lower price. You also get better mpg and higher payload. A ranger Fx2 or tacoma TRD Off Road 2wd would be the perfect test. Tests of the absolute cheapest New model would be cool too. Keep up the great content!

[@flashg67]

Watching this review, confirmed that I made the right choice on my 2021 Ridgeline Sport. I have the same truck with the HPD package, in red. I had heated seats added to it before I took delivery. Since I have gotten it, I added Honda running boards, got a seat cover for the back seat.(I have a dog) and installed Weathertech Floor Liners. I also put in a under seat tray. The vehicle is eligible for the Section 179 ( Business Equipment) tax deduction. I’m part owner of a small family business, of 3 Shell convenience stores with each store having an attached laundromat, along with a self serve car wash. The in-bed trunk is handy for my tool box, and a spare washing machine, dryer and gasoline dispenser parts. The in-bed trunk saved me from have to buy a camper cover, or bed mounted tool box. It has been a wonderful utility vehicle so far. I do wish they would offer a Grey cloth interior on the Sports.

[@allanguy2522]

heated seats are not standard in the US ? that is strange it's standard along with heated leather steering wheel and power seats in the base sport in Canada and it's 37240.00 US Honda should have made this stuff standard in the northern states at least

[@flashg67]

@@allanguy2522 If I had went with the RTL or RTL-E or the Black Edition it would have been standard. When I was test driving it, I had remarked to the salesman that I wished it had heated seats, and he said that they had a local trim shop that could put them in. So I decided to have it done before I took delivery.

[@entertained...]

the ridgeline will always have a stigma because there are a lot of fools out there who make comments like "it's not a truck". (see comments below.) i don't need my vehicle to project an image and i find the ridgeline appealing for a lot of reasons; i'll be getting a CPO one in a couple of years. great review ryan and team! keep up the great work!

[@GearheadStew]

I'd take one of these in a heartbeat! Really heard nothing but good things about the Ridgeline, even the old first gens.

[@robertrogers2990]

I had a 2006 first gen. I have owned f150s, Chevy full and s10, Tacoma, and ranger. The ridgeline never left me stranded except one time I ran out of gas. Probably one of the best vehicles I have ever owned. I hated to get rid of it. Yes, people will make fun of you for buying it, but buy smart not popular.

[@FoYo1005]

I am really enjoying these segments on the Washington Overland trail.

[@ThisIsMrJ13]

Truck I NEED for the family, not necessarily what I WANT. Haha

[@pino_7428]

Bought the 2021 RTL because I don’t do off road, there is no snow in Puerto Rico and my boat is a 20 footer Boston Whaler that weights about 3,200 pounds. This is my daily drive vehicle and is super confortable and spacious so far I’m happy with my Ridgeline. By the way I’m a Toyota guy who owns a 4 Runner and obviously I wanted to buy a Tacoma but after a quick test drive it was a no for me.

[@der60er]

Like the new intro 👍🏻greets from germany

[@gregorymckoy3179]

Good video review! I just wish they had made it where you could lock the rear differential like the earlier models. The main thing that has always bugged me with Honda is the lack of a skid plate for at least the oil pan and transmission pan. The AWD is great but, a hole in either pan will leave you stranded. I went from a 2001 Toyota Tacoma 4X4 Access Cab to a 2013 Honda Pilot due to the family growing. I loved my Taco but, needed the extra room. The AWD system in the Pilot has surprised me a few times in areas that were very questionable on whether I would get out without being pulled out. The Pilot and Ridgeline are more comfortable daily driving with the full independent suspension.

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

Hello Ryan 👋! Thanks for making the video about iVTM4 / SH-AWD, it was one of the videos that convinced me Hondas system is currently the best AWD system. I previously owned 2 Subarus and I can confirm, Hondas system is waaaaay more capable. Not only that but the 20:1 crawl ratio is upper echelon. I have found that these mid size Hondas are the missing link between Traditional AWD and 4WDs. As you have discovered, Sand mode is the mosf capable mode. It simulates a rear locking differential similar to the Bronco sport you reviewed. I have completed the Fins N Things trail in Moab Utah in my Passport with a 3.5” Traxda lift and 32.1” Falken Wildpeak AT3Ws. So, if I’m correct, the only AWDs that have completed this trail is Honda and the Jeep Trailhawk crossovers. They share the same ZF9 transmission and all have a 20:1 crawl ratio. I love hour reviews Ryan! I can’t blame you for not knowing about this stuff because Honda doesn’t advertise it, but if you look at the specs, they point towards one of the most capable AWD vehicles out there.

[@tallll70]

Just keep in mind Bronco Sport Twin clutch is similar system and they each have different advantages, Bronco can manually close center and rear clutches, so you not waiting for slip if trouble is obviously a head, ivtm4/sh-awd don't have that (I wish it would), but it can do the 70% power to the back and it's using it for steering enhancement which Bronco can't do.... so really the Bronco is suitable more for off road, while Honda has superior awd for wet snowy roads

[@cliffh8486]

I agree I own the 18 ridgeline. The Honda AWD is truly amazing

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

@@tallll70 sand mode does a 30 front /70 rear with a 50/50 simulated lock. Mud mode is 40/60. Normal mode is torque vectoring and reactive.

[@WhiteSubie]

Even my old Honda Elements AWD has got me places a Subarus wouldn't go. I love Hondas AWD.

[@cliffh8486]

@@JonDZ_Adventuring nice!!! where did u read that or get that info from? I would like to read about it myself!

[@TheK7aloha]

Excellent review and video! Thank you! Aloha from Colorado!

[@GiantRiderRob]

Nice trail and challenges for a light truck. Definitely would throw some AT's on or some winter AT's and try some of that. MIght pick one of these up this summer/fall.

[@Guzzzr]

nice video.. i just got a 2024 Ridgeline Black Edition. i had a 2019 Grand Cherokee LImited 4x4. the GC is a great SUV but the reality is i never did much serious off roading. the Ridgeline has great versatility. its peppy, smooth, quiet and comfortable.. i was looking at the 2023 RTLE but the updates in the 2024 BE are well worth the wait... it is also suprisingly bigger than i thougth it was going to be..

[@theschiznit8777]

Nothing like extra decals to help you go off road.

[@drivingsports]

+10Hp for each decal.

[@Gia_7604]

Try on road then 🎉

[@BentonFrisse]

Best review I've seen yet!

[@malifestro3319]

That AWD system is actually really good looking at that. If they put that in a vehicle with real off-road capabilities there would a lot of fans I suspect.

[@jessebutler9352]

It would be really cool to see a version with a two inch lift, no air dam, some armour and better tires. They don’t have to go full trd pro but something like a trd off road would be great.

[@nightryder21]

@@jessebutler9352 Jon dz Adventuring on KZbin. Honda Passport with a 3.5" lift, 32"tires all terrains, and full underbody protection. He just finished Moab... Barely.

[@jcort21]

I got 2022 , so far so good. Very comfortable , its fun to drive it.

[@dkpt1997]

I was impressed with the AWD system its really good tackling that terrain and snow. I would say it will be so much better with proper tires and it sucks to have that low ground clearance but its not and off road truck so it does not need to have one.

[@jakedenis4579]

Honda makes Lifting ridgelines super easy

[@squirreldog7619]

I really liked the Ice Hill Climb starting at 19:20. This is really the only reason that I own a 4 wheel drive Tacoma. We have a cabin in northern Michigan that has been in the family for generations. In the 1970's they used to drive back in with rear wheel drive cars and and pickups. If it happened to snow more than about 3 inches, the vehicle was either A. stuck there until spring or B. pulled out with a log skidder at considerable expense. My gen 1 Tacoma is phenomenal until the snow gets really deep, but.....the six hour highway ride to get the cabin is pure hell. The truck rides, well, like a truck. The Ridgeline looks like it would be a great (comfortable) highway runner and still have half a chance at getting back out the main road before the snow gets too deep.

[@NauticaloneEd]

Nice enough, though I’m not a fan of the push button shift lever!

[@tracy2928]

I'm currently shopping for a midsize truck. I live in the city (Pacific Northwest), but I go camping every chance I get during the summer months. I don't need real offroad chops, just enough to handle fire roads and some mild trail. I also need it to handle ice and snow, but not really more than 6 inches, any more than that and I'd just stay home. I would LIKE offroad chops, but if am honest with myself, the Ridgeline checks all the boxes I really need. What was in this video would likely be the limits of what I'd do. Being %90 daily driver, comfort and handling are important. I test drove a Canyon AT4 and liked it, still need to test the Ranger. And the Taco is out of it. I drove one. Resell is great and all, but If I can't drive it, it's useless. Thanks for the video, exactly what I was looking for.

[@tracy2928]

*camping with CRF250l in the back

[@ete5706]

I love this channel! Please provide a list of fun trails around western WA? 🙏

[@DustyCowdog]

Throw a 3 inch lift kit on that and you are golden.... I've taken lesser vehicles on worse terrain... I dig this. Some of the issues in these videos are the drivers. Just saying... I like your video, though. Don't take my comments the wrong way! Cheers!

[@STEWDEE]

Yep. A nice 3 inch lift is available. Throw on some Nitto terra grapplers...👍

[@Marbind]

Now do the off-road tests with a decent a/t tire.

[@bdlog6092]

Great informative review. Been thinking outside the box for my elderly dad’s next farm truck.

[@rustlesee]

For $40k you can get a pretty loaded Ranger or Tacoma. That do come with nice upgrades that you kept dismissing as this was “entry level”. I’m all for a unibody truck, I think they’d work great for many people. But the pricing is a bit off to compete with the other midsized trucks.

[@ALMX5DP]

I think the point is that this Ridgeline doesnt ride or act like a truck when you dont want it to. If you need the capability, a BoF is great, but for most all they need is a good daily driver with a touch of extra utlity. Those trucks might be the same price, but lack when it comes to what the Ridgeline does best.

[@nightryder21]

Ridgeline before destination and other stuff is $36k and the Tacoma that has the V6 and 4wd is close to $34. Not far off for better interior and driving tech.

[@squidproquo2241]

This is the best all around midsize truck. You will lose comfort with Tacoma and Ranger significantly, while with Ridgeline you will not lose much off road capability in comparison.

[@fredmoss4540]

Ridgeline ride and handling can beat or match some 3 row Crossover SUVs Driving dynamics vs other pickup trucks. Some reviewers even say they like Ridgeline suspension set-up better than Pilot. The Tacoma and Ranger Colorado Frontier cabins space is much smaller and cramped. Five adults depending on size can fit into Ridgeline with comfort. The others will really be tight. Ridgeline bed is wider and you can lay flat 4X8 sheets of plywood or drywall. Something other midsized trucks can't do.

[@y2rhf]

@@fredmoss4540 because the Ridgeline it's not a truck period! It's the least sell truck. You can get 4x8 in the Ridgeline that the rest of the truck can't but you have no ground clearance and offroad capability. The Ridgeline also is not 4x4, it's awd. It also cannot tow as much as the rest of midsize trucks.

[@sworks7124]

I loved my two Ridgelines, I wish I still had one. I mistakingly switched to a Tacoma and it was the dumbest thing I have done. I sold the Tacoma.

[@miguelpenela8579]

Hi from Portugal. Unfortunately we don't have that truck. Just Ranger, Hilux, L200, Mazda BT-50 and Isuzu d-max. Would love a Honda truck. Continue the good work.👍

[@blueryxfalls7949]

In countrys outside the US, diesels are the way to go. And Honda doesn't offer a diesel on this truck

[@miguelpenela8579]

@@blueryxfalls7949 diesel isn't the way to go anymore. The cost is to big because of the CO2 restritions In Europeu. Honda as good diesel engine. Don't really now the size of the pick up,. But Honda as small engine for sure. In Portugal pick Ups are selling again.

[@blueryxfalls7949]

@@miguelpenela8579 in pickups diesel are the norm outside the us. Good gas millage in the US is not considered good enough gas millage in Europe. A gas v6 NA is not something you're going to see in Euro

[@ewan_mclean]

I’m not a fan of the Ridgeline but I seriously respect Honda for putting it out there. A unibody FWD/AWD with all independent suspension, in a market full of true trucks. And from what I know, everyone who buys one likes it. And they’re super reliable too. I’ll still refer to it as a sawed-off minivan but I respect it for what it is. And I’m glad they re-did the face, it was ugly as hell previously.

[@anthonydurling4093]

This is the second review of this pickup I have seen. I am now convinced I won't buy this vehicle. Thanks for the review. I own two Hondas right now.

[@discoveror9576]

a MOST thorough Review! Thanks - for the illustrative Great job.

[@crsantin]

Really nice refresh. Much more attractive truck now. I’d take this over a Ranger or a Tacoma. I ended up with a full sized pickup but these are capable vehicles.

[@terrynichol577]

😂😂😂😂😂

[@grahamrothphotography]

Looks like they fixed the tranny overheating issue when doing slow offroad with the newer ridgelines, I have a 2013 Ridgeline and love it!! Thx for the awesome video!!

[@rondail5675]

That 'Sport' model is easily $5k too much! Best riding truck(2019 RTL-E owner). Waiting to see refreshes in 2022 Ranger, Colorado, and Canyon. Also new 2022 Maverick, Santa Cruz, and Frontier, coming.

[@chooseymomschoose]

Yeah, they are taking this piss right now (thanks global supply chain collapse!). This is a great vehicle, but not for the price they are asking.

[@nightryder21]

What truck with standard 4wd or AWD that comes with close to 300hp comes in at $31k?

[@jstrig]

@@nightryder21 You can get a Ford Ranger XL 4x4 with 270 hp 310 lb-ft of torque, 1600 lb payload capacity, and 7500 lb towing capacity for less than $31k

[@ghostlegit]

@@nightryder21 u can get a barely used frontier with 4x4 and Bluetooth and loaded up for 34 k

[@mattdwyer1761]

@@jstrig the ranger XL interior is a joke compared to even the base ridgeline. You have to get an XLT to be fair and in 4 door 4x4 they're very similarly priced.

[@pstaehlin]

One thing that I appreciate you doing is mentioning your height while sitting in the back seat. Thank you!

[@bennyang8049]

Has the 9-speed transmission been fixed? I read alot of problems in owners forums from 2018 through 2020.

[@mikevarela705]

Wasn’t it the 7 speed that had problems..? I believe this 9 speed transmission is new for this model year..?

[@bennyang8049]

@@mikevarela705 the forums had problems with the Pilot, Oddyssey, and Ridgeline 9 speed. That is why honda has their own 10 speed now

[@blueryxfalls7949]

Yeah 9 speed ZF is a hit or miss.

[@aj.gutierrez]

For the steeper downhill driving, you should have tried shifting into Sport mode. I have the 1st Gen Ridgeline, and shifting into D3 obviously helps control your speed a bit better when I go down hills. I have an Accord with the new Sport mode, and when I put it into that mode for hills (on roads, of course), it controls my speed better when I go down a hill so I don't have to press the brakes as often or as long. For the terrain you were tackling, I am sure that still would have been difficult, as you mentioned the Ridgeline is not intended for serious off-roading. I live in the desert, so for normal dirt roads, even my older version of the Ridgeline does well on them, even during inclement weather conditions or on soft sand. Although, the 1st Gen does have a bit more clearance than the current model. I am just glad they gave the Ridgeline back some individuality in it's looks again. Granted it is based on the Pilot, I have always liked it's quirky looks. When they brought it back looking exactly like the Pilot, I was disappointed. Now, it looks a bit more unique again. Great review!