2025 Honda Ridgeline RTL /4 Reasons it's Better :Full Specs &Test Drive

[@AllenMurphy-le8sw]

Just bought a 2025 last week I like it the most amazing cars I’ve driven and I have two Mercedes thanks for your video watching all the new videos on the Ridgeline

[@HawkeyeRides]

That’s awesome congratulations Allen

[@Zepplin104]

I have a 2011 Honda Ridgeline; I love it, it still runs great, it is solid. But after watching your video, I would really like a 2025 Ridgeline. The feature my truck does not have; that the new trucks do have, is a locking tailgate. Overall, great truck. I truly love all Honda production vehicles. Great engineering!

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@Zepplin104 they are awesome thanks for sharing

[@shanerogers787]

Honda needs to totally redesign the ridgeline like they did with the passport.

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@shanerogers787 they did the same center update inside as the passport and updated the grill but Honda needs a full redesign instead of a few little updates

[@davidcrocker4276]

I bought a 2017 Ridgeline and I think it is a good daily driver truck. It has a great ride and it has some nice features. Now jump forward EIGHT YEARS to the 2025 Ridgeline. I've given it a look because I want a new truck. But there's not a lot of difference between my 2017 Ridgeline and the 2025 Ridgeline. Sure they put in new transmission, but not much else. After EIGHT YEARS they have a stale design in bad need of an update. Come on Honda, get your shit together and freshen up this truck!

[@HawkeyeRides]

You have some good points David

[@jessethompson3090]

Agreed!

[@itshadouken]

I also have a 2017 and every year I’m like maybe this is actually an update! Nope. Slightly bigger screen and body angles - that’s it.

[@fleuger99]

Nice review! I am picking up my 2025 white on Grey RTL this coming Saturday. I was very pleasantly surprised by the ride and engine when I test drove it. It is smooth and quiet and the naturally aspirated V6 is sweet. It sounds great and pulls well, as well. This will be my first truck and it meets my needs perfectly. I love the rear seats that fold up, throw some blankets down there and its the perfect size for my medium size dog to hang out.

[@HawkeyeRides]

Congrats and thanks for sharing 👍

[@Brian_Life]

I was going to buy one soon. What price did you negotiate and pay?

[@fleuger99]

@@Brian_Life I was able to get $4K off MSRP and the dealer didn't add a lot of extra crap, just wheel locks and tinted windows, the latter I need being in Texas.

[@Brian_Life]

​@@fleuger99Thanks. Did they offer $4k off initially, or did you have to negotiate that?

[@fleuger99]

@@Brian_Life They offered $3K as they knew I was shopping several dealers in three cities within 175 miles of me. I committed to buy from them as they had exactly color combo I wanted if they could do better and they came back with $4K which I accepted and they took a $500 deposit to hold the Ridgeline for me. Let me also add that they had 58 Ridgelines and I targeted larger dealers with lots of inventory as I figured they'd be more motivated to sell. Good luck with yours.

[@andraeneal9134]

i have a 21 honda ridgeline RTL , i luv it, still runs like new!!

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@andraeneal9134 that’s awesome thanks for sharing

[@danjoe22]

Good review and I applaud the fact that you mention and describe the vcm cylinder deactivation system. Unfortunately, vcm is a disaster which for some reason is still offered by Honda. It is good that the Ridgeline still has a naturally aspirated engine instead of a turbo but the vcm is why I have not traded in my 2006 Ridgeline, which I still love. VCM bit me with two spark plug misfires on my 2010 Honda Accord v6. I have since bypassed the system with the vcm muzzler2 and the car performs so much better with only the loss of 2 mpg. Why Honda continues to chase its tail with this system baffles me. Maybe it is better now than then but why bother?

[@HawkeyeRides]

I agree it’s not a saving and nothing that helps with longevity.

[@Blueskies-c7u]

Is there a way to shut off the deactivation?

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@Blueskies-c7u yes but it could void the warranty

[@Lov17213]

Turn the engine off.

[@MegaGuitarpicker]

2 years ago I did it to a Pilot. Not a big issue. I made it so it can be switched back before taking it to Honda or the new buyer. Found a video on YT. All that stupid system does is wear out the starter and drain the battery. A tree hugger came up with it.

[@jameswalsh6131]

Great review Anthony. You know this would be my pick for sure if I needed a pickup. I don't like the cylinder deactivation though. Just something to potentially break and it does not seem like it does a lot for the MPGs. I don't think though that Honda would use it unless it would be problematic. 85 here today and 38 this morning and yes it was chilly! That is some nice weather you're having. How are things today on your side? I'm still getting some political emails but nothing like pre-election. What time will you guys be doing the livestream? I will try to make it for sure. Hope all is well and happy Friday Anthony

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@jameswalsh6131 thank you James. I agree it’s a great truck and I’m glade it’s still a v6 but the cylinder cut off isn’t my fav. That sounds chilly, I didn’t think it would drop that quick for you. Here was nice mid 80s for the most part and while I am typing I had one spam about the water district lol. I guess the over paid for adds 😂. We are keeping it at 11am est this week. I didn’t get a chance to make the announcement this week. It was a very busy week, Mercedes, Audi, VW and BMW. Which I’m so excited to bring these new vehicles to the channel. I hope to see you tomorrow James happy Friday

[@jameswalsh6131]

@@HawkeyeRides It get's really cool here in the night generally once Summer is done and I love it 😁That's nice weather for you guys for sure. I'll try to catch you guys life but I do know myself! It sounds like will have some great videos coming along..all my favorites! Did you ever review the Ioniq 5 N? I saw one on MT last night and it was so amazing. Have a great night Anthony

[@HawkeyeRides]

@ I like cooler weather after these hot summers but what am I kidding lol it’s hot like 8-9 months out of the year 🥹. When the winter comes for the 3-4 months it is a nice change. This week was really exciting and I am working with my team for the N. They had it but we couldn’t find the keys. Last time I had this happen a sales guy took them and I was running after him all day. Unfortunately that vehicle XB7 ended up selling but we got the B8 Bimmer in its place. Have a great night James

[@hansschotterradler3772]

Great reviev, I don't like the configuration. Id prefer a supercab with a longer trick bed as I dont need a rear seat. Can this short be even hold a 29er mountain bike without the front wheel removed??

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@hansschotterradler3772 thanks and it can hold it

[@NorthernMike]

Absolutely. I put 2 mountain bikes in my rear seat area. I have a 2024 RTL.

[@jjj1981jj]

They need to redo the front end to make it not look like a van/SUV. Square it off and make it look tougher. It’s been keeping it from looking like a truck.

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@jjj1981jj it would look more rugged that way

[@Combat556]

Does the Ridgeline have low speed follow?

[@HawkeyeRides]

Yes

[@RandallDenison]

The Ridgeline and odyssey are the same weight with the same engine. Why the odyssey gets 28mpg and the Ridgeline 24mpg?

[@HawkeyeRides]

Fwd for the Odyssey, awd for the Ridgeline

[@tomhockman6267]

besides AWD affecting Ridgeline mileage, the Odyssey is more aerodynamic compared to open bed of Ridgeline. With a tonneau cover, you will get improved highway mileage. I've gotten up to 29 mpg on the highway with Ridgeline with no cargo or trailer weight with OEM tonneau cover.

[@batfury9319]

Do away with the push button gear selector and I might consider this truck. For now I would rather get the Nissan Frontier King cab.

[@HawkeyeRides]

I agree, I'm not a big fan of the push button gear selector either

[@robertbutler8004]

I just watched a video on the Ridgeline 2025 they said it has a 10-speed transmission.

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@robertbutler8004 the full msrp is with in the first 2-15 seconds if you need to fact check me 🤷‍♂️ Or maybe do your own checking before questioning? You know what I’ll make it even easier for you. Honda specs: automobiles.honda.com/ridgeline#trims-specs

[@hoppy6663]

Yes vcm causes oil consumption , failed spark plugs! If Honda wants 3 cylinder engine then build one , I want a V6 with all 6 cylinders firing all the time !

[@HawkeyeRides]

I agree

[@bizboomer]

Is it still an interference valve train engine?

[@HawkeyeRides]

Yes

[@bradleyfranklin3468]

Cant believe they havent changed the body style.....cmon honda

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@bradleyfranklin3468 Nissan took over ten years to change the design so it’s not uncommon

[@bervotten]

My 22 outback is an everyday vehicle that’s standard with 8.7” of clearance. My old 06 ridgeline had 8.2” 7.6” of clearance is unacceptable

[@HawkeyeRides]

It should be at least 8 inch since it’s a truck

[@hoppy6663]

No Honda for me the vcm is a deal breaker!

[@HawkeyeRides]

To each its own and nothing wrong with that

[@magley64]

I'm leasing a 23 RTL and it totally sucks.

[@HawkeyeRides]

Thanks for sharing your insight

[@mizjia]

I bought a 2025 Ridgeline and it’s awesome!

[@Bogeygolfer-g3t]

What don't you like about it? Are you having issues?

[@magley64]

@@Bogeygolfer-g3t My absolute biggest complaint is the infotainment system: the sound quality is only decent at very low volume, the android auto integration is sloppy and haphazard, the hardware (and software) is severely outdated for a "new" truck, it's laggy and buggy, and does whatever it wants. It's really bad. If that were magically fixed, I'd probably like it a lot more, but there are other issues... All of the drivers aid systems are either so bad as to be unusable, or if they do work, bad enough to be annoying. I'm talking LKAS, CMBS, ACC, LDWS, auto high beams, etc... They don't work as advertised, they suck. Behind that, it's a snooze fest to drive. I didn't expect a race car, but it's way way slower than what I was used to, even for similar engine displacement, weight, and drivetrain, it's yawn-inspiring at best. The least of my complaints is the paint, it's riddled with orange peel, and it is the most boring color imaginable. Sure, I could do a 2 stage paint correction and get rid of the orange peels everywhere, or wrap it something more exciting, but it's a lease and not worth the time or effort. Trunk and tailgate are kinda cool, but those don't come close to making up for the shortcomings.

[@lulo4477]

My Thoughts on Honda’s Current State: Lately, I’ve noticed that Honda seems to lack personality and innovation in their designs. Their cars feel boring, repetitive, and uninspired, with little change or excitement. Compared to brands like Hyundai, Kia, and Toyota, Honda’s approach comes across as lazy and outdated, both inside and out. Here’s where they’re falling short: 1. No evolution in design - Honda refuses to take risks, sticking to the same tired look. 2. Dull interiors - While functional, they lack the premium feel and modern appeal seen in competitors. 3. Falling behind the competition - Other brands are pushing boundaries with bold, striking designs and cutting-edge technology. What Honda needs to do: • Add character and personality to their cars with bold, dynamic designs. • Prioritize innovation, especially in electric vehicle platforms. • Upgrade interiors with better materials and a more sophisticated look. • Create models that excite and stand out, not just function. Honda still delivers on reliability, but it’s time for them to wake up and reinvent themselves to stay relevant in today’s market.

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@lulo4477 thanks for the info

[@ManofSteel007]

If it ain't broke don't fix it

[@scooter433]

Not impressed at all.

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@scooter433 to each its own and nothing wrong with that

[@scooter433]

I've had Honda's since 93. Honda's problem is that they do not do too many changes and up there price's. I have a 2019 Ridgeline, and it has had its share of problems. Like your videos, though.