Honda Ridgeline vs Hyundai Santa Cruz - Comparing Size, Space, Power, Towing, Off-Road & More!

[@markflaugh2293]

I traded a Chevy 1500 for a Ridgeline over a year ago. Still use it as i did my full size chevy and it has been great. Tows everything i need (all under 5000lbs) and have hauled everything i needed including a 4 wheeler in the bed numerous times. Averages around 22mpg too.

[@wallacebryant4908]

Traded a 13 Silverado Z71 and got a 17 ridgeline Black Edition love it. The 5.3 used 1qt oil every 1500. I was so disappointed in the Silverado frame rust interior parts breaking ball joints replaced at 80,000 miles .I do the same types of things with the ridgeline and I have not had a single problem with it replaced the brakes for the first time at 105,000 miles. If I really needed a full size truck I would have one the ridgeline can't do everything.

[@wallacebryant4908]

@U Betcha Check out Nokian Rotiiva AT All weather I put 255-60r18 on my 17 Black Edition great tire.

[@poplaurentiu4148]

Apparently you could do same thing with this newer Santa Cruz.. but i wait for the Rivian R1T because i want something for a bigger towing, off-road ready, clean ev

[@UncleGermrod]

Came over to my Ridgeline last week from a 2020 tacoma. Great truck but it was my only vehicle and the Honda is a much better truck to live with while offering pretty much all the same utility of the Tacoma. Absolutely love the thing. These trucks are everything most people would realistically need. I have to say I really don’t love the look of the Santa Cruz. But it seems like a great little truck and I deff wish I had some of the tech features it includes, like the digital gauge cluster.

[@chrislavigne2221]

I have owned a 2007 ridgeline since February 2008. Daily driver the whole time and currently has 487,000km on it with original drivetrain. The most expensive repair it has ever needed was the AC system and that was only in the last 2 years after more than a decade of problem free use. I pick up my new 2022 black edition on Monday. The list of vehicles (let alone trucks) that can do this could be counted on one hand and I'd be shocked if the hyundia was one of them.

[@bretswanson3016]

487,000km! Wow, congratulations! That’s why you buy a Honda!

[@rodneydecormier1504]

Actually check out consumer reports. Hyundai quality rating is very, very good.

[@slchang01]

1996 3L V6 Nissan Quest 300,000 miles...a truck frame based mini van, just saying.

[@SPL]

Having come from a Nissan Frontier and driven a Ford F150 off and on and owning a truck for 15 years - I decided to purchase the Ridgeline 6 months ago. It has got to be the most comfortable truck and maybe ranked as one of the most comfortable vehicles out there in the $40,000 range. Gonna be tough to knock the Ridgeline off the top spot.

[@MT-xl8jy]

Turn in your man card

[@chester4311]

@@MT-xl8jy A large truck does not a man make, just like your gun does not make you a man.. Fool, or were you just trolling?

[@cbruffin121]

What year do you have, and does your hood bounce like my 2019 ridgeline? I swear that thing has 2 inches of travel on a windy day.

[@leewhois]

@@cbruffin121 I had a 2019 Black Edition and i did NOT have a hood problem....I sold it 3 months ago and got more than i paid for it because of the truck shortage and i am upgrading it to the 2022 model for the duel exhaust Pipes. I've had pickups before but none beat that honda Ridgeline. Also, i got many stares with the Black Bull Bar in the front. The 110v in the bed and speaker system back there and all wheel drive made it a "made for Beach" party vehicle. Great truck!!!

[@ufade2]

@@MT-xl8jy Some peoples egos aren't tied to thier vehicles....

[@nicholassmith7048]

And not only is the Ridgeline's trunk bigger but easier to access because the tailgate can also swing to the side.

[@anthonygreco12]

I agree Why didn't they show that plus how many bags of groceries can the Santa Cruz trunk hold. My Ridgeline is my 4 wheel swiss army knife it does everything I need out of 1 vehicle

[@fredmoss4540]

@@anthonygreco12 Doesn't look like it can hold any groceries inside in-bed compartment. This would be paperbags full of groceries standing up. That tonneau cover is an option you would need to buy it to make this vehicle practical.

[@MT-xl8jy]

If u r a girl test These r a joke

[@donteller46]

@@MT-xl8jy Toxic masculinity anyone... Trying to make up for something very small.

[@schizo007jay]

@@MT-xl8jy tsss! trying to be cool..more talk coz you can't even afford an Aveo 🤷🤦‍♂️

[@macsterguy]

I bought the Hyundai Santa Cruz limited in that beautiful blue color and I absolutely love it

[@keithwillis2116]

You guys do the best truck reviews! I own a 2021 Ridgeline Black Edition and it is the best truck I have ever owned and I have had 4 before this from other brands. Honda has the absolute best AWD system.

[@jcbever1511]

I sat in both the Ridgeline and the Santa Cruz at the LA Auto show this year. The Ridgeline was clearly more comfortable to me and I didn't hit my head on the roofline when getting in. I also liked how it felt more roomy inside. I bought a 2021 Ridgeline a couple weeks ago with 3" lift kit installed and it's been great!

[@legion1630]

was the installed from factory

[@jcbever1511]

@@legion1630 Yes, it was a Honda factory lift kit (not aftermarket). I believe the dealership installed the kit. They also powder-coated the tire rims black (they were originally gold), and put on beefier off-road tires. This really enhanced the overall look of the truck.

[@budgerber901]

Life expectancy of Honda far exceeds that of any thing turbocharged. Hyundai, Ford etc.🙏

[@nighthawkadventure]

You said it bud Honda no contest we need to think about longevity. Also it holds its value for re-sale.

[@seoulglo1999]

But Hyundai come's with the 10 year/100,000 power train warranty. I would still take the Honda though...

[@WhiteSubie]

I'm definitely biased towards Honda don't get me wrong, but I've been looking forward to the Santa Cruz. After seeing them perform though I would still choose the Ridgeline.

[@olugbengaogunleye9540]

Same here. I will go for the ridgeline any day. They have been bold with what they have done for a while now. Seems to me the Santa cruise just copied most of what they could.

[@Moonjeong83]

We ordered a Santa Cruz and after test driving the ridgeline back to back, we bought the Honda. Superior all around… felt the SC was a toy next to a very useful Honda.

[@ciello___8307]

the santa cruz is just in a smaller segment

[@270eman]

Hyundai reliability is very sus indeed

[@turnpike9680]

Same, but I can't say I'm not impressed with the Santa Cruz.

[@Projectprohonda2009]

I’ll get the Ridgeline because their Honda motors gonna last longer than the turbo Both look like great trucks

[@cbruffin121]

I have a 2019 ridgeline black edition and I'm done with honda. My hood bounces when driving an insane amount. There's a recall on it, and I've taken it like 3 times but it still does it. The recall apparently just prevents hood from flying open, but doesn't actually stop the bounce. Disgusting lack of quality control. I think Honda got too comfortable with their quality reputation and started slacking.

[@Pizznasty70]

@@cbruffin121 is it everyday? Or just on windy days. I have a 2019 civic that the hood on windy days moves as well as on single lane highways it does as well when coming up to a semi

[@270eman]

@@cbruffin121 Dude just zip tie or something lmao

[@speedomars]

You do know the Hyundai has a 10 year on the drivetrain etc, right?

[@MrKentaroMotoPI]

Need to change the timing belt by 60-100k miles on the Honda. Should also change the water pump and idler pulleys. Expensive job. Of course, the timing chain cover can leak, which can be very difficult to repair in the vehicle. Generally, V-6 engines have higher maintenance costs that I-4's. The turbocharger is easy to change, but expensive if you buy a new one.

[@Idahoridge]

Just picked up a 23 RTL. Love this thing. Roomy inside, super quiet, tows enough for me, AWD system is great, doesn't drive like a truck, run forever NA V6... it just feels right. Although I'm sure the Santa Cruz is a fine vehicle, it just seems a little too small... for me anyway. And the stressed out 4 cyl Turbo -while it may have more pep than the Ridgeline, there's no way it lasts as long as the tried and true Honda V6. Different strokes for different folks I guess....Honda all the way for me.

[@woodrowdixon1543]

Just bought a Santa Cruz a few weeks ago. It's a great ride. Don't need it for towing, but has come in handy at DIY stores for large home project hauling. And is as easy to park in downtown lots as my old Sonata.

[@stuffhappens5681]

It’s perfect for what you describe. I know, I bought a SC too.

[@gregsmith8967]

I work at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama, building the engines for the 4 vehicles we build, Santa Cruz included. I'm proud of the product that Hyundai sells

[@nikotal.4282]

I tested both of them, I thought SC has a price advantage, but if you compare RL RTL/EX-L(Canada) with the top trim SC, RL has an advantage in each and every category except acceleration, which I didn't like anyways as it felt like a sports car rather than something as convenient and smooth as RL. Even mpg was way better on RL. My ski and an inflatable boat couldn't fit into SC. SC was also surprisingly wobbly on the road, probably because of the higher ground clearance and shorter wheelbase, it reminded me 4Runner. Inside it felt very small, with no armrest on the back, no power back window, no heated back seats. RL is just much better all around, and we haven't started talking about long term reliability, RL has been around since 2017, and already fixed many problems, I joined the SC forum and asked some people about SC reliability, and even the owners are scary about the perspective of owning it long term. You can search for SC 2.5T problems on the internet, seems like there are many of them that Hyundai hasn't addressed. Anyways I ordered RL after testing each compact and midsize truck/pickup available on the market. Nothing comes even close to RL. Initially, I wanted Tacoma, but this thing was just so uncomfortable. I really wanted Offroad capability, but if I chose the comfort on the day-to-day vs offroad, comfort wins 100%. RL is probably the best truck available on the market right now unless you need exceptional towing capacity or exceptional offroad capacity, both of those options are better executed by other trucks(Tundra/F-150/Wrangler/Bronco). But RL is the sweet spot in between that would provide 80% of everything in one machine. SC is not bad, if it had a longer wheelbase and slightly longer bed, I would buy the basic version.

[@gummoonamerica]

I'm supplier and bought two, one for my son and one for me. Yes I have full size diesel also. They are all great trucks. Just different approach.

[@270eman]

Those the cars that catch fire?

[@gummoonamerica]

@@270eman not yet so far. Lol

[@270eman]

@@gummoonamerica With the new recall thats FORD now hahaha

[@zachblaha766]

Love the reviews! Only thing I'll say is I think these vehicles are for different markets. The ridgeline, although small, is more of a true mid size truck and the santa cruz is really more of a crossover with the utility of having a small bed.

[@alt9874]

Good comparison, I think I would choose the Ridgeline. My current 2009 Ridgeline does everything our family needs in a truck. It's a comfy and trouble-free daily driver. At 314,000 kms it still runs like new, great job Honda!

[@nicoyoung259]

Recently got a 2021 ridgline, absolutely no complaints! Great truck

[@williamdrijver4141]

Until recently the Ridgeline looked a tweener / in a different league, but thanks to the Santa Cruz and Maverick it suddenly looks big and more the real deal :-)

[@seruresto1386]

Ridgeline is the widest midsize truck and has the most interior room. In a crew can configuration it the longest and widest bed. Near tops in payload and has a realistic tow rating which it handles well.

[@jg8263]

the IIHS (insurance Institute for Highway Safety) actually classifies the Ridgeline as a Large Pickup, whereas something like the Ford Ranger and Chevy Colorado is classified as a Small Pickup. The size difference is tremendous. In fact, my dad's old 2017 Sierra Double Cab had a smaller backseat than the Ridgeline, although his new 21 Silverado Crew is larger.

[@jg8263]

@@seruresto1386 good point on width, in fact it is over 5" wider than a ranger, and I believe it is only 1 or 2 inches narrower than the F150.

[@3ofus135]

Ridgeline looks so much better.

[@SilverScarletSpider]

I lean more towards the Honda Ridgeline because it’s infotainment and climate control is much more user friendly. While the Honda V6 might not have the power of Hyundai’s I4 Turbo, the Honda V6 should be much more reliable long term and is a supercharger away from beauty.

[@frandanco6289]

No Name - Yes, I also believe based on years of reliability, the proven Honda V6 will always outlast any turbocharged 4-cylinder unless there is one made by Honda. But I will always wonder just exactly how long a tiny 2 liter engine can live with heavy loads and turbocharging.. It would have to be a little less reliable, long-term, and would also have to just wear out sooner.. As has been said for decades upon decades, there is just no substitute for more cubic inches...

[@SilverScarletSpider]

@@frandanco6289 That’s very true, it’s the very reason why the relatively underpowered and understressed big displacement V8’s in old Ford Crown Victoria/Mercury Marauder police cars are still very much alive and running despite getting horrible MPG’s and poor performance relative to their displacement. However, it is also equally impressive that the relatively small displacement four cylinders and V6’s within Toyota Corollas/Honda Civics, and Toyota Camrys/Honda Accords from the 1990’s are still putting around strongly with no problem.

[@jamesgreen8385]

Like Howard said around the 15:00 minute mark, in a couple years I’ll be cross-shopping the F-150, Ridgeline, Santa Cruz, Ranger, Frontier, etc. I know I want a truck, but I also know I don’t need a lot of truck. I’m a weekend warrior type. Fuel efficiency and comfort on-road is important for commuting, as is affordability, but I also want some capability. I’m not sure which truck is for me yet, but these videos help! Thanks for these videos and all you do.

[@alexanderblackburn4520]

I don't need power and real offroad ability very often, but when I do, neither of these will do it, or even close to what I need.

[@pino_7428]

Tried the 2021 Ridgeline last week and I’m impressed with the ride quality. Now I’m waiting for the dealer to receive a black one. The only thing is that in Puerto Rico the sport cost $48k 😳. I managed to get that price down and the dealer included the roof racks, all weather mats and running boards.

[@fernpelletier1432]

After owning a 2009 Ridgeline for 12 years i decided to check out the Santa Cruise but had to get the new 2021 Ridgeline Touring as i know they are dependable and well made ,Wow really loving it!

[@kkacperowski]

People that diss these options do so because deep down this is the truck they actually want and need. They all go lease or finance a 65k f150 for 80 months just to drive around down.

[@lani9779]

Well said!

[@brianbanks3044]

i have a 2nd gen Ridgeline...i got it after I traded in my Baja....when i saw the Santa Cruz, I thought , oh crap, the Baja is back.....but after driving the Honda for a year and seeing the trunk/box of the Cruz, I am happy with my P/U choice...if I had an extra 30 K to play with, and a 3 car garage, I would probably pick up a Cruz as a drive around town vehicle and get that Baja feeling back again...i love the look of the Hyundai but for truck purposes and usefulness, the Honda is a better pick for me

[@katiafoust1092]

Bought my first Ridgeline yesterday-beauty to drive!

[@danlenz9908]

I just bought the 2022 Cruz a few months ago for a work car. I've loved it in many ways and then I've not liked some things around it. It drives great!! It handles very well and has some great options. I put on a lot of miles with it a day and very comfortable to drive no problems! I bought the SEL to get more out of it so was $40k plus, I also looked at the Ridgeline before buying this and because of price and thinking the MPG would be better with all the miles I put on. I chose the Cruz. So far 10K later MPG hasn't been super great and the size of bed doesn't hold as much as I thought. The cover that comes on it I think is crap, it leaks and sticks a lot. You lose a good amount of space with it on, so only getting like 3' of room back there for all my stuff for work. Then I've had a lot of mechanical issues with warranty, so it's been in the shop 3 times now for updates which I've not liked at all. I'm in the process of trading it in for Ridgeline. To get about the same MPG and more space and I can put a topper on to get more space and security which the cruz I've been told will not have a topper option if at all or not for a while. So as much as I've loved the Cruz for the good stuff I've also had enough bad that I'm going to switch to the Honda in the long run.

[@fernandosuarez5815]

Honda Ridgeline ! In my opinion has been around with no issues !!!

[@rossthoma4152]

Here's a pro tip LOL, by backing you quad into the truck bed you won't accidentally smash the rear window with the front of the quad bumper/rack (either by loading or bouncing on rough roads). The front guard is slightly in front of the tires and above the lip of the bed where as the rear tires are the furthest part of the rear end and rest against the bed wall, with the rear rack on most all quads high and forward enough not to go through the rear window when loaded. Unfortunately it was a tough lesson learned when I was working oilfield survey in western Canada with a Ford Ranger extended cab and a quad living in the bed. just an FYI!

[@JohnSmith-ev1sm]

"Come back to the bed with me, cause this is really where I want to show off.... " STEVE! let's stop you right there ;)

[@nicholassmith7048]

The Santa Cruz and Maverick are the best things to happen to the Ridgeline.

[@brianq103]

Exactly! After waiting for the Santa Cruz and then seeing it person, I bought a Ridgeline.

[@barciniega]

I agree. Similar to the Bronco being a great thing for Jeep. Competition is good for us as consumers.

[@IamGroot786]

@@brianq103 The Ridge is just superior. An actually useable bed, superior torque vectoring AWD and a proven powertrain. Don't forget all the interior space. No other midsizer can match its back seat versatility.

[@JBM425]

@@IamGroot786 As much as I like the Ridgeline, it would be a very tight fit length-wise in my garage. The Santa Cruz would fit much more comfortably. Also, since I am the sole occupant in my car 95% of the time, the Santa Cruz is more suitable for solo travel.

[@IamGroot786]

@@JBM425 And that's fine. Everyone has different needs. I have 3 kids so the overall space and back seat in my Ridgeline works out great for us.

[@MrHugawa]

great review gents.... 8 grand difference between the two will play a big part of any decision too

[@rondail5675]

Thanks Steve and Howard. Always good, honest reviews. Howard, your ending summary was damn good!

[@TheTechknowpro]

Howard hit the nail on the head. The market is there, and these are great contenders in that market. I’m a Santa Cruz fan in this market. I just wish it had a 4wd system instead of the awd system because I think it would make a great overland vehicle. Just my two cents.

[@insideout7777]

I have had Ford F-150’s, Toyotas, a 2007 Ridgeline and now a 2023 Ridgeline. The naturally aspirated engine in the Ridgeline is such a reliable engine. Hondas are made so much better than their competitors. I would choose the Ridgeline over all others…and I did! Very impressed!

[@BrantfordKia]

Can’t argue with your choice on which one you prefer. 😉 But in all seriousness, I agree with you both that it’s nice to have some variety in the truck world! Great job guys!

[@shane.henderson]

Great job with this video, I was hoping to see these two together. One of thing I actually liked about the Ridgeline when it first came out was that it looked different from everything else on the road. Over the years that uniqueness has been whittled away to where it just looks like every other truck out there. We test drove the Santa Cruz and couldn't believe how much fun it was to drive.

[@mountainhobo]

"Compact market" -- Isn't Ridgeline more of a midsize? At least to my 6'3" it felt that way.

[@vagabond1776]

Agreed. Not exactly apples to apples, but one thing this comparison did do is expose the Ridgeline’s lower power numbers for its size.

[@prettysheddy]

Agreed. I have no idea why these people keep saying the Ridgeline, Santee Cruz and Maverick are competitors. The Ridgeline is clearly midsize. Honestly it's one of the largest midsize when talking interior space and bed length.

[@autobotavengerfireballxl5339]

The only reason they keep comparing the ridgeline is because it's a front wheel drive unibody pick up gosh you fuckin amateurs...

[@vagabond1776]

@@autobotavengerfireballxl5339 We all get it Finn. The comparison is simply for fun and entertainment, but unfortunately, there are a lot of consumers out there that are not car enthusiasts and either don’t understand nor are aware of the class differences (many will simply think Hyundai made a mistake building a smaller vehicle). Yes, they’re both FWD and unibody trucks but that doesn’t mean you should be comparing a Corolla vs Accord. This was a great video but they probably should’ve emphasized or reiterated the size and price differences, as well as, mentioning the target market for greater clarification.

[@autobotavengerfireballxl5339]

@@vagabond1776 if you need clarification on the size the vehicle go get your eyes checked simp

[@krisw8597]

Ridgeline all the way, more room, bigger trunk, and the best AWD system in the market place right now.

[@ajmedeiros77]

Yes to all of the above. Not sure why Steve kept leaning Santa Cruz

[@seruresto1386]

@@willr1796 The Honda AWD is better than the Santa Cruz though.

[@ChrisPollard]

Having just taken my almost week-old Santa Cruz Ultimate for a nearly three hour tour down the exact kind of forest access gravel/sand/mud roads you were showing ... making big splashes and kicking up mud along the way ... (ADVENTURE!! It was .. we got turned around and lost in the middle of nowhere for about 60km) I can absolutely say it's built for just that kind of soft-road adventuring. It ate up those unmaintained washboards so well my wife didn't realize we were on washboard. Had a few bits of 'turkey trail' that left me wondering if I was going to have wheels hanging in the air. Hit some big mud holes full of water (didn't have a videographer to soak though). Prayed those highway Michelins would keep traction in the mud. It was a good time, other than spending an hour or so trying to figure out where the h*ll we were for a bit. LOL My only real complaint, if I had to pick one, is that the bed may be water resistant, but man, it gets LOADED with dust on those dirt roads! Had my jacket/computer bag/cooler bag in the bed because we gave a friend and her dachshund a ride back to town after work ... and I had to pound the dust off them all before I could bring them in the house. But we put the adventure in Sports Adventure Vehicle tonight. The things you do to get home when a fatal accident closes the only highway between your office and your home. (Trans-Canada Highway)

[@TheQuinto2010]

Did your SC have the cover over the bed and the gear still got dusty?

[@ChrisPollard]

@@TheQuinto2010 yeah, the bed got dusty. To be fair, the level of dust and the length of time I was in it was extreme. Like, couldn't see the road in front of me at times and had to allow almost to a stop bad. Very fine dust.

[@jimji2774]

You could have put that stuff in the little trunk no ? Would be nice to know if that worked better. Oh the Canadian life !

[@ChrisPollard]

@@jimji2774 I could have, but already had other things in the brunk. THAT stayed absolutely sealed up. It's fantastic.

[@jimji2774]

@@ChrisPollard I see. Nice report btw.

[@foellerd]

Props to the king for bringing us this comparison video so quickly.

[@seoulglo1999]

9:56 THANK YOU! Finally found a review with baby seats in the back of these.

[@rdecker6092]

I currently am driving a 2017 Hyundai Sonata but will be trading it in for a Santa Cruz.

[@mlewis4226]

As a woman in search of her first pickup, I am doing my homework. I test-drove a Santa Cruz and love that it handles like a car, love the 5k towing capacity and AWD. My sister-in-law has the black edition honda ridgeline and she loves it but I don't like the boxiness of the Honda. the comparisons are real but for me, it is coming down to affordability and you cannot beat the Hyundai warranty. This was a great review and thank you

[@TheJeep1967]

I would pick the Ridgeline because of the bigger trunk, wider bed, bigger back seat, and the torque vectoring AWD system. From everything I have seen, that iVTM4 system is extremely capable. I'd love to see Honda pop a version of their 3.0 Turbo that they use on the Acura S models into the Ridgeline. Even if it was slightly detuned that would make for a fun little truck. Of coarse it would probably drive the price up significantly too, so maybe not a great idea.

[@rodneydecormier1504]

See where the spare is in the Honda? You have 3 yrs of mulch and blow a tire. Now you are on the side of the highway and you have to shovel out your mulch to get to the spare. Have fun.

[@TheJeep1967]

@@rodneydecormier1504 True, but I have had exactly one flat tire in the past 15 years. So the odds of that happening when I have a load like that are slim to none.

[@jessebutler9352]

Thanks for including car seats in your reviews. It’s super helpful as I look for a new family vehicle for outdoor fun.

[@TruckKing]

Happy to help!

[@demerson1990]

Only video I could find with the car seats

[@jorgecervantes1322]

I'm 170 cm (5'7) and my fiancée is 152 cm (5'0). Given that the Honda Ridgeline offers more interior space in the back row in comparison to most midsize trucks, does it offer enough space for us in the front while having infant/child seats in the back? Or would it be best to look at a full- size trucks like Ford or Ram. I'm looking towards investing in a truck and use it on a daily basis. I'll be using the bed frequently. My main interest is in the interior space and comfort.

[@blacktomcatz]

These two aren't really comparable. The Ridgeline was clearly built with the mid-size market in mind. It has better packaging and space for more classically "truck-like" duties. However, it's pricing is also more on par with more traditional mid-sized trucks, while a similarly equipped Santa Cruz will run close to $10k cheaper.

[@BikeKayaker]

I'm on my 2nd Ridgeline since 2007. My 17 has been a fantastic vehicle so far and super reliable just like the first gen was. The Santa Cruz is a sharp looking vehicle, but my friends with other Hyundai's with turbo chargers ALL have had major reliability issues with the turbo chargers and transmissions. That scares me. Maybe once they fix those issues and by the time I'm ready to replace my Ridge in a few years, the Santa Cruz will be one I test drive.

[@jameswan670]

Hyundai's GDI engine and DCT make people quite hesitated to buy....

[@BlixemBlixem]

You need to show how a 4x8ft sheet of Plywood does fit in the back of the ridgeline. (yes with tailgate open)

[@jnicksnewstart]

4 by 8 sheet fits in the back of the Santa Cruz as well. I confirmed this in person last week. Santa Cruz has a second position on the tailgate cables that holds the top of the tailgate level with the top of the wheel wells. There are pockets in the side of the bed to hold two-by-fours horizontally to support center of the sheet. The added benefit is that you can actually slide low stuff under the sheet you're carrying. I don't consider either one of these particular vehicles as being work trucks. However, I think they would make great supervisor or estimator vehicles. The included locking bed cover on the Santa Cruz is a huge bonus for keeping expensive job measuring equipment under lock and key. Adding a hard tonneau cover to the Honda Ridgeline increases the price difference between the two, an additional thousand plus dollars. That's now a $9000 plus gap.

[@hughes3947]

True. everyone mentions it in reviews yet no one ever tests it.

[@jimji2774]

@@jnicksnewstart Exactly show us the plywood ! And you don't technically need to put the tailgate down in that halfway position either. I measured the Santa Cruz and where a piece of plywood would rest on the closed tailgate was if I can remember 55" leaving a smaller overhang which should balance alright with a strap to keep the wind off it. I carried all my plywood with tailgate up for years in 6' and shorter beds just haven't tried it yet in the Santa Cruz cause I don't own one yet. The half down position would be easier to load and unload though but would need more strapping to keep it off the highway. I would have to see which I preferred. Now I have to find one that the dealers haven't marked up $5K and will have to remeasure that length to confirm. Show us the plywood and maybe some 2 x 4's and then someone should cut out that spot on the bed rail protector cause it looks like it was made to accept a post for a headache rack !

[@frandanco6289]

@@jnicksnewstart Im not so sure a hard tonneau cover for anything costs an additional $1,000 +...

[@jnicksnewstart]

@@frandanco6289 I was referring to factory-installed Ridgeline option. However, I did look online at quality aftermarket lockable hard retracting or folding covers, and many of them we're between $900 and $1,200. There were some that were cheaper, but not sure of their quality.

[@steveo4141]

I'd take a naturally aspirated engine over a turbocharged engine when I'm towing any day.... Driving a 2017 Ridgeline for the last 2yrs and very pleased with it.... had a few vehicles from Hyundai in the past and they do build good cars but Honda has this one in the bag.

[@howieh7877]

Have a 2022 Ridgeline on order and I like both these trucks but the Ridgeline just has way more utility. Road trips, cargo usage, interior and the famous Honda 3.5 engine that is proven till the end of time.

[@frandanco6289]

Howee H - And I think the Ridgeline will be a way more comfortable ride for those 4,000 mile trips I have to make every few years...

[@markking428]

I like the more space you get with Honda Ridgeline. The bed is deeper and the trunk is massive. Great for grocery runs and I can use it for light hauling. The ride is smooth and I get good mileage per gallon. I traded my Ram 1500 it was a good truck but it was to much truck.

[@ivatrainghiem4578]

I'd go for Honda for every single choice

[@JBM425]

The Santa Cruz would fit much more easily in most garages, but I really like both vehicles. People who deride these as not being”real trucks” don’t realize how capable they really are for what most suburban drivers use a pickup (as opposed to buying a “real truck” for its image yet never taking it off-road).

[@larryl9516]

My Ridgeline fits in the garage with my other Honda.(fit)

[@oi32df]

Both lacking a very nice future . For 2003 the Subaru Baja designers created a bed pass-through they call the Switchback. Flip the seat cushions forward, fold the backrests down, and a pass-through door folds flat so you can slide in surfboards, skis etc . Can't belive that today they couldn't offer this for cause of structural integrity .

[@lockhga]

Great review. I currently own a 2007 Honda Ridgeline and am totally impressed with it! My favourite features are the 2” lift kit and larger tires, absolutely love the massive trunk under the truck bed - carries all of my winter emergency kit, towing supplies, tools and toys; in summer, all of my camping stuff (sleeping bags, tent, fishing tackle box, inflatable kayak, fishing rods (folded), life jackets, shovel, ax, stove, etc..) - yes - all in that massive trunk! I also love the interior cab space where we can comfortably seat 5 good sized adults with everyone having leg room and some good storage under the rear 60/40 seat. It drives like a car, handles fantastic and it’s nice and quiet/smooth. Hands down the most enjoyable vehicle I’ve personally ever owned in my life and highly recommended. It’s got 337,000km on it and still running like a top! The downfall is that the back rear end rusts out on them (so I’m told) so I’m looking at about a $2,000 CAD rebuild/metal fabrication job to fix that but then everything else is great so I should expect to have a couple/several more years of enjoyment out of my large El Camino. As far as the Hyundai Truck, I couldn’t help but visit my local dealer when I saw one sitting in the parking lot because it looked so sharp! The driver’s seat is really comfortable and when I hopped out of it (left it positioned where I would be driving it) to get in the back seat, I immediately noticed there was 2-3” (yes, inches) available between the front and rear seat which means I’d have to bring my driving seat ahead several inches to allow a smaller person to sit behind me (and I’m a tiny little guy myself!) The in-bed trunk is around (eyeball guessing) 70-80% smaller than the Ridgeline - don’t even think I could get my tent in it. The truck bed is certainly a lot smaller than the Ridgeline because of the bed cover and although it can be removed to get that extra foot of space, I didn’t ‘appear’ to be a 2 minute job to get it out. My impression of the Hyundai truck is that it’s a multi purpose vehicle I’m sure fits a great part in the market and I think my wife would love it because it IS smaller, has great fuel economy, AWD, loads of safety features and easy to handle. (No, I didn’t buy it but if you’re going to lose sleep over it, let me know and I’ll set up a go-fund-me page and keep you posted - only need $45,999.99 and I can cover the rest 😉)

[@psuave1210]

Great comparison review. I have my eye on both of these but I am heavily leaning towards the Ridgeline. Keep up the great reviews!

[@TruckKing]

Thanks! 👍

[@Tinrs80]

Good GOOD Videography Fellas..thats how your videos should be so you look more professional...both of you give your opinions too and no yelling out. Good damn camera angles too. Good job.

[@paulcondie2520]

I'm shooting for a maverick, but the numbers for the Santa Cruz are pretty impressive especially with the dual clutch transmission!

[@ALMX5DP]

Awesome review TK team! Loved seeing these compare and contrast style videos. People will always complain but i love seeing differences even if they arent apples to apples.

[@xiksql6570]

I own a 2021 Ridgeline and pick the Ridgeline (not because I own one) but for these reasons .bigger bed ... bigger trunk ... dual action tailgate = MORE UTILITY .bigger cab ... bigger truck = MORE COMFORT .superior AWD system (as you demonstrated) .less stressed J35Y6 V6 = LONG TERM RELIABILITY .simplicity less buttons to push less levers to pull fewer digital screens = LESS ELECTRICAL GREMLINS OVER TIME .the non-truck Ridgeline seems truckier than the car-like Santa Cruz Regards, Keith

[@xiksql6570]

and forgot to add ... although the RL is loosely based on the Pilot it does have different shocks, different knuckles, and other RL specific items. I have driven earlier RLs and my 2021 seems a little stiffer (more tuck-like???) than the prior gens...to me it doesn't feel/drive like a Pilot ...

[@JayRay61]

We've had a slew of trucks, for many uses. Some of the recent ones...Dodge Ram 3500 Cummins Dually for heavy duty towing and fifth wheel rv travel, 1500 Dodge half ton, and then a few GMC Sierras. Today we own a 2020 Honda Ridgeline Touring. Pretty much all we need and has really cool features, so many that sometimes we forget... like the heated and cooled seats, rear heated seats, rear climate controls on the console, USB plugs in the rear console, rear tailgate dual opening options, sound system in the box, electric 110 in the box, etc. For us it works great, easy to park in narrow conditions, takes on a 48" wide sheet of plywood and will tow 5000 lbs which is perfect for our landscaping hobby. When traveling it is very comfortable, gets respectable fuel mileage while allowing for good luggage capacity. All in all the price may be higher than the Hyundai, but you have more truck and features. Also, I would be sure that you're going to get long trouble free service and much higher trade in value. As much as I respect the Hyundai / Kia brands, they are still suffering from negative reviews with the many engine failures and associated quality deficiencies. Bottom line, just spend the extra money on the Honda. :-)

[@danielpoirier6333]

Honda hands down. Just better quality IMHO. Turbos are fine until about 5-6 years in when they go. Suddenly all your fuel savings are erased and then some.

[@AdamM]

I test drove both back to back last week and the biggest thing I noticed was the steering. The Ridgeline has super light steering while the Santa Cruz feels weighted much better which I like. I’ll definitely be going for the Santa Cruz but here in the US you get the SE trim with the 2.5 NA engine with 191 hp

[@nathanieldeptula8830]

I just bought the platinum awd 2.5T you can get the 2.5T in the US

[@B_noJ]

I bought one, the SEL. The 2.5 naturally aspirated engine does have some pep to it.

[@SaintCyrX]

If you don't get the 10" infotainment on the Santa Cruz you DO get physical volume and tuning rollers, as well as physical up/down levers for the climate temps.

[@ChrisPollard]

And wireless Car Play/Android Auto too. I'm still not a super fan of the buttonless center stack in my Ultimate. But I'm willing to live with it because the overall package is so utterly fantastic.

[@B_noJ]

You are both correct. The SE and SEL have the physical kn9bs/rollers and wireless for your phones. Can't figure out why the more expensive 2 models you have to plug in. And, the SE and SEL are pretty much "loaded", unless you want that $150 first aid kit and the hard tonneau cover and lights and inverter in the bed, lol. I bought the soft roll up tonneau cover aftermarket for $500.

[@theschiznit8777]

You are becoming my go to source for all things trucks. Great information with a very nice presentation.

[@TruckKing]

Thanks!

[@dp1643]

You are spot on……the Hyundai is in a class of its own even with Ford. Drive both and the Santa Cruz feels like a sports car while the Ford feels like a Ranger from the 90s. Note that the latter isn’t bad…..I loved my friend’s Ranger but if you don’t need the larger bed (which you probably don’t or you would’ve gotten a full size truck) then the Santa Cruz is the way to go!

[@frandanco6289]

Daniel Park - why compare a Ford Ranger from the 90's to the current Ranger today??? There is no comparison, those 31 years saw a lot of improvements for the Ranger... The current Ranger can come in a 5' or 6' bed, so that is not really so big is it?

[@dp1643]

@@frandanco6289 I’m comparing the current Hyundai to the old Ranger. Even comparing the former with the new Ranger the Santa Cruz will smoke it on a drag strip or track. I never said it was a better “truck” by any means.

[@davidwilson2233]

10 years and 100,000 miles from now, would you really want a turbo charge 4 cyl Santacruz over a 3.5 ltr 6 cylinder Honda Ridgeline?

[@randallmeans9797]

People's comments stating that the Honda will outlast the Hyundai makes no sense considering that engine is only a few years old. Plus Hyundai gives you a 100,000 mile 10 year warranty with free scheduled maintenance for up to $36,000 miles I believe which is the best warranty you can have right now!!

[@antv8036]

Kudos to Howard for his commentary at the end! Great video guys. Keep 'em coming!

[@rjberghauser]

I noticed the Trend addition is a great one in the Santa Cruz line up. All the best features of the Ultimate with dials for the radio and wireless car play. I love it!

[@fastfairlane3677]

If Honda would offer their 3.0T in the Ridgeline, the choice of which unibody truck to buy would be easy!

[@timhalterman9756]

Yes your right. The 3.5 v6 doesn't have enough low end torque as it gets max torque at 4700rpm verses the santa cruz getting its at only 1700rpm so not really good for towing unless on real level ground.

[@TheKingkingg]

Awesome trucks my Canadians bros, I have first and second generation Ridgeline and they are perfect for me and my family living in northern Ontario Canada all year and all terrains...you can get lift kit for Honda, we use Nokian Rotiiva AT All weather winter rated tires all year and they are awesome

[@jacksonrodabaugh9984]

They don't compete, the ridgeline is a midsize truck and the Santa Cruz is a compact pickup

[@scottm.5476]

i will start by saying i ordered a Ford Maverick hybrid XLT September of last year. just not sure i can wait another year from now. i drove the Santa Cruz SEL about a month ago, and i have to say i love the feel, size, and look of the truck. honestly thoe i am not sure about the long-term quality of the truck. but yes, i like the feel trim of the Santa Cruze much more than the Maverick (my last and current vehicle is a 1996 Firebird. - yest i keep them real long term. -lol) i drove the Honda Ridgeline last night. the feel was good, the size was a bit big for me and city driving, the long-term quality -well we know it is a Honda- top shelf. i did not really care for the dealership so that might have affected my decision. i would have bought if in a minute if it was a bit smaller and better gas milage. i keep going back to the Santa Cruze, if only i had some input on long term quality and ability to get parts long term. for now i am waiting on the Maverick, but a Santa Cruze might be the way i have to go. any advice from you guys on the quality of all three?

[@sacballa_kills_em_wit_facts]

Hyundai has the best Warranty. End game lol

[@bryhul6534]

The Ridgeline is actually faster 0-60mph so I'm not sure why you thought Cruz was faster. Also why not just tow the boat with both to compare equally instead of 5k concrete with the Ridgeline. Lastly the Ridgeline is considered midsize not compact, it actually has more bed space & backseat room than the Canyon, Colorado, Tacoma....

[@lsjionredlinesupercharged2049]

Honda ridgeline as I used one as a work truck at a body shop and it out performed my 03 4.8 v8 silverado better mpg better everything.

[@TerryL423]

I'd definitely pick the Ridgeline because there's no turbo to replace. I get the advantages of a turbo engine, but that's a very expensive repair. I've had a couple of vehicles with turbo engines and the turbo failed in both. Also I like the interior design of the Ridgeline much better. I've had several trucks and the Ridgeline meets all my needs, plus an awesome crash rating. The Ridgeline will be my next truck. Yes, I said truck.

[@rodneydecormier1504]

Well, you do get the 10 yr 100,000 mile warranty with the Hyundai.

[@georgeferrier9461]

That’s a plus. But if you ever had a Honda, and are a fan of Honda, there reliability is awesome. I will stick with the Honda. Which is a midsize truck.

[@Offshore1977]

Best Santa Cruz review by far. Loved the car seat review as well. Thank you

[@vancecost]

I would have to go with the Ridgeline just due to the fact of the interior room , but most of all the very very dependable Honda Engine and Transmission. I own a Hyundai Sate Fe Limited and from what I’m told by a salesman with a Hyundai Dealership , Hyundai is already having problems with their 4cyl engine as well as the Transmission. Oh yea, where the shift buttons are in the Honda and it has the drink holders, one needs to be extremely careful with liquid spills on those shifter buttons. I would love to see Honda put a shift lever in the console.

[@kingshawn1857]

The Honda looks trucklike the Hyundai looks like a car with a bed but both very capable I'm impressed

[@paulm6481]

Honda all day every day. Ridgeline is sadly not perfect but the engine and roominess are best in midsize class.

[@nm-qt2hb]

I have owned two F 150s , a Ranger and a Sport Trac. The smaller trucks were a better option for me. Not everyone needs or wants a big truck. Great review guys.

[@benjaminzilly823]

Great review. The extra space in the Honda and the easy access spare is nice. With the Honda you know your resale value. With the Hyundai you get a little better mpg and a pretty substantial warranty and in the US 3 years of maintenance included. That's a pretty solid selling feature. Going for comfort features the ventilated seats are a plus for the Santa Cruz. I'm torn still. I'll have to drive them both. I think the turbo will be fun to drive. 😃

[@J-W.-]

I went and saw Santa Cruz its really for small projects around house and good for everyday use but anything beyond small projects the bed it unusable and rear seat is alittle tight for me.

[@Fabwal]

Spare tire hidden under a loaded bed wouldn't be ideal for me. If you only haul air in the bed, then the tire placement is of no concern. Why buy a truck if you never carry anything.

[@B_noJ]

I bought the Santa Cruz SEL AWD. Not a ridgeline fan. Don't want to haul a wheeler, but know I could haul 4x8 sheets of plywood if needed. Also looked at the Maverick. Wasn't impressed either for another mini truck that had no shape except that of a tired square 1980's Ford truck look. Put Blizzaks on the 18" wheels for winter and will get semi aggressive tires for the summer, maybe Cooper AT3'S or even duratracs. If I go offroad I'll keep it in snow mode if needed. Liked that it had better MPG than the other two unless you had the hybrid motor in the Maverick. I'm happy with what I bought and that's all that matters...

[@benjaminzilly823]

@@B_noJ Glad you found what you like. Did you go w/ Turbo?

[@benjaminzilly823]

@@J-W.- I got to ride in an SEL Premium AWD. I was surprised how little leg room is in the back seat. It seemed like more in videos. It does seem like it could be enough for what I need though.

[@stevesck6678]

Honda ridgeline all the way. I own and love it. I am tired of this turbo nonsense. Making small displacement engines work hard all the time. Longevity won't be an option. My 2 cents. Great video.

[@icare7151]

Thank you, very well done. Also looking forward to the heavier tow testing of the Santa Cruz once the 7 pin connector is available. What brand of brake controller are you going to install?

[@TruckKing]

Because its not our truck we will probably go with a plug-in in-line model that runs off a phone app.

[@icare7151]

@@TruckKing Awesome! I don’t know one could do that. Please do a video of that setup. Do you have an email address one can send off line questions etc. to? ❤️ The channel, refreshingly trustworthy, informative and real, just like visiting with good friends.

[@treesixnine]

So you tow five thousand pounds with the ridgeline, half that weight with the santa cruz, and you like the power of the santa cruz, find a new line of work

[@keithlee1742]

Definitely Honda for me! I had had the first generation ridgeline for 10 years before I switched to another vehicle. I had abused it for the duration and was a very reliable vehicle despite. As for Santa Cruz as a newcomer in the arena, it still has a lot to prove in reliability, which i doubt very strongly.

[@andrewsbbq]

Going to order a 2022 Silverado crew cab with the 6.5ft bed (currently have a '12 with 5'8 bed). Nice to be able to close the gate with my quad loaded, or if I get a tool box can still fit the quad with gate down. Last I checked the GM trucks standard bed was a hair longer than Ram and a couple inches longer than F150 and it's the only bed that can close the gate with my ATV

[@ALMX5DP]

F-150 bed is near identical to Chevy in terms of box length. I think they call it a 6'7" bed similar to Silverado.

[@andrewsbbq]

@@ALMX5DPright got the Ford and Ram reversed, f150 1.5" shorter & ram 3.5" shorter. Honestly that 1.5" is the difference with not having to air down tires or ramp the front end. The tailgate on a GM standard length just closes with a little oomf Plus the '19+ GM beds are so wide it's nice being able to still pack a ton of crap in the bed with the quad

[@stonecoldcustoms]

I have the longer bed - if you actually use it, it's so much better than the short bed.

[@squidusn71]

Alrighty then...

[@andrewsbbq]

@@squidusn71 ?

[@MysteicVoltronus]

I just love that Truck King got the new Cruz and it is filthy. I know it went through the ringer with TK and that is what I wanted to know.

[@drequest876]

Im on my second Ridgeline (first was a 2011 now a 2019) and both have given zero issues, its great to drive and perfect dimensions all round. I get alot of grief from "truck" owners but doesnt matter, it does everything I need it to do. If Honda changes to the acura mdx 3.0 turbo V6 and makes the VTM4 system similar to the SHAWD system then itll make my 3rd Ridgeline.

[@ThorMaxx]

Lower trim levels in canada do not have the digital gauge cluster and a smaller infotainment system with knobs and button plus knobs for fan and climate controls.

[@alexandermckay8594]

One thing you didn't mention is the mileage. Especially from the Santa Cruz. Does the mpg really drop when you get into that turbo?

[@matthewm3912]

It does with any turbo motor.

[@freezor80]

I would get the Ridgeline if I were buying any truck right now. It has plenty of power and torque for what I would be doing with it. plus it is just a bit larger so I can haul larger items. Lastly, I have had both Honda and Hyundai. I was more pleased with my Honda vehicles.

[@georgeferrier9461]

Same here!

[@robbhawks2568]

Just bought a Santa Cruz. So far love it.

[@sacballa_kills_em_wit_facts]

You still love it???

[@robbhawks2568]

Yup. Still love it. The turbo version has a lot of get up and go. Have hauled all kinds of junk and lumber in the back, including plywood. Think SUV Tucson with a versatile trunk.@@sacballa_kills_em_wit_facts

[@DV-tc1yr]

Hyundai Santa Cruz is my favorite I have the all-wheel-drive limited edition Grey and love it

[@WMxSmith]

Payload & Comfort: This is specific to me, but I bought a Ridgline because I needed a daily driver that could haul things for my home without needing a trailer. The ability to haul is great, but was secondary to me. Compared to the Hyundai I would keep the Ridgeline for the bed size.

[@finerbiner]

The difference is that one of these is the longest lasting vehicle in America and one will be ready for the heap in 120-140k miles.

[@olesarge1724]

The Santa Cruz will be the first one to the junkyard. The Honda will still be happily motoring on for many more miles. Provided they are equally cared for. The turbo takes away longevity. So if you tend to trade vehicles often it’s not your problem then by all means go for the new guy on the block. Yes,, I’m a very happy 2012 Ridgeline owner. 😊

[@sacballa_kills_em_wit_facts]

You’re not paying attention to Hyundai’s warranty lol

[@youareright5431]

The 4 cylinder turbo is awesome I tow two snowmobiles in a hybrid trailer with my cx 9 easily! I also run 4 hakkapalitta studded snows👍👍

[@runningbuffalo4326]

Not only is this channel good but a good father and his good sons.

[@skywalker2852]

Nice vid. The one comparison I would like to see is a 4x8 sheet in both beds. If even a small PU can't bring home a couple of sheets of plywood or drywall easily, then it might be too small. Nice payload numbers on both.

[@B_noJ]

4x8 sheets fit in the Santa Cruz with the tailgate set on the upper pins...