The class-leading model 2021 Honda Ridgeline will arrive later this year with some refreshments. This famous mid-size pickup truck offers an attractive design and even a better interior this time. From the latest information, the upcoming model will introduce some new upgrades and it will keep its traditional look. Under the hood, the Ridgeline model is powered by a proven 3.5-liter and it can take a maximum 1,500-pound payload and 5,000-pound tow rating.
Nissan Frontier, Chevrolet Colorado, and Toyota Tacoma are the models in the same class, so we can expect a fierce battle.
2021 Honda Ridgeline Will Borrow Styling Cues from the Pilot SUV
The famous Japanese manufacturer will add some mid-cycle refreshments to the new 2021 Honda Ridgeline model. Thanks to that, Ridgeline will gain a more attractive design. However, it will keep the same shape and dimensions as before. When it comes to exterior design, the upcoming pickup truck will once again borrow styling cues from the Pilot model. Overall, both models will use the same unibody platform that is very nowadays and many of Honda`s vehicles are using it. As we already mentioned, only mid-cycle refreshments are happening.
This means that the Ridgeline model will be more visually attractive and it will gain more stylish front fascia. Some reports are talking that we can expect the newly shaped headlights and fog lights. Besides that, the grille will be slightly reshaped and it will use more chrome accents around. Moreover, the two-way tailgate will be offered as standard.
Changes Inside
Inside, the latest 2021 Honda Ridgeline will look more modern than before. However, like the previous model, the new one will offer the same upscale cabin with enough room for five occupants. Basically, the manufacturer reorganized the cabin to provide a higher level of comfort. We must add that the interior looks nearly identical to the popular Honda Pilot, and that’s a good thing.
On the other hand, more standard features are a must. Furthermore, if you want more luxury, you should go for upper-level trims that include heated front seats, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto plus a power-sliding rear window for improved ventilation.
2021 Honda Ridgeline Powertrain Specs and Towing Capacity
The upcoming 2021 Honda Ridgeline is a pickup truck that will be unfortunately powered by a single option. This model rides on the unibody platform and thanks to that, this engine can be modified optionally with an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. The base model uses a front-wheel-drive and is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 powertrain that delivers 280 horsepower.
In addition, it uses the same 6-speed automatic transmission as before and can tow up to 5000 pounds. FWD system comes standard on every model except RTL-E and Black Edition, which get AWD as standard. Also, we must mention that V6 powertrain features direct injection and cylinder deactivation systems to improve fuel efficiency. However, we are still waiting for more information about the latest numbers.
Release Date and Price
Because of the situation with pandemic Coronavirus over the world, we are not sure if 2021 Honda Ridgeline will be deferred to the next year. However, if this situation soldered up in two-three months, we can expect this model to debut later this year. Overall, the price will probably remain the same due to minimal upgrades. The current MSRP is just under $31,000 for the base model, while the most expensive is still Black Edition with a price of $44,000.
Pros and Cons
If you need a pickup truck that is comfortable, provides an attractive design, and it has a great ability to haul all your toys, the upcoming 2021 Honda Ridgeline is the real deal. Moreover, this model is considered as one of the best pickups in the mid-size segment. The only disadvantage is its towing capacity. Even the models like Chevy Colorado or Toyota Tacoma beats Ridgeline in this department.