Interesting read no doubt. Car and Driver named the Ridgeline the Mid Size truck of the year for 2017, 18 and 19. While technically the Ridgeline is the least amount of "Truck" of the four it is no slouch when it comes to performing truck functions.
I bought my 2019 Ridgeline about 6 weeks and 3,000 miles ago and have been nothing but delighted. This is probably due to the fact that I rarely "need" a truck but it sure is nice to have one available. I just returned from a 1,455 mile trip from Tucson to Angel Fire NM and back towing a 10' cargo trailer {14' overall} hauling my Polaris Rzr {Rzr and Trailer weighed in at 2,580#} and I got 16.1 mpg cruising at 65.
That trip involved a lot of serious mountains, often over 9 and even 10K' and at no time did the Honda lack power - up and over Bobcat Pass at 9,820' towing the Rzr with 4 adults it maintained the speed limit easily.
Since most of the time I don't need a truck the ride and handling of the Ridgeline which is a lot more like a Honda Accord is a great feature. I am getting 24+ around town and 26 - 28 on the interstates {not towing obviously}.
The fit and finish of Honda is excellent and I skipped all of the nanny nonsense of lane deviation and auto Cruise control/braking. The hidden 7.3 cubic foot trunk located under the rear of the bed is one of the most innovative features I have ever come across in any truck. To the "it's not real truck" crowd I have to point out that my Ridgeline RTL has 1,477# of payload, all wheel drive and 18" wheels with the largest most functional bed of any of the others in this comparison.
No I don't think the Honda is the truck for a lot of folks but if your vehicular needs are more car/SUV vs pure truck work take a look at the Ridgeline as there is a lot to like in this unique one of a kind vehicle. Nicely equipped my RTL went out the door for $39,081.
:C
