I spent a few days behind the wheel of the 2025 Honda Ridgeline, and let’s be clear right away that this pickup is not quite like the others. Honda isn’t trying to take on the American giants; instead, it aims to appeal to those who want the versatility of a truck without sacrificing SUV comfort. You could compare it to the Hyundai Santa Cruz or the smaller Ford Maverick, but the Ridgeline plays its own tune.
The SUV That Thinks It’s a Truck
Once inside, the Ridgeline stands out for its spacious cabin, but you quickly realize that ergonomics are not its strong suit. The controls are oddly placed, the dashboard layout feels counterintuitive, and the overall design doesn’t deliver the refinement expected at this price point. The interior is functional but finished with materials that feel more work-truck than upscale.
Under the hood, the 3.5-liter V6 producing 280 horsepower paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission delivers decent performance, but the driving experience feels uneven. In the city, the Ridgeline feels heavy and uninspired, while on the highway it’s stable yet never particularly engaging to drive. The independent suspension helps smooth out bumps but can’t fully disguise the truck’s awkward handling and vague steering feedback. One of the cleverest touches is the in-bed trunk, a brilliant idea that adds genuine everyday practicality. It’s easily the Ridgeline’s most distinctive feature.
At a Crossroads
The Ridgeline is, above all, a compromise. Its towing capacity of 2,268 kg (5,000 lb) is enough for most drivers, though it won’t impress pickup purists. The average fuel consumption of 11.6 L/100 km is respectable for a vehicle of this size and power. This is a truck for those who want to do a bit of everything: tow a trailer, haul gear, or head to the cottage without giving up everyday comfort.
Standard all-wheel drive, paired with precise steering and solid braking, makes the Ridgeline confident in rain or snow. It’s not an off-road warrior, but it handles tough conditions well enough. However, drivers seeking thrills or rugged truck dynamics may find it a little too tame.
In the end, the 2025 Honda Ridgeline is neither a true pickup nor a conventional SUV. It’s a category of one, designed for those who like to take the road less traveled, but in comfort. It’s not the most luxurious or the most powerful, yet for those looking for a versatile and sensible companion, the Ridgeline remains a smart, if imperfect, choice.
(The picture used is of the 2026 model)
