Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2008 Honda Ridgeline 4-Door. I was able to put about 1,000 miles on the truck because of a wedding I needed to attend. 4 people, luggage for a week and a walker for grandma with space to spare. I couldn’t have been more impressed. I’d take this truck anywhere and for Honda’s first and only truck they forgot to make it look like a truck.
That would be a good thing and this truck is sure to be a smash hit. No pun intended. You will begin to see them on the roads in increasing numbers. You can count on that.
General Info:
Parts – US/Canadian 75%.
Assembly – Alliston, Ontario, Canada; Engine – USA, Transmission – Japan.
Class: – Special Purpose – Truck
Cars: – Accord, Accord Hybrid, Civic, Civic Hybrid, CR-V, Element, Fit, Odyssey, Pilot, Ridgeline & S2000.
Noticed a sign on the freeway that said “Report Drunk Drivers – Call 911”. It occurred to me the message was to say don’t be silent when you know the law is being broken. So I suggest Cal Trans post another message… “Report Illegal Aliens” – because they are breaking the law and endangering all including my friends who are Mexican Americans as I am an Italian American and proud of both heritages.
Handling & Performance:
I’m not thrilled with the fuel economy but it is a very spunky V6. It is extremely comfortable and not truck-like at all. The ride is ultra smooth in large part because it weighs 4,500 lbs.
Styling:
Very thoughtful storage compartments in a not so original design attempt. The unique truck design without the traditional pick up truck separation of bed from cab is patterned after the Chevrolet Avalanche that camouflages the fact it is really a pick up truck. It works great. Nice job GM. The most sincere form of flattery is when people copy you.
Fit and Finish:
This truck is car like in how nicely it is assembled with close seams and not at all truck like.
Cost:
At first blush it appears pricey but once you look at the standard equipment you’ll see why it is priced as it is. There are three trim levels – RT $27,700, midrange RTS $30,075 and RTL $31,490—or $34,640 with a moonroof, XM satellite radio and a navigation system. In any case it is quite competitive in class.
Conveniences and comfort:
Outstanding perfect array of features that puts you at the top of the comfort curve.
Consumer Recommendation:
In the truck segment this is a must see. It is, of course, a Honda-car with a good record of reliability.
Recognized Competition:
Honda Ridgeline $28-35,000, Nissan Titan $24-39,000, GMC Sierra 1500 $17-41,000, Dodge Ram 1500 $21-40,000, Chevrolet Silverado 1500 $17-38,000, Ford F-150 $17-36,000, Toyota Tundra $22-42,000.
Good News:
Fantastic storage compartments, in-bed trunk, fun to drive, take anywhere truck.
Bad News:
Poor fuel economy.
Standard Equipment:
3.5 liter 247 hp V6 engine, 5-speed auto transmission with heavy duty cooler, 4-wheel drive, 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS electronic brake distribution and brake assist, 4-wheel independent suspension, front and rear stabilizer bars, variable assist steering, dual front and side air bags, side curtain air bags with roll over sensors, vehicle stability assist, tire pressure monitoring system, remote entry with security, immobilizer theft deterrent system, child latch system, Navigation, leather trimmed seats and steering wheel, Audio sound system with 6- in-dash CD player, XM satellite radio, steering wheel audion controls, climate control, heated front seats with 8-way driver seat with lumbar, multifunctional center storage console with sliding armrest, split fold up rear seat with under seat cargo, fold down rear armrest, power windows, power sliding rear window, cruise control, homelink, temp gauge, 12 V outlets, power moonroof with tilt, power door mirrors, dual action tailgate, composite cargo bed, in Bed trunk, prewire trailer connection 4/7 pin.
Gas Stats:
$3.25/ Gal avg. November 25, ‘07
for more information.
15 City and 20 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $35,090 as equipped.
