Honda Cars : Next Generation Honda Ridgeline Truck Update | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Well, no specifics yet, Honda is keeping their cards close to their chest on this one, no spyshots, renderings, official release date, concepts, .... nothing.  The original idea is that this truck would be redesigned for 2014, late in the year, from what rumours I am hearing is that this truck may not be released until mid/late 2014 as a 2015 model. 

Again, I have no idea if they are going to put a diesel (doubt it) engine into this truck.  I cannot see them going up to the 3.7L, seeing as Honda said that they will put a heavy emphasis on fuel economy this go around, so expect to see VCM cylinder deactivation, and Earth Dreams.  I would have to say I would expect a 6 Speed Automatic VS a CVT.

I expect the size to be about the same, I don't see Honda throwing their hat into the full size segment just yet (if ever).

I do expect something innovative that no one saw coming (like the in bed trunk) to compliment all of the other upgrades.

Stay tuned for any other updates.

Honda Cars : Car and Driver: 2014 Toyota Tundra: Chiseled Looks, Carry-Over Engines | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

By John Lamm of www.caranddriver.com

Pickup-truck buyers never had it so good. In its fancier trims, the new Ram 1500 is basically a limousine that can handle mulch. Chevrolet and GMC redid the Silverado and Sierra for 2014, bringing three new engines to the party. The bestselling pickup for almost 40 years, Ford's F-150, got a freshening for 2013 and then the blue oval popped the cork on a preview of its 2015 successor, the Atlas concept, at January’s Detroit auto show. Nissan, which has rather ignored its Titan pickup for some time, is readying a new one for 2014 or 2015. 

Now at the 2013 Chicago auto show appears the redesigned 2014 Toyota Tundra. Apparently “chiseled” was the operative word in redoing the pickup's exterior design, work charged to Toyota's design centers in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and that hotbed of pickup passion, Newport Beach, California. The reshaped exterior of the Tundra is a tip of the hat to the Detroit pickups, in that it’s more squared-off than the softer-looking outgoing truck. The hood has been raised by 1.6 inches, and the grille is wider and taller for more a bruising look. The bumpers are now constructed of three pieces both to allow for distinctive styling for the various equipment levels and to make repairs easier. 

The entire package has more presence than the Tundra it replaces, but it still looks familiar overall, an impression bolstered by the fact that this is essentially a heavy refresh. The chassis is largely unchanged, save for some suspension retuning intended to iron out the old truck's freeway hop. We have only a smattering of dimensional details for a couple of configurations, but the reworked Tundra will thus occupy basically the same amount of real estate as the one it will replace, including wheelbases, overall length, and width. Bed width from wall to wall has been reduced by 1.4 inches, however. 

There will be five trims and, as before, three cab styles. All can be had with rear- or four-wheel drive. The trim ladder starts with the base "hard-working" SR before moving to the SR5 that accounts for most Tundra sales. Those in search of a tonier Tundra will choose from the Limited, Platinum, and 1794 Edition versions. Don't strain your brain trying to pluck that number from your high-school history class, though; 1794 was the year of the founding of the ranch near San Antonio where the Tundra factory is located. How touching. Each Tundra trim will have its own distinct grille. As for cab layouts, there will be the traditional two-door Regular Cab, the four-door Double Cab, and the four-door CrewMax, which features fold-up seats for added carrying space. And, of course, there will again be the option of TRD off-road kit.

Those model names pretty well indicate by themselves what to expect from the interiors. Fundamentals for all interior levels include redone ergonomics, such as moving the center stack 2.6 inches closer to the driver and making certain that knobs are big enough to be used by gloved hands. (Most of the previous truck’s switchgear was suitably Tonka-like; a couple of smaller radio knobs have been enlarged. We’re happy about them moving closer to the pilot, though, as functions on the right side of the stack previously required quite a stretch.) The seats have been redesigned to be more comfortable—just once we’d like to see a release describe new seats as “more tortuous”—and there are plenty of storage areas for work-site and everyday detritus. Double Cabs and CrewMax models can be spec’d with a bench or individual seats up front. 

SR and SR5 versions have the most basic, workaday interiors. Limited brings leather upholstery, while Platinum is meant for what Toyota terms "personal-use truckers," who apparently need premium, diamond-stitched leather and such amenities as a 12-speaker JBL sound system, heated and ventilated front seats, and navigation. It also gets Entune, Toyota’s infotainment suite. You might call the 1794 Edition the "Howdy, Pardner" version, with its Western-themed, embossed saddle-brown leather surfaces and faux suede detailing. Plus you get all the goodies that come with the Platinum model. 

Toyota describes the new Tundra's drivetrains as "proven," which is PR-speak for “carry-over.” The trio of engines have aluminum blocks, as well as heads with two cams each. The entry engine is still the 4.0-liter V-6, rated again at 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. It runs through a five-speed automatic, while GM and Ford offer six-speed units and Ram an eight-speed auto with their six-cylinder truck engines. (Ram will also soon offer a Hemi V-8/eight-speed combo.) There are six-speed automatics behind the two Toyota V-8s; the smaller powerplant displaces 4.6 liters and features 310 horsepower and 327 lb-ft of torque, while a 5.7-liter unit serves as the top option and serves up 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft. If the fuel-economy numbers also carry over, we can expect 16 mpg city/20 mpg highway for the RWD 4.0, 14–15 mpg city/19–20 mpg highway from the 4.6, and 13–14/17–18 from the 5.7. 

Naturally, all Tundras will feature stability control, ABS, and, of course, Smart Stop, a genial marketing term for software that reduces engine power when both the accelerator and brake are pushed at the same time. (Yes, the latter is a concession to the unintended-acceleration conflagration of a few years ago.) All new Tundras will have a back-up camera and Bluetooth as standard, with a blind-spot monitoring system and rear cross-traffic alert on the options list for the more-expensive models. SR and SR5 models will ride on 18-inch steel wheels, while the upper grades will get 20-inch aluminum rollers. 

Don’t rush down to your Toyota dealer to buy a new Tundra quite yet, though, as they won’t be available until September. View Photo Gallery

Source;
http://www.caranddriver.com/news/2014-toyota-tundra-photos-and-info-chiseled-looks-carry-over-engines-interior-levels-page-2

Honda Cars : 2013 Honda Ridgeline Arrives with Standard Rearview Camera and Unmatched Combination of Practicality, Efficiency and Value | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

10/03/2012 - TORRANCE, Calif.

After receiving an extensive mid-cycle refresh for 2012, including a new high-value Sport trim level, new front styling and improved fuel efficiency, the Honda Ridgeline returns for 2013 with a rearview camera now standard on all trim levels. The 2013 Honda Ridgeline represents an exclusive and innovative approach in the half-ton pickup truck segment, prioritizing its construction and features based on the capabilities that recreational truck buyers need and use the most. The 2013 Ridgeline goes on sale today and pricing is unchanged for 2013, starting at $29,350¹.

The Honda Ridgeline features a closed-box, uni-body structure and an independent front and rear suspension for a unique combination of capability, interior spaciousness and comfortable ride performance. It also delivers a wide range of conventional pickup capabilities, with a maximum tow rating of 5,000 pounds and a half-ton payload rating, all while offering unique features like a large In-Bed Trunk® with dual-action tailgate for easy access.

Four distinctive Ridgeline models are available, including the Ridgeline RT, Ridgeline Sport, Ridgeline RTS and top-of-the-line Ridgeline RTL, which is available with Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™². The 2013 Ridgeline earns an EPA fuel economy rating of 15/21/17 city/highway/combined³ mpg.

Ridgeline RT features include:
Unique 17-inch steel wheels, integrated trailer hitch, pre-wiring for 7-pin trailer wiring, keyless entry, power windows and door locks, power sliding rear window, air conditioning, tilt steering wheel, cruise control, trip computer with instantaneous and average fuel economy, 6-speaker 100-watt audio system with CD player and MP3/WMA playback capability, rearview camera, and 60/40 split lift-up rear seat with under-seat storage.

Ridgeline Sport features include (adds to Ridgeline RT):
Exclusive black 18-inch aluminum wheels, exclusive black honeycomb grille with black surround, black headlight and brake light housings, fog lights, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, auxiliary audio input jack, all-weather floor mats and rear privacy glass.
Ridgeline RTS features include (adds to Ridgeline RT):

Exclusive 17-inch aluminum wheels, painted inner grille surfaces, body-color painted door handles, 7-pin trailer wiring connector, 8-way power driver's seat with lumbar support, dual-zone automatic climate control, 7-speaker 160-watt audio system with subwoofer, 6-disc in-dash CD system, steering wheel-mounted controls, auxiliary audio input jack, exterior temperature indicator, all-weather floor mats and privacy glass.
Ridgeline RTL features include (adds to Ridgeline RTS):

Exclusive 18-inch aluminum wheels, fog lights, power moonroof, heated side mirrors, leather-trimmed interior with heated front seats, XM Radio⁴, HomeLink® remote system, ambient console lighting, 115-volt power outlet and carpeted floor mats.

The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™² with Voice Recognition and Zagat Survey® restaurant information is available on the Ridgeline RTL. It includes XM® Radio⁴, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® and a multi-information display. The navigation system includes a rearview camera display, thus eliminating this display in the rearview mirror.

Powertrain
The Ridgeline's all-aluminum, 60-degree, SOHC 3.5-liter VTEC V-6 engine produces 250 horsepower at 5,700 rpm and 247 lb-ft. of torque at 4,300 rpm. Variable valve timing enhances low-rpm torque while extending high-rpm horsepower for a broad power band.  The 5-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission features Grade Logic Control to help maintain the most appropriate gear when going uphill or downhill to avoid gear "hunting."

A fully automatic Variable Torque Management® 4-wheel drive system (VTM-4®) provides confident operation in rain, snow, ice, sand and mud, while also improving on-road and towing performance by distributing torque to all four wheels as needed. The system operates predominately in front-wheel-drive during dry-pavement cruising conditions and continuously proportions torque to the rear wheels during acceleration and low traction situations. The VTM-4 lock button located on the instrument panel allows the driver to temporarily hold engagement of both rear wheels to aid traction while in gears "1" and "2" at speeds of up to 18 mph.

Standard towing equipment includes an integrated tow hitch, transmission and oil coolers, heavy duty brakes, dual radiator fans and a wiring harness for a 7-pin trailer hook up (pre-wiring only on RT and Sport).

Body
The unit-body architecture is designed for vastly superior rigidity compared to traditional body-on-frame designs and provides the foundation for the Ridgeline's spacious interior cabin and bed, safety performance and class-leading ride and handling performance. Its modern and athletic design incorporates a solid, one-piece appearance with no separation between the bed and the cab. The windshield wipers have a heated wiper zone to enhance wiper performance in winter driving conditions and minimize ice scraping, while large side mirrors compliment rear vision while towing.
A 5-foot-long composite cargo bed with eight tie-down locations provides a payload rating of 1,100 pounds, while four cargo area lights illuminate both the bed and the in-bed trunk. A dual-action tailgate opens down for traditional access to the cargo area or to the side for ease-of-access to the 8.5 cubic-foot In-Bed Trunk®. The Ridgeline is available with a wide variety of accessories and can conveniently accommodate motorcycles or ATVs. The cargo area measures 49.5 inches wide between the wheel wells, 20.7 inches deep and 60.0 inches long (79.0 inches with the load-supporting tailgate in the down position).

Chassis
A MacPherson strut front suspension and fully independent multi-link rear suspension with trailing arms provide a smooth ride and responsive handling. A heavy-duty braking system includes 12.6-inch front and 13.1-inch rear 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. The Ridgeline RT has 17x7.5-inch steel wheels and P245/65 R17 all-season tires, while the Ridgeline RTS upgrades to 17x7.5-inch aluminum wheels. Ridgeline Sport and Ridgeline RTL models are uniquely equipped with 18x7.5-inch aluminum wheels and all-season P245/60 R18 tires.

Interior
The interior takes advantage of Honda's uni-body packaging efficiency to deliver full-size interior space dimensions while maintaining garage-friendly, mid-size exterior dimensions. The driving position provides ergonomically comfortable access to large and easy-to-use controls.

Between the front seats, a large multi-function console features a sliding armrest and sliding lower tray – each with a hidden storage area. Other console storage areas accommodate large and small items like mobile phones, beverage holders, compact discs and portable digital music players.

The 60/40 lift-up rear seats feature a storage area underneath that is large enough to accommodate a golf bag. Plus, the rear seating area can quickly convert for cargo duty by lifting the seats up to create enough room for a full-size mountain bike with the front wheel removed. The rear seat incorporates three LATCH positions for compatible child safety seats.

Safety
All Ridgelines are equipped with standard safety features including dual-stage, multiple-threshold driver's and front passenger's SRS airbags, front side airbags with a passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS), side-curtain airbags with a rollover sensor, front-seat active head restraints, Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®), a tire pressure monitoring system and daytime running lights.

Awards and Accolades
The 2012 Ridgeline received the highest possible TOP SAFETY PICK rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), earning the highest-possible score of GOOD in all four IIHS ratings, including the rigorous roof-strength test. In addition, in J.D. Power and Associates' Initial Quality StudySM (IQS) for 2011, the Ridgeline earned the highest initial quality score in the midsize pickup segment.

Warranty
The 2013 Honda Ridgeline is covered by a 3-year/36,000-mile new-car limited warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain limited warranty, and a 5-year/unlimited-mile corrosion limited warranty.

Ridgeline Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Pricing¹
Ridgeline RT: $29,350
Ridgeline Sport:  $30,095
Ridgeline RTS:  $32,055
Ridgeline RTL:  $34,930
Ridgeline RTL with Navigation: $37,280
Connect with Honda:­
Media Newsroom (for journalists): http://www.hondanews.com/channels/honda-automobiles-ridgeline
For consumers: http://automobiles.honda.com/ridgeline/
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/honda
Flickr: www.flickr.com/hondanews
Twitter: www.twitter.com/honda
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hondaridgeline
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/honda/
On Google+
¹ MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, $830 destination charge and options. Dealer prices may vary.
² The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ is available on the Ridgeline RTL in the United States, except Alaska. Please see your Honda dealer for details.
³ Based on 2013 EPA mileage estimates. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.
⁴ Required XM Radio subscription sold separately after 90-day trial period. Subscriptions are governed by the XM Customer Agreement available at xmradio.com/serviceterms. Other fees and taxes apply after trial period; see XM Customer Agreement for details. Fees and programming subject to change. Service not available in Canada, Alaska, or Hawaii. 2012 SIRIUS XM Radio Inc. SIRIUS, XM and all related marks and logos are trademarks of SIRIUS XM Radio Inc. and its subsidiaries.
Third-party trademarks: The Bluetooth word mark and logos are owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc., and any use of such marks by Honda Motor Co., Ltd., is under license.

Source;
http://www.hondanews.com/channels/corporate-headlines/releases/2013-honda-ridgeline-arrives-with-standard-rearview-camera-and-unmatched-combination-of-practicality-efficiency-and-value

Honda Cars : 2013 Honda Ridgeline for Canada | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Trim Packages will be the same as the 2012's, however Honda has expanded the colour choices on the Ridgeline Sport by adding Silver to the Black or White mix.  2014 is the year that Honda has slotted for a full redesign.

Trim Levels and colours available;

2013 Honda Ridgeline DX
NH-578 White Exterior
NH-731P Black Exterior
NH-737M Grey Exterior

2013 Honda Ridgeline VP (Value Package)
NH-700MX Silver Exterior
NH-578 White Exterior
NH-731PX Black Exterior
NH737M Grey Exterior
B-588P Blue Exterior
R-529PX Red Exterior

2013 Honda Ridgeline Touring
Colours same as above

2013 Honda Ridgeline SPORT
NH-578 White Exterior
NH700M Silver Exterior
NH-731PX Black Exterior

Source;
Honda Canada

Honda Cars : Toyota Hilux and Fortuner – 2.5L VNT D-4D intercooled engine 2012 MY versions coming, order books open | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Huh, I did not know that Toyota had a small Ridgeline like this.... BTW, this won't be sold in North America.

UMW Toyota has announced the estimated on-the-road prices for its Toyota Hilux pick-up truck and Toyota Fortuner SUV 2012 model year improvement models, which are due, we hear, sometime in October 2012, with bookings now open for the two vehicles.

The Hilux facelift arrived last September, so don’t expect that there to be radical changes to features and kit. There’s a noticeable revision in power output though, specifically for the 2.5 litre Double Cab model.

A check on the UMWT website says numbers for the 3.0 Hilux’s powertrain remain as is – the 1KD-FTV D-4D commonrail diesel with Variable Nozzle Turbo continues to offer 163 PS and 343 Nm of torque from 1,400 to 3,200 rpm.

The Hilux Double Cab 2.5G, however, has now gone the VNT route, and features a higher power and torque output courtesy of its 2KD-FTV mill, these being 144 PS at 3,400 rpm and 343 Nm at 1,600 to 2,800 rpm.

This is a significant increase from the 102 PS and 260 Nm from 1,600 to 2,400 rpm as seen in the facelift that arrived last year. The four-speed ECT transmission has been retained for the automatic variant, according to data from the website.

Source (will more pictures);
http://paultan.org/2012/08/13/toyota-hilux-and-fortuner-2012-my-improvement-versions-coming-soon-order-books-open/

Honda Cars : Hyundai Says No, But Kia Could Say Yes to Trucks | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Hmmmm..... interesting....
Don't expect Hyundai to step into the pickup truck segment anytime soon, as company President and CEO John Krafcik is not interested in repeating the same mistakes other automotive manufactuers have made.

"Our brand resonates best with families, but that's where we have the lowest market penetration. There's tremendous upside for us in crossovers. ... More seven-passenger crossover capacity is No. 1 on our priority list for the U.S," he said.

Phelan suggests this will likely mean Hyundai won't jump into the van (minivan or other) or pickup truck segment, and that makes sense. Hyundai has done a pretty good job lately of creating some buzz for its mainstream Genesis, Elantra, Sonata and eye-catching Veloster.

"When we looked at other companies in their growth phase, this (over-expansion) was where the train came off the track," and pressure to boost production led to quality snafus, Krafcik said. Our guess he's talking specfically about Toyota's multibillion-dollar endeavor in San Antonio.

Still, with a seven-passenger, rear-wheel-drive crossover in the works, a good amount of money already dedicated to rear-drive platforms and some new hybrid powertrain technologies, it would not be a stretch for Hyundai's "downmarket" player, Kia, to make a play in the pickup truck segment. The Kia Mojove concept was floated around about 10 years ago, and that was when the company wasn't doing nearly as well or had access to nearly as many resources.

Maybe Hyundai isn't ready to step into the realm of a small- or medium-sized pickup truck, but Kia certainly could, and it could likely have some interesting design and technology options at its disposal. In 2004, Kia played with the idea of a half-ton competitor for the U.S., called the KCV-4 Mojave, but the project was officially killed in 2008 because of unstable gas prices and shrinking interest in a small pickup. At that time, the vehicle was to be based off the new Kia Sorento (concept design by Stanley Ivan pictured).

Whether or not something new could be based off another larger or smaller SUV or crossover remains to be seen. (Remember the Soulster?) Regardless, it almost certainly would require a new assembly plant or some serious modifications to an existing facility. For now, it looks like we'll have to wait and see, but they do have options.

Source;
http://news.pickuptrucks.com/2012/02/hyundai-says-no-but-kia-could-say-yes.html

Honda Cars : 2012 Honda Ridgeline Adds New Sport Model, More Style and Fuel Efficiency | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Updates include a new Ridgeline Sport model, new front styling and improved fuel efficiency on all models
11/02/2011 - TORRANCE, Calif.
Honda's four-door, five-passenger pickup receives styling upgrades and improved highway fuel economy for 2012, along with a new Ridgeline Sport model that provides high-value features targeted at the entry four-wheel-drive truck segment.

The 2012 Ridgeline is now available in four models, including the Ridgeline RT, new Ridgeline Sport, Ridgeline RTS and Ridgeline RTL. Upgrades on all models for 2012 include a refreshed grille design, aerodynamic improvements, friction reduction measures in the engine and a new EPA fuel rating of 15/21/17 city/highway/combined mpg, up 1 mpg in the highway rating.

The new Ridgeline Sport model adds the following features to the Ridgeline RT: exclusive black 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels (+1 inch from RT steel wheels); exclusive black honeycomb grille with black surround; leather wrapped steering wheel with audio controls; auxiliary audio input jack; fog lights; rear privacy glass; all weather floor mats and black headlight and brake light housings.

The Ridgeline represents an exclusive and innovative approach in the half-ton pickup truck segment by prioritizing its construction and features based on the capabilities that many recreational truck buyers typically need and use. The Ridgeline is built with a closed-box, unitized body structure for a unique combination of capability, interior spaciousness and comfortable ride performance from its independent front and rear suspension. It also delivers a wide range of conventional pickup capabilities with a maximum tow rating of 5,000 pounds and a half-ton payload rating, all while offering unique features like a large In-Bed Trunk®.

Functionally Innovative Exterior
The unit-body architecture is designed for vastly superior rigidity compared to traditional body-on-frame designs and provides the foundation for the Ridgeline's spacious interior cabin and bed, safety performance and class-leading ride and handling performance. The Ridgeline's modern and athletic design incorporates a solid, one-piece appearance with no separation between the bed and the cab. Large side mirrors compliment rear vision while towing. The windshield wipers have a heated wiper zone to enhance wiper performance in cold, winter driving conditions and minimize ice scraping.

A 5-foot-long composite cargo bed with eight tie-down locations provides a payload rating of 1,100 pounds. Four cargo area lights illuminate both the bed and the in-bed trunk. A dual-action tailgate opens down for traditional access to the cargo area or to the side for ease-of-access to the 8.5 cubic-foot In-Bed Trunk®. The Ridgeline is available with a wide variety of accessories and can conveniently accommodate motorcycles and ATVs. The cargo area measures 49.5 inches wide between the wheel wells, 20.7 inches deep and 60.0 inches long (79.0 inches with the load-supporting tailgate in the down position).

Roomy and Comfortable Interior
The interior takes advantage of Honda's unit-body packaging efficiency to deliver full-size interior space dimensions while maintaining a garage-friendly, mid-size exterior footprint. The driving position provides ergonomically comfortable access to large and easy-to-use controls.
Ridgeline's large multi-function console features a sliding armrest and sliding lower tray – each with a hidden storage area. Other console storage areas accommodate items both large and small like mobile phones, beverages, compact discs and portable digital music players.

The 60/40 lift-up rear seats feature a storage area underneath large enough to accommodate a golf bag. Plus, the rear seating area can quickly convert for cargo duty by lifting the seats up to create enough room for a full-size mountain bike with the front tire removed. The rear seat incorporates three LATCH positions for compatible child safety seats.

Strong, Versatile Performance
Ridgeline's all-aluminum, 60-degree, SOHC 3.5-liter VTEC engine produces 250 horsepower at 5,700 rpm and 247 lb-ft. of torque at 4,300 rpm. Variable valve timing enhances low rpm torque while extending high rpm horsepower for a broad power band. The 5-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission features Grade Logic Control to help maintain the most appropriate gear when going uphill or downhill to avoid gear "hunting." The fully automatic Variable Torque Management® 4-wheel drive system (VTM-4®) provides confident operation in rain, snow, ice, sand and mud, while also improving on-road and towing performance by distributing torque to all four wheels as needed. The system operates predominately in front-wheel-drive during dry-pavement cruising conditions and continuously proportions torque to the rear wheels during acceleration and low traction situations. VTM-4 lock button located on the instrument panel allows the driver to temporarily hold engagement of both rear wheels to aid traction while in gears "1" and "2" at speeds of up to 18 mph.

Standard equipment for towing includes an integrated tow hitch, transmission and oil coolers, heavy duty brakes, dual radiator fans and a wiring harness for a seven-pin trailer hook up (pre-wiring only on RT and Sport).

Chassis Specifications
Fully independent, a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link with trailing arm rear suspension provide a smooth ride and responsive handling. A heavy-duty braking system includes 12.6-inch front and 13.1-inch rear 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. The Ridgeline RT has 17x7.5-inch steel wheels and P245/65 R17 all-season tires, while the Ridgeline RTS upgrades to 17x7.5-inch aluminum alloy wheels. Ridgeline Sport and Ridgeline RTL models are uniquely equipped with 18x7.5-inch aluminum alloy wheels and all-season P245/60 R18 tires.

Committed to Safety
All Ridgelines are equipped with these standard safety features: advanced dual-state, multiple-threshold driver's and front passenger's SRS airbags; front side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS); two-row side-curtain airbags with a rollover sensor; front-seat active head restraints; a tire pressure monitoring system; and daytime running lights. Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®), commonly referred to as electronic stability control, can apply braking force to a wheel with low traction and direct driving force to the wheel with more traction.

Standard and Available Features
Standard features on the Ridgeline RT include: integrated trailer hitch; pre-wiring for seven-pin trailer wiring; trip computer with instantaneous and average fuel economy; air conditioning; tilt steering wheel; power windows and door locks; power sliding rear window; cruise control; keyless entry; automatic heated wiper zone; six-speaker, 100-watt audio system with CD player and MP3/WMA playback capability; and 60/40 split lift-up rear seat with under-seat storage.

The new Ridgeline Sport model adds the following features to the Ridgeline RT: exclusive black 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels (+1 inch from RT steel wheels); exclusive black honeycomb grille with black surround; leather wrapped steering wheel with audio controls; auxiliary audio input jack; fog lights; rear privacy glass; all weather floor mats and black headlight and brake light housings.

The Ridgeline RTS adds the following to the RT: exclusive 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, a seven-pin trailer wiring connector, body-color painted door handles, painted inner grille surfaces, a seven-speaker 160-watt audio system with subwoofer, six-disc in-dash CD system, steering wheel-mounted controls, an auxiliary audio input jack; dual-zone automatic climate control, an eight-way power driver's seat with lumbar support, privacy glass and all-weather floor mats.

Exclusive Ridgeline RTL features include leather-trimmed interior with heated front seats, exclusive 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels, fog lights, moonroof, 115-volt power outlet, XM Radio1, HomeLink® remote system, carpeted floor mats and a compass in the rearview mirror.

The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™2 with Voice Recognition and Zagat Survey® restaurant information is available on RTL models. It includes XM Radio3, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®, a multi-information display and a back-up camera display. The navigation system includes a compass, thus eliminating the compass in the rearview mirror.

Source;
http://www.hondanews.com/channels/corporate-headlines/releases/2012-honda-ridgeline-adds-new-sport-model-more-style-and-fuel-efficiency

Honda Cars : Detroit News: Honda says slow-selling Ridgeline stays | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Honda Motor Co. refuted reports Tuesday that it was phasing out its Ridgeline pickup.

"The reports in the media that we have plans to discontinue the Ridgeline pickup truck are false," said Sage Marie, manager of truck product planning at American Honda.

"To the contrary, Ridgeline has a significant role in the Honda lineup, and it is expected to continue in the foreseeable future," he said.

Marie noted that Honda had already announced the 2012 Ridgeline will feature new styling cues, improved fuel efficiency and a new Sport variant.

U.S. sales of the Ridgeline, an unusual, award-winning pickup designed and built on a unibody platform, have slumped by half this year to 6,500 from 12,700 compared with the first nine months of 2010.

Honda has struggled this year with output disruptions because of the March earthquake, and it halted production of the Ridgeline for three months in March. During that period, the tooling to make the truck was moved to another line at the Lincoln, Ala., plant, and production resumed in August.

"It is too early to talk publicly about the details of our future plans for Ridgeline," Marie said. "It will remain an important part of the Honda product portfolio."

Source;
http://detnews.com/article/20111004/AUTO01/110040402/Honda-says-slow-selling-Ridgeline-stays#ixzz1a0e0HLYh

Honda Cars : Sales sputter, but Honda committed to Ridgeline pickup | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Last week it was reported that Honda was going to retire the Ridgeline, well, looks like those reports may have been false, let's hope so....
LINCOLN, Alabama -- Ridgeline pickups will continue to roll off the assembly line at Honda's Alabama factory, the automaker says, despite reports that the low-selling model has reached the end of the road.

In August, the Ridgeline went back into production in Lincoln, following a five-month hiatus brought on by a parts shortage that forced Honda to limit output on a wide range of models.
But even though it's back, questions persist. Introduced in 2005, the Ridgeline's annual sales peaked in 2006 and have fallen every year since then.

There's been plenty of speculation about the pickup's demise, and a recent report from Automotive News says that will happen in 2013.

Honda, however, disputes the report.

"The Ridgeline's not going anywhere," said Honda spokesman Chuck Schifsky. "There is no plan currently underway or any plan in the works to kill the Ridgeline."

At the moment, Schifsky said, the Ridgeline plays a key role for Honda buyers and Honda dealers.

"We feel it's important to have a pickup truck in the lineup," he said. "We made a significant investment of time and money to move it into the Alabama plant, so that should speak to our commitment to the vehicle."

Production of the Ridgeline moved from Canada to Alabama in 2009, a shift that helped Honda build more of the popular Civic sedan in Canada.

It also kept the 4,000-worker Lincoln plant busy, as demand for the facility's key products -- the Odyssey minivan and Pilot SUV -- had waned in a global sales slump.

But the Ridgeline has struggled to find a wide audience, despite gaining industry accolades for design and quality. In the latest nod, it topped the midsize pickup category in this year's J.D. Power and Associates U.S. Initial Quality Survey.

"It's a clever vehicle because it straddles that line between being a passenger car and a utility vehicle," said Michael Jordan, executive editor for Edmunds.com. "It's a vehicle for people who drive cars but need the utility of a truck."

But that combo also can be a liability.

For one thing, it's viewed by some as a "city boys' truck," Jordan said, noting its car-like attributes, including four doors, five-passenger seating and other styling cues.

Pricing also can be an issue.

"Even though a fully-optioned pickup can be a $40,000 proposition, a stripped-down one can be $25,000 or $28,000," Jordan said.

The 2011 Ridgeline starts at $29,150.

During its introduction year of 2005, sales of the Ridgeline totaled 42,593. The next year, sales topped 50,000, the highest they have ever been.

In 2007, sales slid to 42,795, and they continue to drop. In 2010, sales totaled 16,142, and through the first eight months of this year, sales trail last year by 49 percent.

Part of the problem this year has been a radical depletion of inventory. Last spring's earthquake in Japan damaged Honda supplier operations, creating a parts shortage and forcing the automaker to curb vehicle output across North America.

But while production of the Odyssey and Pilot were scaled back in Lincoln, Ridgeline was halted completely.

In mid-March, the plant stopped building the pickup, which was due to be transferred from Assembly Line 1 to Assembly Line 2 as part of a previously scheduled shift. But the completion of the transfer was delayed because of the parts supply issue, so no market-ready Ridgelines were built until production was restarted on Aug. 17.

The plant has now returned to full steam, including Odyssey and Pilot production.

The 2012 Ridgeline is scheduled to go on sale in November. As for upcoming design changes, including speculation that the Ridgeline could morph into a smaller pickup, Honda usually doesn't talk about future products.

"The fact that we're saying it's going to be around is an important statement," Schifsky said. "Where it goes in terms of marketing, sales and redesign, we'll have to wait and see."

Whatever the future holds for the Ridgeline, the Lincoln plant has a bright future, Jordan said.

"Clearly that platform can be adapted to other utility-style platforms," he said.

The plant has demonstrated its flexibility in recent years. Along with the Ridgeline, production of the Honda Accord was brought in during the industry sales slump.

Accord production ceased there last year, but the Acura MDX, an SUV made under Honda's luxury brand, is scheduled to arrive in Lincoln in 2013.

Jordan said the Ridgeline has always been a niche model, not a mass-market pickup such as the Ford F-150, the best-selling vehicle in the U.S.

"It's a funny vehicle. All the people who criticize it either really want a truck or a car, so they don't want a Ridgeline to begin with," he said.

But the Ridgeline does have an ardent group of followers.

"The problem is, there's just not enough of them," he said.

Source;
http://blog.al.com/businessnews/2011/09/sales_sputter_but_honda_commit.html

Honda Cars : Why the Honda Ridgeline pickup is driving off into the sunset | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Here we go again, according to Autoweek, the Ridgeline is going to be phased out. C'mon Honda, this is a really nice truck and by not coming out with a full redesign by your own 5yrs standards (you do this for a reason on other products, why not here!?!) you've hurt this truck. Alot of people that own one now would buy a redesign, I am on the front lines and see it all the time! People don't want the same thing every year (hmm Element come to mind?).
The Honda Ridgeline is a good example of what happens when an automaker abandons a model.
After much fanfare with its introduction in 2005, little was done to upgrade the mid-sized pickup. Ridgeline's plummeting sales are no surprise considering the lack of sheet metal changes and significant engineering improvements over the seven-year period.

The pickup's best year was 2006 when 50,193 sales were tallied. After that point, it's been all down hill. Last year, sales for the 12-month period totaled a 16,142, a 2 percent drop from the previous year. This year's sales through August nosedived 49 percent, to 5,776 vehicles.

While the Honda Ridgeline does not fill everyone's pickup needs, nor was it intended to so, it is a credible pickup. Despite the fact that it was developed off a front-drive platform, it has a 1,500-pound-plus payload capacity and tows up tow 5,000 pounds. Four-wheel drive is standard.

And, from what I hear, Ridgeline owners like the pickup, especially the towing capability, the ride, the handling, and the standard tailgate that swings down or to the side like a door.

Honda doesn't talk about future products. But Automotive News reported last month that the Honda Ridgeline will be discontinued in about two years. Based on conversations with industry sources, the story said a smaller pickup is under consideration, derived from the Honda CR-V platform.

Presuming less payload and towing capacity than the Ridgeline, I can't imagine why a smaller pickup based on a front-drive platform would be a more successful product formula for Honda.

Source;
http://www.autoweek.com/article/20110909/CARNEWS/110909864#ixzz1XYpAAqDj

Honda Cars : R.I.P. Mazda RX-8 and Chrysler/Dodge Dakota Truck | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Well, I guess for Mazda this paves the way for a new RX-7....

Mazda Motor Corp. has canceled production of its RX-8 rotary engine sports car, citing falling sales and stringent global emissions standards.

Production in Hiroshima, Japan, ended in early July and global sales of the car will conclude later this year.

The RX-8 and the three generations of the RX-7 that preceded it have long been the foundation the brand's fun-to-drive aura. The car's high-revving 1.3-liter, twin-rotor rotary engine produces 232 hp at 8,500 rpm--a big punch in a relatively small package.

But Mazda sold just 1,134 RX-8s last year, a 49 percent decline from 2009. Sales through July this year were down another 21 percent.

The RX-8, which has a base price of $27,590, including shipping, peaked at 23,690 sales in 2004. But the first-generation RX-7 surpassed 50,000 units throughout the early 1980s.

Mazda's U.S. dealers had 300 units in stock as of Aug. 1 for a 118-day supply, according to the Automotive News Data Center.

Mazda pulled the RX-8 from the European market last year after the car failed to meet local emissions standards. Without volume from Europe, Mazda couldn't justify selling the RX-8, a Mazda source said.

Exporting vehicles from Japan also has become more difficult. The yen's rise vs. the dollar was a major reason why Mazda's North American operating losses from April through June grew nearly threefold to ¥7.9 billion, or about $97.6 million, from the same quarter last year.

This isn't the first time that Mazda has dropped its rotary engine sports car from the U.S. lineup. The RX-7 was pulled after the 1995 model year. A rotary-powered car didn't return to American showrooms until the 2003 introduction of the RX-8.

And the RX-8's demise may not be the end of the rotary engine at Mazda. A source says engineers in Hiroshima are still working on the next generation, 1.6-liter rotary engine, code-named 16X, that is said to have lower emissions, better fuel economy and more power.

When unveiled at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show, the 16X had an enlarged elliptical shape for the combustion chamber and an enlarged eccentric center stroke in the rotor. Mazda also planned direct-injection fuel delivery in a rotary engine for the first time.

But the 16X project has been on the back burner since the financial crisis. The company chose to focus its r&d resources on its fuel-saving SkyActiv technologies that debut later this year.

Still, Jim O'Sullivan, CEO of Mazda North American Operations, said "the rotary is alive and well within Mazda." While declining to comment on the progress of the 16X, O'Sullivan said: "We are studying what's the best way to come back to the market with the rotary."

Source;

http://www.autoweek.com/article/20110822/CARNEWS/110829973#ixzz1VmqVilzV

********************************************************

It’s the end of the line for production of the Ram Dakota, The Detroit News is reporting. The neglected and forgotten Dakota has long been an afterthought to the Ram 1500, the bread and butter of the Ram line.

The Warren Truck Plant where the Dakota is built also builds the Ram 1500. So far 39 temporary workers have been let go due to the end of Dakota production. The UAW expects the number could reach 150 or more.

As we reported last year, Chrysler has been mulling over the Dakotas replacement for some time now. The consensus seems to be that the slow-selling Dakota will eventually be replaced by a unibody compact pickup truck, aimed more at customers who buy trucks for their looks, not their utility. Think Dodge M-80 concept, or Rampage concept, as the Dakota’s replacement will be more show than go when it debuts within the next few years.

No decision has yet been made about where to build the Dakota’s replacement.

Source;

http://rumors.automobilemag.com/chrysler-ends-dakota-pickup-production-70167.html

Honda Cars : Honda Spyshot: 2012 Honda Ridgeline | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

We recently covered the 2012 Honda Ridgeline's new Sport trim package (pic below), which adds several exterior changes to our favorite unibody pickup. But if you're wondering about changes to other models, our spies have come through with the photos Honda doesn't want you to see.



Other Ridgeline models, including the high-end RTL version caught here during hot weather testing, are set to receive a new three-bar grille that's similar to the 2012 Honda Pilot crossover's grille, plus restyled taillights. We hear there will be several minor interior changes as well.

Officially, Honda says there will also be a slight boost in EPA mileage ratings for the 2012 Ridgeline in addition to the cosmetic updates. The 2011 Ridgeline is rated at 15/20 mpg city/highway and 17 mpg combined.



On sale November 2011.



Source;

http://news.pickuptrucks.com/2011/08/spied-2012-honda-ridgeline-rtl.html

Honda Cars : 2012 Honda Ridgeline Sport Package Revealed | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

The 2012 model year brings a new trim level and some visual revisions for Honda's Ridgeline truck. The new trim is optimistically called Sport -- it doesn't entail any sporty performance upgrades, but does bring aesthetic modifications to make the Ridgeline look a little cooler.

The key word for the Ridgeline Sport is black, as the color is applied to the head-, fog-, and taillight bezels; the mirrors; door handles; unique honeycomb grille; and 18-inch wheels. It's a cool look, but we wonder whether the Sport label is truly justified by what's essentially just a collection of blacked-out body parts. From what we can tell, the Sport will sport much of the same equipment as a typical Ridgeline RT model.

New duds aren't limited to this black-on-black model, as Honda will graft a new grille design onto every 2012 Ridgeline. There are no pictures of the non-Sport model, but our money says the Ridgeline will score the same chrome-slat grille design as the 2012 Pilot.

The 2012 Ridgeline is said to boast improved fuel economy; the 250-hp 3.5-liter V-6 engine will probably remain unchanged while the five-speed automatic transmission could be swapped for a six-speed unit, like that used on the Acura MDX, which rides upon a similar platform. The truck is currently EPA-rated at 15/20 mpg (city/highway). The new Ridgeline (and the Sport variant) goes on sale this November.

Source;

http://www.trucktrend.com/features/news/2011/163_news110725_2012_honda_ridgeline/index.html

Honda Cars : Report: Chrysler developing TR Ram Life Style Truck to compete with Honda Ridgeline | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Does the world need a competitor to the Honda Ridgeline? While sales figures of Honda's half-truck would lead us to believe consumers aren't clamoring for such a vehicle (Honda only sold 16,142 Ridgelines in 2010, barely more than the 13,047 Dakota's Dodge moved), recent reports indicate that Chrysler seems to think otherwise.

We've known for some time that Dodge was considering a small urban-style pickup – ever since it showed off the Rampage Concept (shown above) at the 2006 Chicago Auto Show and then mentioned it again in Chrysler's rambling five-year plan announced in 2009 – but talk of the so-called Lifestyle Pickup had cooled off... until now.

According to wheels.ca, Chrysler suppliers were recently briefed on the automaker's future product plans, and a replacement for the unloved Dakota is on the docket. It's thought that Chrysler may build the vehicle in Windsor, Ontario atop its minivan platform, which lends credence to the Ridgeline comparison.

We have to wonder if the crossover platform employed by the latest (and very well-received) Durango might be a better bet, but we'll surely reserve judgement until something more concrete than these rumors begin to surface. We're also curious as to whether the small pickup would wear a Dodge or Ram badge. Stay tuned for more...

Source;
http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/18/chrysler-developing-tr-ram-life-style-truck-to-compete-with-hond/

Honda Cars : MotorTrend: First Look: Chevrolet Colorado Show Truck | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Nice looking concept, wonder if this is going to have anything really new (in bed trunk or something like), Chevy is sure committed to that Malibu front end....
Ahead of its public debut at the Bangkok Auto Show, General Motors has taken the wraps off of the preview version of its next-generation midsize pickup, which has been (not so) imaginatively dubbed the Chevrolet Colorado Show Truck.

Why Thailand? As it so happens, the southeast Asian country is the number one market for midsize trucks in the world and about 43% of the new cars sold there are trucks.

Technical details on the Show Truck are few. GM has said that under the hood is a 2.8-liter turbodiesel engine and that it's equipped with all-wheel drive, which helps to lend it a taller stance. GM currently uses a 2.8-liter diesel inline-four in the Brazilian-market Chevrolet S-10, where it makes roughly 138 horsepower and 251 pound-feet of torque. It's likely that the Colorado Show Truck is employing a version of this mill.

The extended-cab truck sports the same dual-port grille that's become a signature of Chevrolet's design. In this case, it looks much like that of the Malibu midsize sedan. The truck rides on 20-inch aluminum wheels fitted with off-road tires and its exterior features details such as LED turn-signals in the rear-view mirrors, Pepperdust Metallic paint with aluminum details in the fascias, projector-style headlamps with LED accents, and LED taillamps. GM vice president of global design Ed Welburn says that "its broad-shoulders proportions are derived from nearly a century of Chevrolet truck heritage."

Much time and money was reportedly spent on the interior. It features a dual-cockpit instrument panel that flows into the doors that's highlighted by motorcycle-inspired, three-dimensional gauges in the instrument panel. Other interior details include contrasting trim, chrome accents, and soft-touch materials. There are copious storage compartments throughout the cabin, including a covered center console and dual glovebox. The truck is also equipped with dual-zone climate control and a seven-inch LCD display in the center stack.

As for whether the truck will replace the existing U.S.-market Colorado/Canyon, GM continues to remain silent. However, a GM official we spoke with said that the automaker has no plans to abandon the midsize truck market and that a new version of the truck is on the way. We're betting it will come out looking much like the show truck, with different engine options and a steering wheel on left side, of course.

Whatever it ends up being, it will surely built somewhere in the NAFTA area to avoid the so-called "Chicken Tax" that makes importing trucks from countries like Thailand unprofitable. GM says details for the production model will come later in the year, so stay tuned.

Source (with more pix!);
http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/trucks/1103_chevrolet_colorado_show_truck_look/index.html

Honda Cars : Honda says it will keep Ridgeline pickup | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

This coincides with what I've been told;
http://bestscoops.blogspot.com/2010/11/rumours.html
If you had any thoughts that Honda might be having misgivings about the truck business, banish them. The youth-oriented Element crossover may be dying, but the Ridgeline pickup will go on.

That's the word from Executive Vice President John Mendel of Honda's U.S. unit, who was quick to squash rumors that Ridgeline, the brand's quirky little truck, could be next on the chopping block. Honda sold 16,142 Ridgelines last year, almost the same as in 2009, but paltry in comparison to truck models from other makers. Toyota, for instance, sold 106,198 of its small Tacoma pickups. General Motors sold 24,642 of its Chevrolet Colorado small pickup truck.

Mendel says Ridgeline has developed a strong following and it increases Honda's "share of garage." It's small truck, yet has a four-door cab, a short bed and a hidden compartment in back.

"We think we have a ways to go on the Ridgeline," he said. It increases Honda's "share of garage." But he wouldn't say when, or commit, to a next generation build for Ridgeline. Honda announced late last year that it will kill the Element, a practical, boxy crossover originally aimed at surfers, bikers and other youthful fun seekers.

Source;
http://content.usatoday.com/communities/driveon/post/2011/01/honda-ridgeline-element-retained/1

Honda Cars : Next Gen Honda Ridgeline | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Well, although there has been alot of speculation as to whether Honda will continue with a Next Generation Ridgeline Truck, I for one think that the current market conditions are ripe for it! Light truck sales have been strong and there have been quite a few inquiries into what Honda has planned for the next Ridgeline.

Try as I may, I haven't seen any concept drawing or anything! Whatever Honda has planned, they are keeping their cards close to their chest!

So, here begins the "What Should Honda do to the Next Ridgeline".... Post your ideas in the comments section, and let's see what comes up, who knows, maybe Honda's listening....

Honda Cars : Autonet.ca Review; 2010 (2011) Honda Ridgeline Truck | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Here's a nice review on the 2010, but you could substitute eveything said for the 2011, no changes....

Photos by -Autonet.ca
Daniel Barron

Published: 07 09 2010
Ridgeline the young upstart

Buying a pickup often isn’t a matter of going to the nearest dealership and picking one in your favourite colour. There’s a lot more to consider, whether it’s engine type, cab size, bed length, drivetrain, option packages, and more.

There’s one vehicle that bucks this trend, though - the Honda Ridgeline. Every model in its four trim line-up is outfitted with the same engine, is equipped with all-wheel drive, and features the same crew cab and bed length. The only real difference between the trims is the number of creature comforts in each.

Though no one will claim Ridgeline is meant to take on the responsibilities of a heavy duty beast like a Ford F-350 or Ram 2500, it’s more than adequate at the slightly-less demanding jobs of a smaller truck.

Ridgeline is equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 that produces a generous 250-horsepower and 247 lb.-ft. of torque. That’s at the very least in the ballpark of most V6-equipped competitors, if not a lot more. Its 5,000 lb. standard towing capacity is also ahead of many competitors, and it’s worth noting that most other trucks in the segment need additional towing or off-road packages before they hit the 5,000 mark, which often equates to more moolah.

The Ridgeline has a 1,550 lb. payload capacity as well, which is also well ahead of many competitors, including the Chevrolet Canyon, Nissan Frontier and Toyota Tacoma.

Once the comparisons on paper are done, though, Ridgeline proves itself as an able-bodied, easy-to-use truck when it’s actually called upon to get its tires dirty. Its automatic all-wheel drive system can be locked in first, second or reverse gear when it’s gotten in (the mud) too deep.

There are no fancy-schmancy footholds or poles to help step into the bed, but you need not worry about scuffing up the steel-reinforced bed when you throw stuff in. Though the heavy duty tie down hooks throughout the bed aren’t adjustable, there are eight of them in total, which should be sufficient for most jobs.

All Ridgelines come standard with a seven-pin trailer connection, pre-wiring for trailer brake control, and heavy duty front and rear tow hooks.

The five-foot truck bed simply may not be enough for some jobs at the work site, but what that shorter bed allows for is a very roomy cabin. We’ll eat our left arm if we hear of anyone complaining about the room in the front or back seats of the Ridgeline. Loading three passengers in the rear may be pushing it a bit, but there’s all kinds of room for four occupants in total.

Opting for the EX-L with Navi package will give you all sorts of extra features, from Bluetooth, to ambient lighting, to dual-zone climate control; but this is still all truck inside. Large grips surround the door handles, while knobs are big and easy to manipulate for the large-of-hand.
The rear seats, meanwhile, can easily be flipped up or put back down in a single motion with one hand, and the centre console can be configured in all sorts of ways to hold as much or as little as necessary depending on how busy your day is.

That’s not to mention the exterior, with its dual-action tailgate that flips down like a standard truck, but can also swing out like a door. The in-bed trunk is great not just for keeping beverages cold during tailgating, but for stowing expensive items. Best of all, it can be locked and unlocked with the rest of the vehicle using the key fob (no need to fumble trying to get a key into a lock).

It would seem all too easy to ignore the young Ridgeline for more well-established models from General Motors, Toyota or Dodge, but there’s simply no denying that Honda’s pickup truck is a capable performer.

Summary:
Year/Make/Model
2010 Honda Ridgeline
Price as tested
$43,690
Trim level
EX-L
Price range
$34,990 - $41,490
Freight
$1,590
Options
Navigation pkg ($2,200) inc. Bluetooth and rearview camera.
EnerGuide fuel economy ratings
14.1 L/100km city; 9.8 L/100km hwy
Observed fuel economy
14.2 L/100km over 439 km
Warranty (basic)
3 years/60,000 km
Warranty (powertrain)
5 years/100,000 km

Competitors
Chevrolet Colorado; Dodge Dakota; Nissan Frontier; Toyota Tacoma

Strong Points
- storage
- comfort
- ride

Weak Points

- fuel economy
- one configuration

Editors Rating:
Fuel consumption
The V6 engine is forced to work hard.

Value for price
Somewhat pricey, especially with tempting aftermarket features.

Styling
Stylish and unique, yet looks the part of a rugged little truck.

Comfort
Lots of space for four, with very good handling and ride.

Performance
Above average towing and payload numbers.

overall
Not a whole lot to complain about.

Source;

http://www.autonet.ca/autos/search/testdrives/2010/08/27/15159106-autonet.html

Honda Cars : 2011 Honda Ridgeline Changes for Canada | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

The 2011 Honda Ridgeline will be the same as the 2010 with the exception of colour changes, no word on those yet, stay tuned....

*UPDATE* Here they are....

From Concept to Ridgeline
Honda's approach to building a truck was to start with a clean slate and create a unique and integrated overall package with distinct advantages that make it a comfortable people hauler, a confident cargo transporter and a practical everyday driver. Traditional truck buyers have had to forego a secure and integrated trunk, athletic driving performance, fuel economy and some passenger comfort in exchange for utility that often exceeds their needs. The Ridgeline addresses those trade-offs and either eliminates or minimizes the choices that must be made between everyday practicality and all-around utility.

This "clean slate" approach was rewarded with the Ridgeline being recognized as both the Motor Trend and North American Truck of the Year in its first year on the market.

Honda Ridgeline: A Next-Generation Four-Door 4WD Truck - Restyled
The Honda Ridgeline re-defines what a truck can be with its true half-ton truck payload capability, an interior similar to a full-size truck and the exterior length of a compact truck. Built on a segment-first closed box unibody frame that combines the strength of a ladder frame with the many advantages of a unibody design, the Ridgeline adds refinement, handling performance, innovative In-Bed Trunk™ and packaging previously unattainable with a traditional body-on-frame truck design. Designed to meet the needs of a growing population of consumers purchasing trucks to support their active, outdoor oriented lifestyles, the Ridgeline delivers the right mix of overall truck capability, towing performance, ruggedness and value in a fun-to-drive and responsible vehicle.

The Ridgeline fuses the core capabilities of a truck, including towing, hauling and off-roading, with traditional Honda strengths including high value, world-class engineering, fun-to-drive performance, and exceptional durability, quality and reliability (DQR) – along with industry leading safety and environmental performance.

Honda Ridgeline Highlights
Four-Door Cab Design with spacious 5-passenger seating and re-configurable second row seating for people and/or cargo

5-foot SRC composite bed with six integrated heavy duty-tie down cleats and 1,100 pound (1/2 ton) bed payload capacity with minimal wheel well intrusion and one of the industry's strongest tailgates, which also features dual-action operation

Exclusive and secure In-Bed Trunk with a volume of 241 litres.

Transverse-mounted 250-horsepower 3.5-litre SOHC VTEC V-6 engine with 247 lb.-ft. of torque

Integrated closed-box frame with unibody construction is extremely rigid and 93 percent unique to any Honda vehicle and supports a 1550-pound total vehicle payload capacity

Independent front and rear suspension

True 5,000 lb. towing capability with standard transmission and steering coolers with trailer pre-wiring factory installed

Advanced VTM-4 four-wheel-drive with lock mode and medium duty off-road capability

Standard Safety for Everyone features include Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with Traction

Control, side curtain airbags with rollover sensor, front side airbags and pedestrian safety design

What's New for 2011

Colour Changes

Source;

Honda Canada