No doubt its modest exterior dimensions contribute to the confidence level one finds in the driver’s seat regardless of whether he or she is a “truck person” or not. This is an important criterion to many potential truck buyers.
Those buyers want the expanded functionality of a 4WD crew-cab pickup but don’t relish the thought of driving something needlessly intimidating or unbearably large. For them, the Ridgeline fits their needs and their automotive mettle.
In the driver’s seat
The 2010 Ridgeline imparts a sense of solidity—which is in keeping with its somewhat over-the-top machismo styling—while remaining kind to its occupants.
Ride quality is not far removed from that of a car, while road, wind and engine noises are all managed fairly well for a 4WD pickup truck exhibiting a modest entry price tag of $34,990. This outlay also nets plenty of safety, including side curtain airbags with rollover sensing along with Honda’s Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) program with traction control.
The Ridgeline’s cabin is spacious and comfortable. Rear seat passengers are left with little to complain about although some manufacturers are treating second class passengers to rear seats of enhanced sufficiency and greater adjustability.
The wrap
The Honda Ridgeline has earned its spot at the truck table but it used its brains to do so not its brawn—or at least perceived brawn. This is a truck capable of being a “truck” in every sense of the domestic definition—it’s just a little lighter and less rugged than what we typically expect in this segment, and for many buyers, that’s a winning attribute.
Those buyers want the expanded functionality of a 4WD crew-cab pickup but don’t relish the thought of driving something needlessly intimidating or unbearably large. For them, the Ridgeline fits their needs and their automotive mettle.
In the driver’s seat
The 2010 Ridgeline imparts a sense of solidity—which is in keeping with its somewhat over-the-top machismo styling—while remaining kind to its occupants.
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| The 2010 Honda Ridgeline remains a versatile vehicle deserving of another look since being refreshed in 2009. (Photo: Rob Rothwell/Auto123.com) |
Ride quality is not far removed from that of a car, while road, wind and engine noises are all managed fairly well for a 4WD pickup truck exhibiting a modest entry price tag of $34,990. This outlay also nets plenty of safety, including side curtain airbags with rollover sensing along with Honda’s Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) program with traction control.
The Ridgeline’s cabin is spacious and comfortable. Rear seat passengers are left with little to complain about although some manufacturers are treating second class passengers to rear seats of enhanced sufficiency and greater adjustability.
The wrap
The Honda Ridgeline has earned its spot at the truck table but it used its brains to do so not its brawn—or at least perceived brawn. This is a truck capable of being a “truck” in every sense of the domestic definition—it’s just a little lighter and less rugged than what we typically expect in this segment, and for many buyers, that’s a winning attribute.
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