Used Honda Ridgeline Buying Guide

Used Honda Ridgeline Buying Guide
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When it comes to needing a good used truck, the Honda Ridgeline is a dark horse in the segment. While not as in your face as other models, if you're someone who wants car‑like comfort, everyday usability, and surprising capability, then it's hard to deny this model. Able to conquer the jobsite, as well as family road trips, making this a jack of all trades. We'll break down how this model has changed over the years so you know what to look for.

Key takeaways

Used Honda Ridgeline First Generation
  • When it comes to trucks, this one is unique as it feels more comfortable than the rest.
  • If you're someone who values everyday functionality, like taking your family places, but doesn't want to give up on capabilities, then the Ridgeline is for you.
  • While the payloads change based on trims, the Honda Ridgeline towing capacity remains the same at 5,000-pounds. Making it a perfect option for handymen.
  • More recent models offer some off-road features, letting you take it on the trails, while not giving up what makes the Ridgeline unique.

Second Generation (2017-Present)

Used Honda Ridgeline Second Generation

Being the most recent generation, this is the one that you'll want to look for if you're wanting the most modern features. Coming in 7 trims, with these being the RT, RTS, Sport, RTL, RTL-T, RTL-E, and Black Edition. No matter what trim you find, it will come with the same engine, with this one being the 3.5L V6, and paired with a 6-speed automatic. This engine makes 280 horsepower, and 262 lb-ft of torque. Thanks to this, you can tow up to 5,000-pounds, and have a payload rating of 1,444-1,543-pounds, depending on trim levels.

Starting in 2018, the AWD variant was removed from the base RT trim, but still leaving it on all other trims. Another major change from this year is that the RST trim was removed from the family, leaving 6 trims remaining.

When the 2019 models hit the roads, it saw some more charging ports coming to the lower three trims, letting you, and your passengers, charge your devices more efficiently. The RTL, and RTL-T trims come with a power moonroof and power sliding rear window that used to be exclusive to the top two trims, sharing the love to even more of the lineup.

In 2020, the first mechanical change was brought to the lineup. While it is "smaller", it does change how the vehicle drives. This year saw the removal of the 6-speed automatic, and replaced it with the 9-speed automatic. Other changes from this year are a push button style gear selector, as well as the RT, RTS, and RTL-T trims being removed.

For the first time in this generation's life, it saw a facelift. This new squared-off nose and upright grille brings it more in line with other trucks in the market. While it does look more like a modern truck, it "offers a smooth ride and enough capability to make it one of the best mid-size trucks" according to Car and Driver.

Some other new features are a new skid plate, new front fenders with side vents that move air around the front wheels, and brighter LED headlights just to name a few. This also brought some new tech features, with these being the 8-inch touchscreen, and even wireless phone charging. This makes it desirable for most drivers as it will help keep your immediate area free of wires.

Being that this model had seen a massive change, it wasn't until 2024 that the new set of changes were added. This year saw a new trim join the lineup, with this one being the TrailSport. This takes the spot of the now discontinued RTL-E. The TrailSport includes all-terrain tires, underbody protection, making it so that you can conquer the trails, without worrying that something may damage the Ridgeline.

The last major changes that this model has seen at the time this article was written is the 9-inch color touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. This change is available on all trims, making it so that you won't need to pick and choose based on this feature.

What makes a used Ridgeline a good buy?

As we mentioned earlier, the Ridgeline is more than just a truck, and it can even be used as a family vehicle. If you want to see what we have in person, then come on down to a Jarrett location! We have some of the most versatile vehicles on the market, as well as the best inventory around. Come see us today!

Pricing was accurate at the time of article writing. All pricing is subject to change. See the manufacturer and/or Dealer for up-to-date pricing.