2023 Honda Ridgeline review

1. V6 engine

This midsize pickup certainly has some power behind it, which makes it great for light-duty off-roading — whether that's at the job site or during a camping trip. Every 2023 Honda Ridgeline comes with a 280-hp 3.5L V6 engine. A nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive are standard for extra precision over tricky terrain — meaning the Ridgeline will climb hills and tackle muddy and snowy terrain with ease. When you need a little extra control, you've even got the option of using the paddle shifters behind the steering wheel to change gear manually.

2. Upscale interior

You might expect a midsize pickup to be somewhat utilitarian inside, but that's certainly not the case for the 2023 Honda Ridgeline. The cabin is pleasantly quiet and the dashboard looks sleek and modern. The 2023 Honda Ridgeline seats five and those seats are supportive and well-cushioned, with cloth upholstery as standard. The RTL trim and upward offer leather upholstery, and the Black Edition trim has an all-black interior to really enhance that style level.

3. Practical storage

If you're looking for a compact pickup, cargo space is probably a priority for you. Fortunately, the 2023 Honda Ridgeline has plenty, and using it effectively is extremely straightforward. This vehicle has a bed that's five feet long and four feet wide, with an estimated payload capacity of between 1,509 lbs and 1,583 lbs, depending on the trim. The Ridgeline also has a lockable trunk in the bed itself, perfect for storing items out of sight. What's really exciting about the bed of the 2023 Honda Ridgeline, however, is that the tailgate not only folds down but can also swing outwards thanks to a second set of hinges. This opens up a whole new world of possibilities when loading and unloading, especially when it comes to unwieldy items like furniture and gardening supplies.

4. Four trim levels

There are four trim levels available for the 2023 Honda Ridgeline: Sport, RTL, RTL-E, and Black Edition. They all have the same engine and the same size bed, but there are plenty of differences when it comes to features. The Sport includes an eight-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth^® integration, a seven-speaker stereo, Apple CarPlay^® and Android Auto^™ connectivity, a rearview camera, and more — plus a raft of driver aids. The RTL trim adds leather seating, while the RTL-E adds a heated steering wheel, navigation, and wireless device charging.

5. Perfect for adventuring

The 2023 Honda Ridgeline's suitability for adventures goes far beyond its V6 engine and AWD. It offers total stability while driving, and achieves an EPA-estimated 21 combined mpg, meaning taking it for long weekends away is a must.

As well as being able to haul just over 1,500 lbs in the bed, the 2023 Honda Ridgeline can also tow up to an estimated 5,000 lbs with the standard V6 when properly equipped, meaning you can take all sorts of equipment – such as dirt bikes or even small watercraft – away with you. There's also 7.6 inches of ground clearance to help you traverse rough terrain even more easily.