2021 Honda Ridgeline - Review by Mark Fulmer +VIDEO

A Slightly Different Look on a Very Versatile Truck

Mark Fulmer
The Auto Channel

The 2021 version of the Honda Ridgeline has a modified exterior to exude a more rougher image, while leaving the powertrain and interior pretty much the same. That makes sense as this truck with the car-like ride continues to attract buyers who are looking for versatility, handling, and ride that works well with urban pavement and freeways.

The Ridgeline is powered by a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6, and it does its job quite well. There are plenty of trucks that are faster and more powerful, but the idea is to match your needs. I drove mountain freeways and urban cloverleaves had never felt underpowered, and more importantly my urban passengers appreciated not being bounced around.

When I had to transport my daughter with a broken leg from a snow camp in the High Sierras, she stretched out on the second row and had no complaints about either the road surfaces, winding mountain roads, or my driving.

Honda is known for its interiors with useful storage, and materials that can take exposure to work boots, childhood spills, and snow boots. The 8-inch info screen is highly readible with clean fonts and colors. And for those who are permanently attached to their cell phones, just connect them to let Android and Apple do the work.

The final flourish is the reasonable price of the Ridgeline. Even with the High Performance package, the sticker just barely crossed the $40K line. Unless you work in the construction industry, I think you'll find a lot to like in the new Ridgeline.