Honda’s Next Ridgeline Wants To Look More Like A Real Truck, Even If It Isn’t
Honda's next-generation Ridgeline will focus on a more rugged design and capabilities, aiming to change its reputation as a 'real truck'.
Key Takeaways
- Honda’s next Ridgeline will have a more rugged design and capabilities.
- The new truck will be designed at Honda’s Southern California styling studio and engineered in Ohio.
- Production will begin in Alabama within the next two years.
- The teaser image reveals a boxier front end, flatter hood, and more upright windshield.
- Honda wants the Ridgeline to look tougher and more traditional.
What’s Behind Honda’s Decision to Make the Ridgeline Look More Rugged?
Honda’s decision to make the Ridgeline look more rugged is likely a response to criticism that the current model doesn’t look like a ‘real truck’. The company wants to change this perception and appeal to buyers who value a more traditional truck design.
The Ridgeline has always been a capable truck, but its unibody construction and SUV roots have led some to question its toughness. By emphasizing ruggedness, Honda hopes to overcome this perception and make the Ridgeline more appealing to a wider range of buyers.
How Will the New Ridgeline’s Design Differ from the Current Model?
The teaser image reveals a boxier front end, flatter hood, and more upright windshield, giving the Ridgeline a more traditional truck look. The new design is likely to be more aggressive and masculine, appealing to buyers who value a tough and rugged appearance.
It’s worth noting that the Ridgeline’s unibody construction is unlikely to change, despite the more rugged design. Instead, Honda will likely use a tougher-looking body over the existing unibody structure.
What Does This Mean for the Ridgeline’s Capabilities?
While Honda hasn’t discussed the Ridgeline’s capabilities in detail, the emphasis on ruggedness suggests that the new truck will be more capable than the current model. The company has mentioned that the Ridgeline will have ‘even more rugged design and capabilities’, implying that it will be more off-road capable and durable.
However, it’s unclear what specific changes will be made to the Ridgeline’s hardware. Honda may upgrade the truck’s suspension, engine, or transmission to improve its off-road capabilities, but these details have not been confirmed.
How Will the New Ridgeline Compare to Other Trucks in the Market?
The Ridgeline’s new design and capabilities will likely make it more competitive in the market. The truck’s traditional look and improved off-road capabilities will appeal to buyers who value a rugged and capable truck.
However, the Ridgeline will still face competition from other trucks in the market, including the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger. These trucks have a more established reputation for ruggedness and off-road capability, so the Ridgeline will need to prove itself in these areas.
What’s Next for the Ridgeline?
Production of the new Ridgeline will begin in Alabama within the next two years. Honda has not confirmed a specific release date, but it’s likely that the truck will be available in dealerships by 2028.
In the meantime, Honda will likely release more information about the Ridgeline’s design and capabilities. The company may also unveil a concept version of the truck to generate buzz and excitement among buyers.
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Production Location | Alabama |
| Design Studio | Southern California |
| Engineering Location | Ohio |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will the new Ridgeline have a body-on-frame construction?
No, the Ridgeline is likely to retain its unibody construction, with a tougher-looking body over the existing structure.
Q: What changes can we expect to the Ridgeline’s capabilities?
The Ridgeline will likely have improved off-road capabilities, but the specific changes have not been confirmed.
Q: When will the new Ridgeline be available?
Production will begin in Alabama within the next two years, with a likely release date in 2028.
