The 2026 Honda Ridgeline Pickup continues to dominate the midsize segment by blending the refined handling of an SUV with the rugged utility of a traditional truck. Built on a rigid unibody platform, it offers a level of ride quality and cabin quietness that ladder-frame competitors simply cannot match. This year, Honda focuses on enhancing its lifestyle appeal with new color options and the expansion of the adventure-ready TrailSport trim.
2026 Honda Ridgeline Key Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
| Engine | 3.5L V6 i-VTEC |
| Horsepower | 280 hp @ 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft @ 4,700 rpm |
| Transmission | 9-Speed Automatic |
| Drivetrain | i-VTM4 AWD (Standard) |
| Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs |
| Payload Capacity | Up to 1,583 lbs |
| Bed Features | Dual-Action Tailgate & In-Bed Trunk |
Refined V6 Performance – Power Meets Precision
The 3.5-liter i-VTEC V6 engine remains the heart of the Ridgeline, delivering a robust 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain is mated to a smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission that ensures linear acceleration for highway merging and heavy hauling. Unlike most trucks, the standard i-VTM4 torque-vectoring AWD system actively shifts power between wheels to provide exceptional grip in rain, snow, and mud.
Rugged Exterior Design – Built for the Modern Adventurer
The aerodynamic silhouette of the 2026 model is complemented by the new TrailSport-exclusive Ash Green Metallic paint and the Black Edition’s striking two-tone roof option. Honda’s unibody construction allows for a lower floor height, making it easier to load gear without sacrificing nearly 8 inches of ground clearance. The 18-inch alloy wheels and aggressive front grille give it a commanding presence that signals both durability and sophistication.
Five-Star Safety – Advanced Protection for Every Passenger
The Honda Sensing® suite comes standard on all trims, providing a comprehensive net of driver-assistive technologies like Collision Mitigation Braking and Adaptive Cruise Control. Its Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure is specifically designed to deflect energy away from the cabin during a collision. These features contribute to its consistent top-tier safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS.
Intuitive On-Board Tech – Connectivity Without Complexity
A high-resolution 9-inch touchscreen serves as the central hub for the cabin, featuring seamless wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Drivers benefit from a 7-inch digital instrument cluster that displays real-time navigation and vehicle health data at a glance. Standard wireless phone charging and multiple USB-C ports ensure that all devices stay powered during long-distance excursions.
Unmatched Versatility – The Smartest Bed in the Business
The industry-exclusive Dual-Action Tailgate swings open like a door or drops down like a traditional gate, providing flexible access to the payload. A lockable 7.3-cubic-foot In-Bed Trunk® offers weather-protected storage for valuables or can be used as a drainable cooler for tailgating. The scratch-resistant composite bed is wide enough to carry 4×8-foot plywood sheets flat, proving that “lifestyle” trucks can still do heavy lifting.
Standard Efficiency – Optimized Fuel Economy for Daily Utility
Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) allows the V6 engine to operate on three cylinders during light cruising to maximize fuel efficiency without sacrificing responsiveness. The 2026 Ridgeline achieves a competitive EPA-rated 21 MPG combined, outperforming many traditional midsize trucks in real-world driving. This balance makes it an ideal primary vehicle for those who need utility but prioritize lower operating costs.
Verdict: The Ultimate Daily Utility Vehicle
The 2026 Honda Ridgeline remains the smartest choice for buyers who want the capability of a pickup without the punishing ride of a commercial chassis. Its combination of standard AWD, a 5,000-lb towing capacity, and an SUV-like interior creates a value proposition that is currently unmatched in the midsize market. If you prioritize comfort, safety, and clever storage solutions over raw rock-crawling, this is the definitive pickup for your driveway.