2011 Honda Ridgeline Total Car Score Analysis

The 2011 Honda Ridgeline’s Total Car Score is at the top of the compact pickup segment, as reviewers praised its combination of SUV and pickup truck characteristics.  
 
Many pointed out that its tow and payload ratings are lower than other vehicles in the class, but that these capacities are all that most occasional truck users will ever need.  
 
It’s a compromise that works in favor of the Ridgeline’s occupants, as it can carry five passengers in car-like comfort whether or not the bed is full of gear. Plus, with generous ground clearance and fulltime AWD, it can handle mud, snow and wet roads better than a crossover or even a 2WD pickup.  
 
The Ridgeline was first introduced five years ago; the 2011 version carries over unchanged from the previous year. Industry rumors suggested the Ridgeline would be dropped from Honda's product offering, but Honda recently stated the truck will continue to be part of the manufacturer's U.S. line-up.

2011 Honda Ridgeline Model Line-Up

The 2011 Honda Ridgeline is essentially a four-door, five-passenger SUV with a five-foot pickup bed behind the cab that can accommodate up to 1,100 pounds of payload. It's available in RT, RTS and RTL trim levels.  
 
RT versions feature air-conditioning, cruise control, a six-speaker CD/MP3 audio system with auxiliary input, 17-inch wheels and power windows (including a power-sliding rear window). The RTS trim offers dual-zone automatic climate control, a power driver's seat, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, and 17-inch aluminum wheels. The top-line RTL adds leather seating, heated front seats, satellite ratio, 18-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof, foglights and a 115-volt AC power outlet. 
 
All Ridelines come equipped with a 250-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 engine, five-speed automatic transmission and Honda’s Variable Torque Management all-wheel drive system.  
 
The EPA has rated the Ridgeline at 15 mpg city/20 highway, and it can tow up to 5,000 pounds.

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