2026 Honda Ridgeline is a commitment to Honda’s innovative approach to blending utility, comfort, and modern technology in the midsize truck segment. With a bold redesign and improved performance, the Ridgeline caters to both urban and adventurous drivers alike.
2026 Honda Ridgeline Specs
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L V6 |
| Horsepower | 280 hp |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
| Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs |
| Payload Capacity | 1,584 lbs |
| Fuel Economy | 18 mpg (city) / 24 mpg (highway) |
| Cargo Bed Length | 5.3 ft |
| In-Bed Trunk Volume | 7.3 cubic feet |
| Infotainment System | 8.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto |
| Safety Features | Honda Sensing Suite, including adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation braking, and lane-keeping assist |
| Off-Road Features | i-VTM4 AWD system, skid plates, all-terrain tires (optional) |
| Notable Additions | Dual-action tailgate, lockable in-bed trunk with drain plug, optional in-bed audio system |
| Interior Features | Panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, premium audio system |
| Starting Price | Estimated $38,000 – $50,000 (USD) |
2026 Ridgeline Exterior Design
The 2026 Ridgeline embraces a rugged yet refined aesthetic. Key updates include:
- A more prominent grille featuring a blacked-out Honda logo.
- Sleek LED headlights and an integrated silver skid plate, enhancing its off-road readiness.
- 20-inch alloy wheels, optional all-terrain tires, and functional roof rails for added versatility.
- The dual-action tailgate, now enhanced, swings open or drops down for convenient access to the truck bed.
2026 Ridgeline Exterior Interior Comfort and Features
The Ridgeline boasts a cabin that prioritizes functionality and comfort:
- High-quality materials and spacious seating, with the rear offering best-in-class legroom.
- Foldable armrests and a configurable center console add convenience.
- A unique 5.3-foot truck bed, capable of accommodating full-size construction sheets, features a 7.3-cubic-foot in-bed trunk with a drain plug—a standout for tailgaters and adventurers.
Performance
Under the hood, the 2026 Honda Ridgeline is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, it delivers smooth acceleration and a car-like ride quality, thanks to its unibody construction and coil-sprung independent rear suspension. While its towing capacity is 5,000 lbs, slightly lower than competitors like the Ford Ranger, it excels in handling and comfort.
Expected 0-60, 0-100 and Top Speed
The 2026 Honda Ridgeline’s 0-60 mph and top speed figures are anticipated to align closely with past models, given its shared platform and engine characteristics.
Historical performance data shows that the 2021 Honda Ridgeline, equipped with a 3.5L V6 producing 280 horsepower, achieved a 0-60 mph time of approximately 6.2 to 6.4 seconds. The top speed typically ranged around 110 mph. These figures represent the truck’s capability as a unibody, mid-size pickup focused on balanced performance and ride quality.
For the 2026 model, with a slightly more powerful 285-horsepower V6 and a 10-speed automatic transmission, improvements might marginally lower the 0-60 time to around 6.0 seconds. The additional torque could enhance its off-the-line acceleration without dramatically altering its top speed, likely staying near the 110-115 mph range.
Technology and Safety
Modern connectivity is a hallmark of the 2026 Ridgeline:
- Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Available in-bed audio system, turning the truck bed into a giant speaker for outdoor gatherings.
- Advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and parking sensors.
Pricing and Release
Expected to launch in early 2025, pricing for the 2026 Ridgeline is anticipated to start around $40,000, with premium trims exceeding $45,000. This positions it competitively against midsize trucks like the Chevrolet Colorado and Toyota Tacoma.
Competitors of 2026 Honda Ridgeline
2026 Honda Ridgeline will face stiff competition in the midsize truck segment, with key rivals offering a range of features tailored to various needs. Here’s a brief comparison of expected competitors and their specifications:
1. Toyota Tacoma (2024 Model)
- Engine Options: 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder (278 hp) or a hybrid 2.4L turbo (326 hp, 465 lb-ft torque).
- Towing Capacity: Up to 6,500 lbs.
- Unique Features: Advanced off-road trims like the TRD Pro, larger touchscreens (up to 14 inches), and Toyota’s new infotainment system.
- Strengths: Rugged build, off-road capability, hybrid efficiency.
2. Chevrolet Colorado (2024 Model)
- Engine: 2.7L turbocharged 4-cylinder, available in three power levels (237-310 hp).
- Towing Capacity: Up to 7,700 lbs.
- Unique Features: Customizable bed options, advanced safety tech, and multiple trim levels focusing on performance and utility.
- Strengths: High towing capacity, modern tech integration.
3. Ford Ranger (2024 Model)
- Engine Options: 2.3L EcoBoost I4 (270 hp) or a 2.7L V6 (315 hp) with a 10-speed automatic.
- Towing Capacity: Up to 7,500 lbs.
- Unique Features: Optional Tremor Off-Road Package and cutting-edge tech, including over-the-air updates.
- Strengths: Versatile configurations, towing power.
4. GMC Canyon (2024 Model)
- Engine: 2.7L turbocharged I4, producing 310 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque.
- Towing Capacity: Up to 7,700 lbs.
- Unique Features: AT4X trim for off-road enthusiasts, premium interior options, and enhanced connectivity features.
- Strengths: Premium materials, strong performance.
5. Nissan Frontier (2024 Model)
- Engine: 3.8L V6, delivering 310 hp and 281 lb-ft of torque.
- Towing Capacity: Up to 6,720 lbs.
- Unique Features: PRO-4X trim for off-road adventures and modernized cabin designs.
- Strengths: Reliability, off-road capability.
Key Takeaways
While the 2026 Honda Ridgeline stands out for its unibody construction, car-like ride, and innovative features like the in-bed trunk, competitors bring strengths such as greater towing capacities, rugged designs, and off-road trims. The Ridgeline’s updated tech and comfort-focused interior will appeal to buyers who prioritize versatility and daily drivability.
Price & Release Date
2026 Honda Ridgeline is expected to hit dealerships in late 2025, with a starting price anticipated to be around $40,000 USD for the base trims, potentially reaching upwards of $50,000 USD for higher trims equipped with premium features and advanced off-road packages. This pricing positions it competitively in the midsize truck market, reflecting its enhancements in design, technology, and performance.
The exact release date has not been officially confirmed but is speculated to be around 2025 March-April.
Expected Colors
2026 Honda Ridgeline is expected to offer a variety of exterior color options, catering to diverse tastes and preferences. Current information suggests the following colors will be available across different trims:
- Crystal Black Pearl
- Lunar Silver Metallic
- Platinum White Pearl
- Radiant Red Metallic II
- Solar Silver Metallic
- Sonic Gray Pearl
- Modern Steel Metallic
- Diffused Sky Pearl (new addition for select trims like TrailSport)
Each trim level will have specific color choices, with premium trims like the Black Edition focusing on darker, more refined shades. The interior options are likely to include black, gray, and tan, with higher trims featuring leather upholstery and possibly contrast stitching for added luxury.
Expected Fuel Efficiency
2026 Honda Ridgeline is expected to deliver 18 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined, powered by its 3.5L V6 engine producing 280 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque.
This efficiency aligns well within the midsize truck segment, though competitors like the Ford Ranger offer slightly better highway ratings. Honda’s unibody design and 10-speed automatic transmission contribute to a smoother ride and consistent fuel savings.
