2006 Honda Ridgeline: Autofastracks in Review
When Honda engineers were asked to design and build a pickup I am sure they must have said something like – how can we enter an established market and be a success? My guess is that their next step was to review the existing Honda line, extracting some of their best features and then incorporating them into this new product starting with a massive amount of convenient and intelligent storage.
The Ridgeline is available in three different trim levels: RT ($27,000), RTS ($30,075) and RTL ($31,490). For whatever reason, Honda doesn’t add any exterior badges to distinguish the trim levels.
The all-new 2006 Honda Ridgeline is innovative in both design and function. Its exterior is fresh, unique and bold. The front grille is strong and stands out from the pack of mid-size trucks. The headlights wrap around and into the fenders. The wheel wells are square-flared that adds to the “I know I’m Tough” stance it portrays. The four full-size doors makes entry easy for people as well as all their “stuff”. The split folding 60/40 back seat has an easy one-button operation (per side) to release the bottom seat and quickly lock it against the top back portion thus creating a large area for carrying larger supplies. This is extremely accommodating since the bed itself is only 60-inches in length.
The tailgate opens both as a conventional drop down and as a door with a hidden latch on the lower right side. This is convenient when you are loading more of your “stuff” in the bed. With the gate opened in this manner you also have access to one of the most unique features of the Ridgeline – a covered, waterproof, lockable trunk built into the floor. It actually holds 8.5 cubic-feet of storage and will hold several sets of golf clubs, a 72-quart cooler plus a compact spare tire. The bed and trunk hatch is made of steel-reinforced SMC plastic.
The interior is comfortable, yet still follows the bold theme. The doors have large silver square pull handles to grab onto. They are a bit much and kind of get in the way of the actual door handles, but at least they have a function. Cubbyholes are smartly placed through out the interior. The center console has expandable dual storage that works great and provides hidden storage compartments. The front seats are bucket and the rear is a split folding 60/40 with a built-in armrest and two cup holders. The rear seat backrests are angled at a 24-degree incline and comfortably hold two adults with ample leg room.
Options include XM Satellite Radio, steering wheel mounted audio controls, roof-mounted DVD entertainment system, MP3 digital interface and a satellite navigation system.
The Ridgeline is powered by Honda’s 3.5-liter engine producing 255 horsepower and 252 lb.-ft of torque. Since Honda doesn’t produce a V8, the 3.5L was a logical choice and works well in the Ridgeline. Mated to the V6 is a 5-speed automatic transmission with Grade Logic Control. The frame is an integrated closed-box frame with unibody construction.
Honda packs the Ridgeline with safety features including anti-lock brakes, traction control, standard all-wheel drive, front and rear side curtain airbags, front multi-stage airbags, vehicle stability assist, lap and shoulder belts for all seating positions. That makes it best-in class according to Honda.
� Summary
Honda needed to make a bold statement in order to enter the pickup market and the Ridgeline hits the mark. It stands out in the crowd of mid-size pickups that haven’t evolved much since the Ford Explorer Sport Trac. It is relatively heavy, but the V6 engine delivers plenty of power. This incredible stiffness and strength of the body make for a fun and refined ride. With its unique features, safety attributes and flashy new look, the all-new 2006 Honda Ridgeline will probably be at the top of a lot of shopping list this year.
THE FINE PRINT
2006 Honda Ridgeline RT
Type: Front engine, four-wheel-drive
Engine: 3.5-liter, SOHC, V6
Power: 255 horsepower at 5,750 rpm
Torque: 252 foot-pounds at 4,500 rpm
Base Price: $28,215
As Tested: $28,215
Fuel Economy: 16 city, 21 highway
