"Entering its sixth year of production, the Honda Ridgeline continues to be the alternative choice of the pickup world. Built with a unibody structure and independent front and rear suspensions, the Ridgeline combines the ride quality of a sedan with workhorse utility. The Ridgeline's V6 puts down 250 horsepower and a modest 247 pound-feet of torque. It's enough to pull a 5,000-pound trailer or 1,500 pounds of mulch in its 5-foot-long bed. And with 8 inches of ground clearance and an all-wheel-drive drivetrain that shifts power to the rear wheels during low-traction situations, the Ridgeline makes a fine choice for most situations.
The 2011 Honda Ridgeline midsize pickup truck is offered in a single four-door crew-cab body style with seating for five. There are three available trim levels, ranging from base RT to midrange RTS and top-of-the-line RTL. The entry-level RT is reasonably well equipped with standard features that include 17-inch steel wheels, a power-sliding rear window, air-conditioning, a 60/40-split-folding rear seat with under-seat storage, full power accessories, cruise control, a trip computer and a six-speaker CD/MP3 stereo with an auxiliary audio jack.
Every Ridgeline comes standard with antilock brakes (with brake assist), stability control, front seat side airbags, side curtain airbags with rollover sensor and front seat active head restraints. Its 2010 scores were a perfect five stars for occupant protection in both frontal- and side-impact crashes. The Ridgeline did equally well in Insurance Institute for Highway Safety tests, receiving the organization's highest "Good" rating in both frontal-offset and side-impact crashes.
By pickup standards, the 2011 Honda Ridgeline is pleasant to drive. The suspension provides decent handling and a smooth ride on the pavement. The V6 is refined and provides adequate power for everyday driving."