Engine
255-hp, 3.5-liter V-6
Transmission
5-speed automatic |
Honda launched the Ridgeline pickup truck as a four-door with all-wheel drive, a move likely to get sales generated in the U.S. market.
The initial engine offering in the Ridgeline, which Honda refers to as a sport utility truck, is the 255-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 found in other Honda models. It's mated to a five-speed-automatic transmission.
The all-wheel-drive system is fully automatic, and antilock brakes activate on all four wheels. Vehicle Stability Assist and traction control are standard. The four-wheel-independent suspension and new closed box frame with seven sturdy cross-members and semi-unibody construction ought to make Ridgeline capable in a variety of conditions.
Designed at Honda's California studios and engineered in North America, there are several innovations built into the Ridgeline package. The half-ton bed has tie-down hooks at several points and enough room for an all-terrain vehicle or two motocross bikes. Under the durable bed hides an 8.5-cubic-foot "trunk" that provides ample secure storage. The tailgate is lightweight, supports a full 300 pounds of weight when down and can open sideways when you need to load loose dirt.
The Ridgeline is the only pickup truck with an Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle Rating in all 50 states.
Honda's new pickup will be built in Alliston, Ontario, Canada. It will go on sale in March with prices between $27,000 and $32,000. The sales goal for this March-through-December year is 50,000 units. |
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