The 2024 Honda Ridgeline is not the only unibody pickup truck in the market anymore. Hyundai launched Santa Cruz after many years of waiting. Also, Ford is out with Maverick compact truck. Still, the Ridgeline is larger than those vehicles. On the other hand, not tough enough to compete with true trucks that use ladder frames. The third generation of the Ridgeline might debut in 2024 with significant changes.
We are also following the updates on the Pilot SUV. Many companies build the truck-based SUVs, and the 2024 Ridgeline will be SUV-based truck. Anyway, those two vehicles are closely related. But, the changes on the Pilot are more than interesting. The SUV is also going through the redesign. Also, our sources confirm that the company is working on new drivetrains. One of them should be a plug-in hybrid.
So, the combination of the fresh look and a more efficient powerplant should be enough to improve the Ridgeline’s position in the market. The ultimate upgrade is the 2024 Honda Ridgeline Type R, now being more anticipated with the return of the Acura Type S.
2024 Honda Ridgeline Hybrid Rumors
The Ridgeline is known as the unibody truck with a low towing capacity. Compared to the competition, it can haul just 5,000 pounds. On the other hand, the architecture allowed a sportier ride and a better gas mileage. A 3.5-liter V6 engine can produce 290 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. It will be carried over to the new version, for sure.
However, one rumor is making things interesting. The 2024 Honda Ridgeline hybrid is about to make a debut. It is not too strange, even having in mind that no other truck is offering such a configuration. Even Honda is missing hybrid units for its large SUVs, Pilot and Passport. So, the Ridgeline could turn things around for the Japanese carmaker. Also, we saw the spy shots of the Pilot PHEV model, which means the truck could also feature this configuration.
Nevertheless, the specs are unknown yet. You can be sure that the plug-in hybrid system for the 2024 Ridgeline is going to boost power and fuel economy. Still, the towing is not a specialty for electrically supported vehicles. So, the main issue is still there. Plus, the price of the hybrid truck will be over $45,000 and the PHEV setup is even more expensive.
Competition and Future Plans
For a long time, the Ridgeline was the only truck using the unibody platform. All other class-leading models are built on the ladder frame. This is the main reason why Honda is not too competitive in this class. Still, the Ridgeline is a unique pickup. Nevertheless, the arrival of Hyundai Santa Cruz and Ford Maverick steals the supremacy in this segment.
But, the Japanese company is preparing future moves. After the redesign and a hybrid unit, the 2024 Honda Ridgeline Type R should be the next big thing about this pickup. The performance-oriented vehicle will improve power outputs and handling. The package also makes the exterior more aggressive, and interior sportier. Again, the price will go up, and the Ridgeline Type R is not going to cost under $60k.
Bring the 2024 RL hybrid on! I will buy it!
Love the look of the proposed redesign. It looks stylish and sporty and I love the idea of a hybrid, in particular a plug-in hybrid.
I would really like to see Honda come out with a Hybrid and exterior redesign. I also think a truck should have a shift on the floor, NOT a push button shifter. I think Honda needs this to compete with the other truck makers. I DONT care if it can haul 7,000 pounds I’m after the exceptional ride, comfort and bed design of the ridgeline. But it needs to do away with the push button gear shift for the ridgeline.
With Colorado terrain the HP is critical when loaded. You need that extra power of turbo to climb steep elevations and maintain speed. I would buy a Ridgeline 400 HP today.