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Honda released the 2nd generation of the Ridgeline back in 2016, and so far the car has been a success. Even though it is vastly different from its rivals, the Ridgeline managed to sell better than most people expected. In fact, it managed to account for nearly 10% of the entire medium-size truck market which is impressive for a truck that had less than 2% a year ago. Thanks to the massive increase in its market share, Honda is now looking to update the Ridgeline even further. Even though the details are still scarce, it looks like the update may hit the market with the future 2019 Honda Ridgeline. Most rumors seem to suggest this will be the facelift for the truck. Considering its release date, it actually seems plausible.
2019 Honda Ridgeline Release date and Price
Being the mid-life facelift, it means the truck won’t be all that different from what is currently available. It will continue to use the same unibody design as before and likely the same engine too. However, there will be some changes. For starters, the running gear might get revised, and Honda may release a second engine choice too. The main reason for updating it though has to be its design. Even though it looks good, Honda will have to do something in order to allow the Ridgeline to look more in line with their other vehicles.
Unfortunately, it still is quite early to say much about when the 2019 Honda Ridgeline will hit the market. If the rumors are anything to go by then, we can expect it at the end of 2018 or early 2019. The price is likely not going to change much. The base model should still cost around $30,000. Even though it seems more expensive than its rivals, the Ridgeline also comes with far more kit, so it is actually better value for money.
Design
As we said above, one of the problems of the current model has to be the design. Unlike its predecessor, Honda now went with a more crossover-oriented design scheme which so far has been really successful. Unfortunately, the front end didn’t appeal to as many people as they wanted it to. Because of that, it is safe to assume the future 2019 model will change that. The new truck will likely receive a design inspired by that of Honda’s newer cars such as the Accord or the new CRV. We can expect a more angular look with slimmer headlights and a less vertical grille. The cabin, bed and even the wheels will likely be complete carry overs from the current truck.
Interior
Unlike its rivals, the interior of the current Ridgeline is a lot more similar to that of a car. The dashboard is really minimalist in its design, and the layout is great too. However, this could be improved. For starters, the infotainment system could do with a different control system. Even though it is fast, being touch-based doesn’t work well when the car is in motion. On top of that, the front seats could be improved with slightly larger side bolsters. All of these could be easily solved by the 2019 Honda Ridgeline update.
Under the hood
So far it looks like the great 3.5 liters naturally aspirated V6 will still be available on the future truck. This engine should make right around 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque which is actually less than some of Honda’s other V6 engines. The big difference is torque though. This engine will provide over 200 lb-ft of torque at less than 2,000 RPM which is very impressive for a naturally aspirated mill. The future 2019 Ridgeline shouldn’t change much. However, it looks like Honda may add a second engine choice into the mix. So far the details are unknown, but we wouldn’t be surprised if they offer the new 2.0 liter turbo-four mill. With north of 260 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque, this has to be one of the most impressive engines to be released in the past year. Not only it would provide roughly the same towing capacity. It would also provide better fuel efficiency and more low-end torque which is what matters in a truck. We also hope the six speed automatic will finally be replaced with Honda’s all-new ten speed gearbox.
