The Honda Ridgeline stands out in the midsize truck category for its combination of comfort, versatility, and utility. While it offers the refinement of an SUV, the Ridgeline delivers the strength and capability required for towing tasks. Whether you’re considering the Ridgeline for work, recreation, or everyday use, understanding its towing capacity is essential. This comprehensive guide explores the towing capacity of the Honda Ridgeline, its features, and how it compares to competitors.
What Is the Towing Capacity of a Honda Ridgeline?
The towing capacity of the Honda Ridgeline depends on several factors, including the model year, trim level, and drivetrain configuration. Across its generations, the Ridgeline has consistently provided a reliable towing capacity suitable for light to moderate hauling needs.
Standard and Maximum Towing Capacity
- Standard Towing Capacity:
- The Ridgeline’s standard towing capacity is 3,500 pounds, achievable in front-wheel-drive (FWD) configurations.
- Maximum Towing Capacity:
- With all-wheel drive (AWD), the Honda Ridgeline achieves its maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, making it suitable for towing small boats, utility trailers, and campers.
Towing Package
- To reach the maximum towing capacity, the Ridgeline must be equipped with the factory-installed towing package. This package includes a heavy-duty transmission cooler, a trailer hitch, and other enhancements to optimize performance during towing.
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Towing Capacity by Honda Ridgeline Generations
The Honda Ridgeline has undergone two distinct generations since its debut in 2006, with each offering consistent towing capabilities:
First Generation (2006–2014)
- Engine: 3.5L V6 producing 250 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque.
- Towing Capacity:
- 3,500 pounds (FWD).
- 5,000 pounds (AWD with towing package).
Second Generation (2017–Present)
- Engine: 3.5L V6 producing 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.
- Towing Capacity:
- 3,500 pounds (FWD).
- 5,000 pounds (AWD with towing package).
- Improved drivetrain and unibody construction enhance towing stability and ride comfort.
Detailed Breakdown of Towing Capacity by Model Year
2006–2014 Honda Ridgeline Towing Capacity
The first generation of the Ridgeline set the stage for a versatile truck that excels in both utility and comfort.
- Base Towing Capacity: 3,500 pounds (FWD).
- Maximum Towing Capacity: 5,000 pounds (AWD).
- Ideal for towing small trailers, motorcycles, or jet skis.
2017 Honda Ridgeline Towing Capacity
The second-generation Ridgeline debuted with upgraded towing capabilities.
- Base Towing Capacity: 3,500 pounds (FWD).
- Maximum Towing Capacity: 5,000 pounds (AWD with towing package).
2018–2020 Honda Ridgeline Towing Capacity
The Ridgeline maintained its towing capabilities, with no significant changes during these model years.
- Base Towing Capacity: 3,500 pounds.
- Maximum Towing Capacity: 5,000 pounds.
- Newer trims featured additional safety technologies to enhance towing confidence.
2021–Present Honda Ridgeline Towing Capacity
The refreshed design and upgraded features in the latest models enhance towing convenience and safety.
- Base Towing Capacity: 3,500 pounds.
- Maximum Towing Capacity: 5,000 pounds.
- Notable Features:
- Enhanced AWD system.
- New rugged styling.
- Updated infotainment and safety features.
Honda Ridgeline Towing Features
The Honda Ridgeline comes equipped with several features that optimize towing performance and ensure safety:
- Integrated Trailer Hitch
- Factory-installed hitch receiver is built into the truck’s unibody frame, providing a secure connection for trailers.
- Heavy-Duty Transmission Cooler
- Included in the towing package, this feature prevents overheating during heavy towing tasks.
- Multi-View Rear Camera
- Simplifies hitching and improves visibility when reversing with a trailer.
- Intelligent Traction Management
- AWD models feature traction settings for snow, sand, and mud, enhancing towing stability on various terrains.
- Trailer Stability Assist
- Works with the vehicle’s stability control system to reduce trailer sway at high speeds.
- Payload Capacity
- With a payload capacity of up to 1,580 pounds, the Ridgeline can handle both passengers and cargo while towing.
How the Honda Ridgeline Compares to Competitors
When considering the Ridgeline for towing, it’s helpful to compare its capabilities with other midsize trucks:
Honda Ridgeline vs. Toyota Tacoma
- Ridgeline:
- Towing capacity: 5,000 pounds (AWD).
- Strengths: Better ride comfort, advanced safety features, unibody construction.
- Tacoma:
- Toyota Tacoma Towing capacity: Up to 6,800 pounds (with V6 engine and towing package).
- Strengths: Higher towing capacity, rugged off-road capabilities.
Honda Ridgeline vs. Ford Ranger
- Ridgeline:
- Towing capacity: 5,000 pounds.
- Strengths: Superior interior comfort, innovative features like the in-bed trunk.
- Ranger:
- Ford Ranger Towing capacity: Up to 7,500 pounds.
- Strengths: Higher towing capacity, robust turbocharged engine.
Honda Ridgeline vs. Chevy Colorado
- Ridgeline:
- Towing capacity: 5,000 pounds.
- Strengths: Balanced ride, better handling for everyday use.
- Colorado:
- Towing capacity: Up to 7,700 pounds (with diesel engine).
- Strengths: Diesel engine option, off-road ZR2 trim.
Towing Safety Tips for the Honda Ridgeline
To ensure safe and efficient towing with your Honda Ridgeline, follow these best practices:
- Know Your Limits
- Do not exceed the maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.
- Distribute Weight Properly
- Balance the load evenly in the trailer to prevent sway and maintain control.
- Use Proper Equipment
- Always use a weight-distributing hitch for heavy loads and ensure the trailer’s brakes are functional.
- Adjust Driving Habits
- Reduce speed, maintain a safe following distance, and brake earlier to accommodate the increased stopping distance.
- Inspect Your Vehicle
- Check tire pressure, hitch connections, and fluid levels before towing.
- Utilize Honda’s Towing Features
- Leverage Trailer Stability Assist, Intelligent Traction Management, and the rearview camera for a safer towing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the towing capacity of the Honda Ridgeline with AWD?
AWD models equipped with the towing package can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
2. Can the Honda Ridgeline tow a camper?
Yes, the Ridgeline can tow small to midsize campers within its 5,000-pound towing limit.
3. Is the towing capacity the same for all Ridgeline trims?
Yes, the maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds applies to all AWD trims equipped with the towing package.
4. Does towing affect fuel efficiency in the Honda Ridgeline?
Yes, towing reduces fuel efficiency due to the increased load and aerodynamic drag.
5. What type of trailer is best suited for the Ridgeline?
The Ridgeline is ideal for towing utility trailers, small boats, and compact campers.
Conclusion
The Honda Ridgeline is a versatile midsize truck that balances comfort, innovation, and towing capability. Its maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds makes it a practical choice for light to moderate towing needs, such as hauling boats, utility trailers, or campers. Whether you prioritize a smooth ride, advanced towing features, or everyday practicality, the Ridgeline delivers a unique combination of SUV-like refinement and truck utility.
For those seeking a reliable and capable towing vehicle, the Honda Ridgeline is a strong contender that doesn’t compromise on comfort or safety.
