Introduction
The 2024 Honda Ridgeline Trailsport continues to redefine what a midsize truck can be, blending everyday usability with off-road capability. As the off-road-oriented trim of the Ridgeline lineup, the Trailsport aims to offer adventure-ready features without compromising the comfort and technology that Honda trucks are known for. This review dives into the truck’s exterior styling, interior comfort, performance, and driving experience, showing how the Ridgeline Trailsport performs as both a daily driver and a weekend warrior.
Exterior
The Ridgeline Trailsport embraces a rugged yet refined design, which reflects its dual purpose. The 2024 model comes equipped with exclusive exterior features like beefy 18-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires, a more aggressive grille, and skid plates designed for light off-road use. Its increased ground clearance and wider track give it a more commanding stance than standard Ridgeline trims, making it suitable for tackling dirt trails and rocky paths. However, Honda hasn’t gone overboard with off-road hardware, maintaining a balance between rugged looks and urban appeal.
Interior
Inside, the Trailsport stays true to Honda’s reputation for well-thought-out interiors. The cabin offers plenty of space and comfort for five adults, with leather-trimmed seats and special Trailsport badging to distinguish it from the other trims. The front seats are both heated and power-adjustable, which makes long drives more comfortable. The rear seats can be folded up to expand cargo space, providing practical storage for gear when heading out on an adventure. While the materials aren’t quite as premium as some competitors, the layout is intuitive, with easy-to-use controls and ample storage compartments throughout the cabin.
Engine and Transmission
The 2024 Ridgeline Trailsport comes with Honda’s proven 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission, offering a solid mix of power and efficiency. The Ridgeline might not match the raw towing capacity of some rivals, but its 5,000-pound towing rating is more than enough for most recreational needs, whether you’re hauling a small boat, camper, or ATV. The all-wheel-drive system is standard on the Trailsport, and while it’s not as hardcore as other 4×4 systems, it’s capable enough for most light off-roading situations.
Driver Experience
On the road, the Ridgeline Trailsport excels in areas where most trucks fall short: ride comfort and handling. Thanks to its unibody construction, the Trailsport feels more like an SUV than a traditional body-on-frame truck. The suspension absorbs bumps well, and the steering is responsive, which makes for a smooth and comfortable driving experience, whether you’re navigating city streets or cruising on the highway. Off-road, the Trailsport’s all-terrain tires, increased ground clearance, and intelligent all-wheel-drive system provide added confidence on dirt roads and light trails. While it may not be a hardcore off-roader like a Jeep Gladiator or Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro, it strikes a nice balance for those who want occasional off-road capability without sacrificing everyday comfort. In Arizona, the Ridgeline can handle most of the trails here and will perform good enough for 90% of drivers. I did enjoy how comfortable the Ridgeline is on bumpy roads compared to other 4×4’s.
Safety and Technology
Honda has equipped the Ridgeline Trailsport with a full suite of safety features under its Honda Sensing package. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features, combined with a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert, make the Ridgeline one of the safest trucks in its class. On the technology side, the Trailsport comes with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium audio system, making it well-equipped for both work and play.
Conclusion
The 2024 Honda Ridgeline Trailsport is a unique option in the midsize truck segment, offering a refined balance between daily driving comfort and light off-road capability. While it may not be as extreme as some off-road-focused competitors, its versatility, combined with Honda’s reputation for reliability and safety, makes it an attractive choice for drivers looking for an adventure-ready truck that can still handle everyday tasks with ease. The Ridgeline is worth considering if you want a really nice truck that has off-road capabilities but doesn’t sacrifice the comfort of daily driving. The MSRP is nice too starting at $39,750.
Visit the link below for the official word on all things Honda Ridgeline.
https://automobiles.honda.com/2024/ridgeline
