The 2025 Honda Ridgeline TrailSport may not immediately grab attention in the midsize pickup segment, but it shines once you experience it firsthand. By blending the practicality of a truck with the comfort and ease of an SUV, Honda has created a vehicle that fits seamlessly into the lives of most drivers. While traditional truck enthusiasts might overlook it at first, the Ridgeline TrailSport proves to be a capable and well-rounded choice. Built exclusively at Honda’s auto plant in Lincoln, Alabama, the Ridgeline and TrailSport are American made. This commitment has earned the Ridgeline recognition as the highest-ranked pickup truck on Cars.com’s 2023 American-Made Index®—and the only pickup to make the top 10 overall.
By chance, I met a Ridgeline owner that had traded in his full size pick up truck for the Honda Ridgeline. I asked him why and he said the Ridgeline wasn’t the truck of his dreams but it is the truck he really needs. This midsize truck packs a lot of appeal, all starting at an MSRP of just $40,150.
Exterior
The Ridgeline TrailSport boasts a sharp and stylish design, with a bold front grille that seamlessly integrates with the headlights for a sleek and modern appearance. Equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels and all-terrain tires, the TrailSport trim is tailored for both urban commutes and off-road adventures. The dual-action tailgate and in-bed trunk enhance its versatility, making it a practical choice for various hauling needs. The in -bed trunk is a really cool innovation and the scratch resistant truck bed came in handy during my test week.
Interior
Once inside, the Ridgeline TrailSport offers a spacious cabin with thoughtful design. The leather-trimmed seats with orange contrast stitching add a touch of sophistication, while the heated front seats and steering wheel provide comfort during colder drives. Rear passengers benefit from ample legroom, ensuring comfort even on longer journeys. The 60/40 split lift-up rear seat with underseat storage further enhances the vehicle’s practicality, accommodating larger items if needed.
Engine and Transmission
Under the hood, the Ridgeline TrailSport is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 direct-injection engine that delivers 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive shifts. The combination ensures ample power for daily driving and the capability to handle more demanding tasks when needed. The Ridgeline can even tow up to 5,000 pounds.
Driver Experience
The Honda Ridgeline TrailSport is easy to drive, making it a good fit for a wide range of drivers. Its steering is responsive, parking is straightforward, and it handles well across different types of terrain. This is due to the unibody construction and independent suspension system. Many people note that it rides more like an SUV than a traditional pickup truck, and I’d agree—but I’d also add that it unmistakably drives like a Honda, with the smoothness, reliability, and refinement the brand is known for. Additionally, the Ridgeline’s fuel efficiency (18/24 city/hwy) is commendable, making it a cost-effective choice for those concerned about fuel consumption.
Safety
Safety is a priority in the Ridgeline TrailSport, which comes equipped with the Honda Sensing® suite of driver-assistive technologies. This includes features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and collision mitigation braking. These systems work together to enhance driver awareness and help prevent potential accidents, providing peace of mind on the road.
Conclusion
The 2025 Honda Ridgeline TrailSport manages to bridgethe gap between a comfortable daily driver and a versatile utility vehicle. Its thoughtful design, combined with practical features and a comfortable interior, makes it a compelling choice for those seeking a midsize pickup that doesn’t compromise on comfort or efficiency. The Ridgeline is starting to really make some waves in the mid-size truck category between winning awards and huge jumps in overall sales. I am noticing a lot more Ridgelines on the road these days.
For the official word from Honda and to look at all the options with The 2025 Ridgeline follow the link below:
