Car Review
2024 Honda Ridgeline TrailSport review: The truck we need
With a buttery smooth driving experience and a dash of ruggedness, the Ridgeline is way better than you think.
Jason Bell | September 17, 2024
Discussed in this article
The 2024 Honda Ridgeline TrailSport is the coolest the Honda truck has ever been. What started as a somewhat wonky looking creation in 2006 has morphed into a legitimately cool looking and great to drive pickup truck, especially in its new TrailSport trappings.
We admit we were skeptical of its appeal, but after a week of driving, we feel that this is the truck that most people need — and want — but just don’t know it. If you’re in the market for a versatile vehicle that blends the comfort of an SUV with the practicality of a pickup, the Ridgeline TrailSport might be the perfect fit for you. Seriously.
Photo courtesy Honda
The TrailSport trim looks fresh and adds capability
One of the first things you’ll notice about the 2024 Ridgeline Trailsport is just how good it looks, especially in its Sonic Gray Pearl paint. Gone are the strange lines and angles of previous generations, the TrailSport looks the equivalent of a nice pair of hiking boots that are also comfortable enough to be your primary choice for footwear.
Shop all Honda Ridgeline listings on KSL Cars
The TrailSport shows that Honda has stepped up its game in the styling department, and it is earnestly trying to attract buyers typically drawn by more aggressive, off-road models. The TrailSport sets itself apart from the rest of the Ridgeline lineup with its unique 18-inch wheels, all-terrain tires, a bold front grille with a matte black finish and exclusive orange badging that adds a rugged flair.
It also sports a more aggressive stance, with an increased ride height and wider track, adding to its adventure ready vibe. All these TrailSport changes aren’t just for looks, though. They contribute to a more capable, trail ready rig that can tackle mildly tough terrain. There are even skid plates underneath, ensuring that you can reach your favorite fishing hole without scraping up the truck’s underbelly.
The truth is, the 2024 Honda Ridgeline TrailSport is plenty capable of doing 90% of what most people would consider off-roading. Light trails and dirt roads are what this thing is made for.
Photo courtesy Honda
It’s a piece of cake to drive
When we think of the Ridgeline —- and this as a sincere compliment — we think of butter. It’s just so darn smooth in everything it does. The tried-and-true 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6, which produces 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, feels like it has silk between its cylinders. The engine is paired with a smooth shifting 9-speed automatic transmission that effortlessly glides along as it delivers the truck’s drama free power.
Even off-road, Honda makes it too easy. The TrailSport comes standard with Honda’s i-VTM4 all-wheel drive system that automatically adjusts torque distribution between the front and rear wheels, including the left and right wheels, to optimize performance in slippery conditions. Throw some winter tires on one of these and we imagine it’ll be excellent in the snow.
Browse all Honda Ridgeline listings
The TrailSport also comes with an off-road driving mode that adjusts throttle response, transmission shift points and traction control settings to enhance performance off the beaten path. It’s honestly cool to see Honda make something so capable while retaining the Ridgeline’s supremely satisfying on-road driving dynamics.
Photo courtesy Honda
The interior is comfortable and convenient
Another part of the Ridgeline’s appeal is its comfort. It’s so comfortable. If it weren’t for the view out the back, you’d swear you were in a Honda Passport (and that’s a great thing). Step inside the Ridgeline TrailSport and you’re greeted with an interior that’s an exceptional blend of comfort and functionality, whether you’re going on an adventure or commuting to the office.
The seats are large, supportive and plush; they’re also heated The driver’s seat also has 10-way adjustability. The rear seat is equally comfortable and has a shocking amount of leg and headroom for passengers.
Search Honda Ridgeline listings
As with most other Honda products, the interior offers a deluge of intuitively placed and shaped storage compartments and cubbies, including a rear seat that can be folded up to create a flat load floor — perfect for transporting large items you want kept inside. The same functionality extends to the truck bed, where an enormous in-bed truck is easily accessible and ready to swallow all the gear you brought “just in case.”
Photo courtesy Honda
The technology is easy to use and keeps you safe
We’re big fans of Honda’s infotainment systems found in other cars, and the Ridgeline’s is no exception. It features an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and a seven-speaker stereo. It’s easy to navigate and connecting a phone was straightforward.
The Ridgeline TrailSport also comes packed with standard safety features. Some of those included in the Honda Sensing suite are adaptive cruise control, a collision mitigation braking system, a lane-keeping assist system and road departure mitigation.
Fuel efficiency and practicality
Despite its mild off-road setup, the 2024 Honda Ridgeline Trailsport is still surprisingly fuel efficient and practical. The TrailSport is rated at 18 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. In our week of testing, we averaged just above 21 mpg — not bad considering the truck’s size and large, naturally aspirated V6.
And for a truck that plays both commuter and adventure buddy roles pretty well, that fuel economy feels justifiable. Case in point: The Ridgeline TrailSport has a payload rating of 1,580 pounds and can tow up to 5,000 pounds. Not too shabby. Whether you’re towing a small trailer or hauling gear for a weekend DIY project, the Ridgeline has your back, if you’re willing to pay the $46,830 price tag.
Photo courtesy Honda
Final thoughts
The 2024 Honda Ridgeline TrailSport does an excellent job of being what 90% of the body-on-frame competition is, while far exceeding them in terms of ride comfort, daily drivability and practicality. Sure, it won’t conquer Moab, but the TrailSport offers just enough capability to do most of the off-roading that the majority of truck buyers will encounter.
Whether you’re an adventurer or simply looking for a reliable and practical vehicle for everyday use, the Ridgeline TrailSport is worth considering. In a crowded segment of capable trucks, the 2024 Honda Ridgeline TrailSport stands out for its unique and appealing blend of comfort, versatility and hints of ruggedness.
If you’re in the market for a new midsize truck, give the Honda Ridgeline TrailSport a test drive. It might just surprise you.
Shop Honda Ridgeline listings on KSL Cars
Photo courtesy Honda
Highs
TrailSport trim adds attractive and useful features
Capable of doing light-duty truck stuff
Able to conquer mild trails with ease
Blends practicality, comfort and utility better than almost anyone
Lows
So-so fuel economy
Styling might not be for everyone
Slightly on the pricey side
FAQs
Is it fun to drive?
While it’s not thrilling or even particularly exciting, the Ridgeline is pleasant to drive. It’s easy, light, gentle and never feels burdensome.
Is it good for families?
Actually, yes. If you have two or three children, you’ll find plenty of space and storage cubbies for all your gear, especially in the bed and with the in-bed trunk.
*KSL Cars does not endorse any vehicles. The views or opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer and do not reflect the views or opinions of KSL.com or its employees.
More from KSL Cars Resources
View More
