2023 Honda Ridgeline: Rugged Utility, Smart Features
- 2023 Honda Ridgeline: Rugged Utility, Smart Features
- What’s New and Model Updates in the 2023 Honda Ridgeline
- Design and Exterior Enhancements
- Cabin and Functional Updates
- Model Lineup and Trim Updates
- Engine Options and Real-World Performance Review
- Powertrain and Technical Overview
- On-Road Performance
- Off-Road and All-Terrain Capability
- Highlights
- Driving Experience, Suspension, and Off-Road Handling
- Ride Comfort and Chassis Balance
- Off-Road Capability and AWD Performance
- Highway and Urban Behavior
- Highlights
- Interior Design and Cabin Comfort
- Cabin Layout and Materials
- Seating Comfort and Practicality
- Comfort and Convenience Features
- Highlights
- Safety and Driver Assistance Technologies
- Structural Safety and Build Quality
- Honda Sensing: Advanced ADAS Integration
- Passive Safety and Support Systems
- Highlights
- Technology and Infotainment: Inside the Honda Display Audio System
- Infotainment System and Interface
- HondaLink and Connectivity Features
- Audio and Cabin Technology
- Highlights
- Fuel Efficiency and Towing Performance
- Fuel Efficiency and Driving Economy
- Towing and Payload Capability
- Real-World Versatility
- Highlights
- Dimensions, Payload, and Practical Usability
- Exterior Dimensions and Stance
- Cargo Bed and Storage Solutions
- Practical Usability and Everyday Functionality
- Highlights
- Common Issues and Reliability Overview
- Proven Reliability and Engineering Quality
- Commonly Reported Minor Issues
- Long-Term Durability and Component Strength
- Highlights
- Maintenance and Long-Term Ownership Review
- Routine Maintenance Schedule
- Cost of Ownership and Service Network
- Long-Term Durability and Resale Value
- Highlights
- Frequently Asked Questions About 2023 Honda Ridgeline
- What engine powers the 2023 Honda Ridgeline?
- Is the 2023 Honda Ridgeline good for off-road driving?
- How much can the 2023 Honda Ridgeline tow?
- Does the 2023 Honda Ridgeline offer good fuel efficiency?
- What are the key safety features in the 2023 Honda Ridgeline?
- How reliable is the 2023 Honda Ridgeline?
- What makes the Ridgeline’s bed design unique?
- How does the 2023 Ridgeline compare to body-on-frame trucks?
- What are common issues reported with the 2023 Ridgeline?
- Does the Ridgeline hybrid or electric version exist?
The 2023 Honda Ridgeline stands out in the midsize pickup segment with its perfect mix of utility, comfort, and innovation. Unlike traditional body-on-frame trucks, the Ridgeline uses a unibody construction, giving it SUV-like refinement without sacrificing strength. For 2023, Honda refines its formula further with updated infotainment, improved all-wheel drive (AWD) responsiveness, and enhanced interior quality. This truck bridges the gap between everyday drivability and tough-duty performance, making it ideal for urban users who still need serious capability when the road gets rough.
What’s New and Model Updates in the 2023 Honda Ridgeline
The 2023 Honda Ridgeline brings subtle yet meaningful refinements that elevate its versatility, comfort, and capability. While its core design and powertrain remain unchanged, Honda has refined key details to ensure the Ridgeline continues to deliver a premium, truck-like experience with the refinement of a crossover.
Design and Exterior Enhancements
Visually, the 2023 Honda Ridgeline retains its rugged, confident stance but features a few aesthetic and functional updates. The front fascia includes a redesigned grille, reshaped LED headlights, and a revised bumper contour that emphasizes width and stability. The truck bed now features an upgraded scratch-resistant composite liner, while all trims receive standard LED fog lamps and 18-inch alloy wheels with fresh designs.
New exterior color options — such as Sonic Gray Pearl and Radiant Red Metallic II — enhance its modern appeal. Honda has also optimized the aerodynamics around the A-pillars and underbody panels, improving both fuel efficiency and wind noise reduction at higher speeds.
Cabin and Functional Updates
Inside, the Ridgeline focuses on driver comfort and usability. The infotainment system has been upgraded with a faster 8-inch touchscreen that supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The center console gains a reconfigured layout for better storage, while the rear seatbacks can be folded up to expand cargo capacity.
Noise insulation materials have been added around the firewall and floorpan, reducing cabin vibrations. The tri-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, and leather-wrapped steering wheel are now standard on more trims, reflecting Honda’s intent to blend pickup durability with SUV luxury.
Model Lineup and Trim Updates
The 2023 Honda Ridgeline continues with four trims — Sport, RTL, RTL-E, and Black Edition. All variants now come standard with i-VTM4 (Intelligent Variable Torque Management) AWD, delivering improved traction control and cornering stability.
| Trim | Drivetrain | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Sport | AWD | Smart Entry, LED lighting, 8-inch Display Audio |
| RTL | AWD | Leather seats, power moonroof, heated mirrors |
| RTL-E | AWD | Premium audio, wireless phone charger, navigation |
| Black Edition | AWD | Exclusive styling, black alloy wheels, ambient lighting |
Overall, the 2023 Honda Ridgeline focuses on refinement over revolution — introducing thoughtful upgrades that make it more comfortable, more connected, and even more capable as a daily driver and weekend workhorse.
Engine Options and Real-World Performance Review

The 2023 Honda Ridgeline continues to rely on a proven powertrain formula that blends smooth performance with impressive durability. Its single-engine lineup reflects Honda’s focus on reliability and refined power delivery rather than raw output. The result is a pickup that feels as composed on highways as it is capable on rugged terrain.
Powertrain and Technical Overview
Under the hood lies Honda’s dependable 3.5L SOHC i-VTEC V6 engine, producing 280 horsepower and 355 Nm of torque. This engine pairs with a 9-speed automatic transmission, tuned for both responsive acceleration and efficient cruising. Power is distributed through the standard i-VTM4 (Intelligent Variable Torque Management) AWD system, which actively sends torque to individual rear wheels to enhance traction and stability.
| Engine | Displacement | Power | Torque | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5L i-VTEC V6 | 3,471 cc | 280 hp | 355 Nm | 9-Speed Automatic | AWD (i-VTM4) |
The V6 engine uses direct fuel injection and a Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system that can deactivate cylinders during low-load driving for improved efficiency. The drive-by-wire throttle system provides linear acceleration response, while the active engine mounts reduce vibration for a smoother feel during idle and acceleration.
On-Road Performance
In real-world driving, the 2023 Honda Ridgeline impresses with its refined manners. Despite its size and utility focus, it delivers strong mid-range torque and effortless highway passing power. The 9-speed automatic shifts cleanly, and its paddle shifters give drivers more control when towing or descending steep grades.
Acceleration from 0–100 km/h takes approximately 6.5 seconds, respectable for a midsize truck. The unibody platform, borrowed from the Honda Pilot, contributes to sedan-like handling with less body roll compared to traditional body-on-frame pickups.
Off-Road and All-Terrain Capability
The i-VTM4 AWD system enhances off-road confidence by automatically adjusting torque distribution. On slippery surfaces, it can send up to 70% of torque to the rear axle and precisely vector it between the left and right wheels. Additionally, the Intelligent Traction Management system offers multiple drive modes — Normal, Snow, Mud, and Sand — allowing the Ridgeline to adapt instantly to varying surfaces.
Highlights
- Refined 3.5L i-VTEC V6 engine with strong mid-range torque
- Smooth 9-speed automatic with adaptive logic control
- Advanced i-VTM4 AWD for improved traction and cornering stability
- VCM technology for enhanced fuel efficiency
- Quiet and composed ride on both pavement and dirt roads
Overall, the 2023 Honda Ridgeline proves that rugged capability and everyday drivability can coexist. Its combination of responsive power delivery, refined handling, and intelligent AWD technology makes it one of the most balanced trucks in its class.
Driving Experience, Suspension, and Off-Road Handling
Behind the wheel, the 2023 Honda Ridgeline delivers a driving experience unlike most traditional pickups. Thanks to its unibody construction, independent suspension, and intelligent AWD technology, it feels smoother, quieter, and more responsive — bridging the gap between SUV comfort and truck functionality.
Ride Comfort and Chassis Balance
Unlike body-on-frame rivals, the Ridgeline’s unibody platform provides a rigid structure that improves ride quality and chassis precision. The truck employs a fully independent suspension setup — MacPherson struts in the front and a multi-link rear — which significantly enhances stability and absorbs road imperfections effectively.
This design allows the 2023 Honda Ridgeline to maintain excellent composure on uneven pavement while minimizing body roll through corners. Honda engineers also recalibrated the electric power steering (EPS) system to offer better feedback and variable weighting at different speeds. The result is precise handling that feels more like a crossover than a heavy-duty pickup.
Off-Road Capability and AWD Performance
When the pavement ends, the Ridgeline’s i-VTM4 (Intelligent Variable Torque Management) AWD system steps in to handle challenging terrain. It continuously monitors wheel speed, throttle position, and yaw rate to deliver torque exactly where it’s needed.
The Intelligent Traction Management system provides four selectable modes — Normal, Snow, Mud, and Sand — each fine-tuning throttle sensitivity, gear ratios, and AWD torque distribution.
| Drive Mode | Surface Type | Torque Behavior | Notable Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Normal | Dry pavement | Balanced front-rear torque | Everyday comfort |
| Snow | Slippery surfaces | Rear torque bias | Enhanced traction |
| Mud | Wet, loose terrain | Aggressive torque transfer | Improved grip |
| Sand | Deep sand | Rear torque emphasis | Prevents bogging down |
While not a hardcore off-roader, the Ridgeline performs confidently on gravel trails, forest paths, and light mud. Its ground clearance of 200 mm and approach/departure angles are adequate for moderate off-road use, while the AWD torque vectoring ensures stability even when one wheel loses traction.
Highway and Urban Behavior
On paved roads, the 2023 Honda Ridgeline excels in refinement. The cabin remains quiet even at highway speeds, thanks to advanced NVH isolation, active noise cancellation, and acoustic windshield technology. Steering is light during parking yet firm at cruising speeds, and the truck feels remarkably agile in tight urban settings for its size.
Highlights
- Smooth, car-like handling from unibody chassis
- Fully independent suspension with advanced damping
- Four Intelligent Traction Management modes for varied terrain
- Predictable steering response and minimal body roll
- Balanced ride comfort across city, highway, and light off-road conditions
In essence, the 2023 Honda Ridgeline redefines what a midsize pickup can feel like to drive. It merges the confidence of an SUV with the practicality of a truck, creating one of the most comfortable and composed driving experiences in its segment.
Interior Design and Cabin Comfort
Inside the 2023 Honda Ridgeline, the focus is on everyday usability, comfort, and refinement — qualities not often prioritized in traditional trucks. Honda has applied its signature ergonomic design philosophy to create a cabin that feels spacious, practical, and premium, without losing the rugged appeal expected from a pickup.
Cabin Layout and Materials
The Ridgeline’s interior design blends SUV-like comfort with functional toughness. The dashboard features soft-touch materials, brushed metallic accents, and a clean, horizontal design that emphasizes width and space. Honda has revised the center console for 2023 with a more intuitive layout, including a larger armrest and improved cupholder configuration to accommodate larger bottles.
Trim-specific touches elevate the interior experience — the RTL and above trims gain leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, while the Black Edition adds red ambient lighting and black headliner detailing. Build quality throughout the cabin feels tight and consistent, maintaining Honda’s reputation for durability and craftsmanship.
Seating Comfort and Practicality
The 2023 Honda Ridgeline comfortably seats five adults, with generous legroom and headroom across both rows. The front seats offer excellent lumbar support and wide cushions suited for long drives, while the rear seats feature a 60:40 split-folding design for flexible cargo expansion.
| Seating Dimension | Front | Rear |
|---|---|---|
| Headroom | 1,003 mm | 986 mm |
| Legroom | 1,039 mm | 932 mm |
| Shoulder Room | 1,575 mm | 1,560 mm |
| Hip Room | 1,470 mm | 1,440 mm |
One of the Ridgeline’s cleverest features is the flip-up rear seat base, allowing users to carry tall or bulky items inside the cabin — such as bicycles or storage bins — protected from the weather.
Comfort and Convenience Features
The 2023 Honda Ridgeline integrates a wide array of amenities designed for convenience and comfort:
- Tri-zone automatic climate control
- 10-way power driver’s seat with lumbar support
- Heated front seats and available heated steering wheel
- Rear AC vents for consistent airflow
- Acoustic windshield and advanced NVH insulation
In addition, Honda has improved the sound insulation around the floorpan and firewall, making the cabin exceptionally quiet, even during off-road use or at highway speeds.
Highlights
- SUV-grade interior refinement with durable materials
- Versatile rear seat folding mechanism for flexible storage
- Excellent seating ergonomics and all-day comfort
- Enhanced cabin insulation for superior quietness
- Premium trim options and functional design throughout
The 2023 Honda Ridgeline redefines truck comfort with thoughtful ergonomics and premium finishes. It’s a cabin designed to handle muddy boots during workdays and relaxed family trips on weekends — a rare blend of practicality and sophistication.
Safety and Driver Assistance Technologies
The 2023 Honda Ridgeline reinforces Honda’s longstanding reputation for safety and driver confidence. Combining a robust ACE (Advanced Compatibility Engineering) body structure with the latest Honda Sensing suite, it provides comprehensive protection and assistance for both everyday driving and challenging conditions.
Structural Safety and Build Quality
At the foundation of the 2023 Honda Ridgeline is Honda’s ACE body structure, engineered to absorb and distribute crash energy effectively across the front frame. This reduces impact forces directed toward the cabin and enhances passenger protection in collisions. The use of ultra-high-tensile steel in key load-bearing areas further improves rigidity while minimizing vehicle weight.
The Ridgeline’s unibody construction also contributes to structural integrity — offering smoother crash deformation patterns than conventional body-on-frame trucks. This translates to greater occupant safety and improved handling under load.
Honda Sensing: Advanced ADAS Integration
All trims of the 2023 Honda Ridgeline come standard with the Honda Sensing suite, a collection of advanced ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) designed to reduce driver workload and prevent accidents.
Core Honda Sensing features include:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS)
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
- Road Departure Mitigation (RDM)
- Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
These systems work in tandem through a front-mounted camera and radar sensors, continuously monitoring traffic and lane positioning to ensure proactive intervention when necessary.
Passive Safety and Support Systems
Beyond electronics, the 2023 Honda Ridgeline is equipped with a comprehensive list of passive safety features:
- Front, side, and curtain airbags with rollover sensors
- ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
- Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with Traction Control
- Hill Start Assist (HSA) and Trailer Stability Assist (TSA)
- Multi-angle rearview camera and blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert
The combination of structural safety, intelligent assistance, and visibility aids makes the Ridgeline one of the safest trucks in its category.
Highlights
- Standard Honda Sensing suite across all trims
- Rigid ACE body structure for superior crash performance
- Comprehensive airbag system with rollover detection
- Advanced VSA, TSA, and blind-spot assist for greater confidence
- Exceptional crash-test results in both frontal and side-impact evaluations
Overall, the 2023 Honda Ridgeline doesn’t just protect — it actively prevents danger. Through its advanced design and technology integration, Honda has turned this rugged pickup into a leader in safety innovation.
Technology and Infotainment: Inside the Honda Display Audio System
The 2023 Honda Ridgeline integrates advanced connectivity and intuitive technology, designed to enhance convenience and entertainment on every drive. Honda has refined its Display Audio system and connectivity suite to match the expectations of modern truck buyers who demand both rugged utility and digital sophistication.
Infotainment System and Interface
At the center of the cabin lies an 8-inch Honda Display Audio touchscreen, featuring Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility — both wireless in higher trims. The interface has been optimized with faster processing, reduced input lag, and a clearer menu layout. Honda has also enlarged key icons for easier operation while driving, reducing distractions.
The RTL-E and Black Edition trims include integrated navigation, voice recognition, and HD Radio, while all versions offer Bluetooth streaming, USB connectivity, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The display also serves as the interface for the multi-angle rearview camera, providing wide, normal, and top-down perspectives for easier parking and trailer alignment.
HondaLink and Connectivity Features
The 2023 Honda Ridgeline comes equipped with HondaLink, a connected telematics platform that syncs the vehicle with the owner’s smartphone. Through the HondaLink app, users can:
- Remotely start the engine and precondition the cabin
- Receive maintenance alerts and service reminders
- Check fuel level and battery status
- Locate the vehicle via GPS tracking
- Access roadside assistance and emergency notifications
This integration ensures drivers stay informed about their vehicle’s health and location at all times.
Audio and Cabin Technology
The Ridgeline doesn’t just excel in digital convenience — it also offers a premium in-cabin experience. The available 540-watt 8-speaker premium sound system delivers crisp, balanced acoustics, while the exclusive Truck-Bed Audio System (available on RTL-E and Black Edition) transforms the bed into an outdoor speaker setup — ideal for tailgates or camping trips.
Additional tech conveniences include:
- Wireless charging pad
- Multiple USB Type-A and Type-C ports
- Dual-zone or tri-zone climate control (depending on trim)
- Push-button start and remote engine ignition
Highlights
- Fast, intuitive 8-inch Display Audio interface
- Comprehensive HondaLink smartphone integration
- Premium 540W audio system with Truck-Bed speakers
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
- Advanced voice command and navigation features
The 2023 Honda Ridgeline proves that technology and toughness can coexist. Its user-focused infotainment layout, connected services, and class-exclusive features make it one of the most advanced and convenient midsize pickups on the market.
Fuel Efficiency and Towing Performance

The 2023 Honda Ridgeline demonstrates that a capable midsize truck can also be efficient and smooth. Its 3.5L i-VTEC V6 engine and 9-speed automatic transmission are tuned for consistent performance, while Honda’s Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system enhances fuel economy without compromising power delivery.
Fuel Efficiency and Driving Economy
The Ridgeline’s combination of direct fuel injection, low-friction engine components, and aerodynamic optimization results in impressive real-world fuel efficiency for its size and capability. The VCM system deactivates up to three cylinders during light-load cruising, improving overall efficiency.
| Drivetrain | City | Highway | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| AWD (i-VTM4) | 12 km/l | 9 km/l | ~10.5 km/l |
While not as fuel-efficient as smaller crossovers, the 2023 Honda Ridgeline leads among midsize pickups in balancing performance and economy. The ECON mode further adjusts throttle sensitivity and air conditioning load to conserve fuel during daily commutes.
Towing and Payload Capability
The 2023 Ridgeline is not just a comfortable daily driver — it’s built for genuine utility. With its i-VTM4 AWD system, the truck can tow up to 5,000 pounds (2,268 kg) when properly equipped. The unibody frame may limit extreme hauling, but it delivers more stable towing characteristics than many ladder-frame rivals thanks to its rigidity and lower center of gravity.
| Capability Metric | Specification |
|---|---|
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Maximum Payload | 1,583 lbs (718 kg) |
| Bed Length | 5.3 ft (1.6 m) |
| Bed Width | 5.0 ft (1.5 m) |
| In-Bed Trunk Volume | 207 liters |
The dual-action tailgate — which can swing open sideways or fold down traditionally — makes loading and unloading much easier. The composite bed material is dent-resistant and eliminates the need for a traditional bed liner, ensuring long-term durability with minimal maintenance.
Real-World Versatility
Owners report excellent stability while towing small trailers, boats, or campers, largely due to the torque-vectoring AWD system and the 9-speed transmission’s tow-specific programming. Additionally, the Trailer Stability Assist (TSA) actively adjusts braking and throttle inputs to reduce sway during highway towing.
Highlights
- Efficient 3.5L i-VTEC V6 with VCM technology
- 5,000-lb towing capacity and 718-kg payload rating
- Dual-action tailgate and composite cargo bed
- Smooth and predictable AWD torque management
- Balanced mix of performance, economy, and practicality
In summary, the 2023 Honda Ridgeline offers the capability of a true truck with the refinement of a crossover — ideal for drivers who want strong towing and everyday efficiency without sacrificing comfort or drivability.
Dimensions, Payload, and Practical Usability
The 2023 Honda Ridgeline continues to set itself apart in the midsize pickup segment by offering clever design efficiency, excellent interior space, and highly functional utility features. Built on Honda’s Global Light Truck Platform, shared with the Pilot and Passport, it delivers SUV-like practicality with genuine truck versatility.
Exterior Dimensions and Stance
Honda has designed the Ridgeline with proportions that balance urban maneuverability and cargo functionality. Its wide track and low center of gravity contribute to impressive stability, both on the highway and with heavy loads.
| Dimension | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Overall Length | 5,339 mm |
| Overall Width | 1,996 mm |
| Overall Height | 1,798 mm |
| Wheelbase | 3,178 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 200 mm |
| Turning Radius | 6.3 m |
These measurements make the 2023 Honda Ridgeline one of the widest trucks in its class — improving cornering stability and interior shoulder room — while maintaining a manageable footprint for city driving.
Cargo Bed and Storage Solutions
One of the Ridgeline’s biggest advantages is its innovative dual-action tailgate and In-Bed Trunk system. The 5.3-foot bed can carry large items with ease, while the lockable underfloor storage compartment (207 liters) adds hidden versatility unmatched by competitors. The bed itself is made from reinforced composite material, which is both scratch-resistant and corrosion-proof, eliminating the need for aftermarket liners.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Bed Length | 1,626 mm |
| Bed Width (between wheel wells) | 1,270 mm |
| Bed Width (overall) | 1,524 mm |
| In-Bed Trunk Capacity | 207 L |
| Payload Capacity | 718 kg |
In addition, the truck bed integrates tie-down cleats, a 120V AC outlet, and — on higher trims — the class-exclusive Truck-Bed Audio System, which turns the bed panels into outdoor speakers powered by actuators.
Practical Usability and Everyday Functionality
The Ridgeline’s 60:40 split-folding rear seats create additional in-cabin cargo flexibility, allowing large items to be stored upright when the bed is full. The wide-opening doors and low step-in height make passenger entry and loading easy — a detail appreciated in everyday use.
Honda’s design focus extends to small conveniences like the flat rear floor, multiple 12V outlets, and generous door storage bins. Together, they make the Ridgeline one of the most livable and versatile trucks for both work and family life.
Highlights
- Wide and stable stance with 200 mm ground clearance
- Durable composite truck bed with dual-action tailgate
- Unique In-Bed Trunk offering secure, weatherproof storage
- Spacious cabin ergonomics and low loading height
- Excellent balance between urban practicality and utility
The 2023 Honda Ridgeline demonstrates that a pickup can be both functional and sophisticated. Its thoughtful engineering transforms truck practicality into everyday usability without compromising style or comfort.
Common Issues and Reliability Overview
The 2023 Honda Ridgeline continues to strengthen Honda’s reputation for long-term dependability. Built on proven mechanical components and a robust unibody platform, it offers excellent reliability backed by real-world owner data and industry evaluations.
Proven Reliability and Engineering Quality
The Ridgeline’s 3.5L i-VTEC V6 engine and 9-speed automatic transmission have been extensively tested across Honda’s light-truck lineup. This powertrain is known for its mechanical simplicity, low failure rate, and smooth operation even after high mileage. Routine maintenance remains straightforward, and major engine components are designed for extended durability — with timing belt replacements typically required only every 160,000 km.
The i-VTM4 AWD system also benefits from Honda’s reliability track record. With fewer mechanical components than traditional part-time 4WD systems, it offers smoother engagement and fewer potential failure points, reducing long-term ownership costs.
Commonly Reported Minor Issues
While the 2023 Honda Ridgeline maintains near-exemplary dependability, a few minor concerns have been noted by early owners and technical bulletins. These are non-critical and easily resolved during regular servicing:
- Occasional infotainment lag after prolonged use (resolved via software updates)
- Brake dust accumulation on alloy wheels during urban driving
- Wind noise at high speeds due to roof molding gaps on certain units
- Slight paint chipping near the front bumper in harsh climates
These issues do not affect performance or safety and are often addressed through warranty coverage or dealer service campaigns.
Long-Term Durability and Component Strength
The unibody construction of the Ridgeline provides enhanced rigidity, minimizing flex under load and contributing to its long-lasting build quality. Owners consistently report minimal rattles or squeaks even after years of heavy use. The suspension components, including the multi-link rear setup, are engineered to handle repeated towing and rough terrain without premature wear.
Electrical reliability is also strong — systems like Honda Sensing, AWD sensors, and hybrid electronics (where applicable) show excellent resilience under extended use. Battery drain incidents are rare, thanks to efficient power management software in the latest models.
Highlights
- Robust i-VTEC V6 and 9-speed automatic with strong reliability history
- Durable unibody platform resistant to flex and vibration
- Few minor issues, mostly cosmetic or software-based
- Consistent owner satisfaction and high reliability ratings
- Excellent long-term build integrity and component longevity
Overall, the 2023 Honda Ridgeline offers one of the most dependable ownership experiences in the midsize pickup segment. Its combination of mechanical durability, low failure rates, and Honda’s quality engineering ensures that it remains a trustworthy partner for both work and leisure over the long haul.
Maintenance and Long-Term Ownership Review
The 2023 Honda Ridgeline exemplifies the kind of reliability and ease of ownership that Honda is known for. Designed with simplicity, durability, and cost efficiency in mind, it offers a long-term ownership experience that minimizes both downtime and expense while maintaining excellent resale value.
Routine Maintenance Schedule
Honda’s maintenance plan for the 2023 Ridgeline is straightforward and cost-effective, focusing on preventive care rather than reactive repairs. Routine servicing is recommended every 10,000 km or 12 months, depending on usage. The Maintenance Minder System, built into the vehicle’s infotainment display, automatically alerts owners when services are due.
| Service Type | Interval | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Oil & Filter | Every 10,000 km | Use Honda Genuine 0W-20 synthetic oil |
| Air Filter | Every 20,000 km | Replace more often in dusty conditions |
| Brake Fluid & Coolant | Every 30,000 km | Maintain optimal braking and thermal efficiency |
| Transmission Fluid (9AT) | Every 40,000 km | Preserves smooth shifting and component life |
| AWD System Inspection (i-VTM4) | Every 20,000 km | Check for fluid level and wear |
| Timing Belt | Every 160,000 km | Replacement ensures long-term engine reliability |
Following this schedule ensures consistent performance and prevents premature wear of critical components.
Cost of Ownership and Service Network
The 2023 Honda Ridgeline benefits from Honda’s extensive global service network and availability of genuine parts. Maintenance costs are among the lowest in the midsize truck segment, aided by the engine’s simplicity and the use of durable composite materials that reduce corrosion.
The VCM (Variable Cylinder Management) system and i-VTM4 AWD require minimal specialized servicing, making them long-lasting without high maintenance overhead. Regular fluid changes and inspections are typically sufficient to ensure trouble-free operation.
Long-Term Durability and Resale Value
Honda’s build quality gives the Ridgeline an impressive long-term track record. Owners frequently report odometer readings well beyond 200,000 km with minimal issues, particularly when using genuine fluids and adhering to scheduled maintenance. The chassis rigidity, paint finish, and interior materials have all been engineered for longevity under varied conditions.
Additionally, the 2023 Ridgeline maintains strong resale value, largely due to its reliability reputation and broad market appeal. Models with documented service histories retain excellent market pricing compared to rival pickups.
Highlights
- Simple, predictable maintenance schedule via Maintenance Minder System
- Long-lasting V6 engine and 9-speed transmission
- Durable AWD drivetrain requiring minimal servicing
- Strong resale value and proven long-term dependability
- Accessible service network with transparent cost structure
The 2023 Honda Ridgeline stands out as a low-maintenance, long-lasting pickup built for owners who value reliability and practicality. It’s a truck engineered to handle hard work while remaining easy to own — a hallmark of Honda’s design philosophy.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2023 Honda Ridgeline
What engine powers the 2023 Honda Ridgeline?
The 2023 Honda Ridgeline is equipped with a 3.5L SOHC i-VTEC V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 355 Nm of torque. It’s paired with a smooth 9-speed automatic transmission and standard i-VTM4 AWD, offering refined yet capable performance for both urban and off-road conditions.
Is the 2023 Honda Ridgeline good for off-road driving?
Yes, while not a hardcore off-roader, the Ridgeline handles light to moderate off-road terrain confidently. Its i-VTM4 AWD system, 200 mm ground clearance, and Intelligent Traction Management with Snow, Mud, and Sand modes provide traction and control across varied conditions.
How much can the 2023 Honda Ridgeline tow?
The 2023 Ridgeline has a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) and a payload limit of 1,583 lbs (718 kg). Its unibody frame ensures excellent towing stability, while Trailer Stability Assist (TSA) and tow-specific transmission programming improve safety when hauling loads.
Does the 2023 Honda Ridgeline offer good fuel efficiency?
Yes. The V6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) delivers around 10.5 km/l combined efficiency. This makes it one of the more fuel-conscious trucks in the midsize category without sacrificing performance or capability.
What are the key safety features in the 2023 Honda Ridgeline?
Safety is a major highlight, with all trims featuring Honda Sensing, which includes Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS), Collision Mitigation Braking (CMBS), and Road Departure Mitigation (RDM). Additional systems like VSA, ABS with EBD, and blind-spot monitoring ensure comprehensive protection.
How reliable is the 2023 Honda Ridgeline?
The Ridgeline is among the most reliable midsize pickups, with its i-VTEC V6 and 9-speed automatic transmission proving dependable in long-term use. Routine servicing and Honda’s durable build quality ensure years of trouble-free ownership.
What makes the Ridgeline’s bed design unique?
The truck features a dual-action tailgate that swings open sideways or folds down traditionally, plus an In-Bed Trunk offering 207 liters of hidden storage. Higher trims even include a Truck-Bed Audio System for outdoor entertainment.
How does the 2023 Ridgeline compare to body-on-frame trucks?
Unlike traditional pickups, the Ridgeline’s unibody construction gives it a smoother ride, better handling, and a quieter cabin. While it sacrifices some extreme towing capability, it excels in everyday usability, comfort, and refinement.
What are common issues reported with the 2023 Ridgeline?
Owners have noted minor issues like infotainment lag, brake dust accumulation, and occasional wind noise at high speeds. These are non-critical and easily resolved through software updates or standard servicing.
Does the Ridgeline hybrid or electric version exist?
As of 2023, no hybrid or EV variant of the Honda Ridgeline is offered. However, Honda is developing hybrid and electric powertrains for future models as part of its long-term electrification strategy.






