2017 Honda Ridgeline

When the 2017 Honda Ridgeline re-entered the midsize truck market, it did so with a bold philosophy: it refused to conform to the traditional "body-on-frame" expectations of its competitors. Instead, Honda leveraged its expertise in unibody engineering to create a truck that offers the ride quality of a crossover SUV while maintaining the utility needed for weekend projects. For drivers who want the benefits of a pickup bed without the harsh, bouncy ride typically associated with segment rivals, this vehicle stands out as a masterclass in compromise and comfort.

Table of Contents

Design Philosophy and Capability

The 2017 Honda Ridgeline features a unique unibody construction, which sets it apart from trucks like the Toyota Tacoma or the Chevrolet Colorado. By utilizing a platform shared with the Honda Pilot, engineers were able to provide a sophisticated four-wheel independent suspension system. This results in superior handling, minimal body roll during cornering, and a cabin experience that is impressively quiet at highway speeds.

Despite its unconventional platform, the truck remains a functional workhorse. It features a composite bed that is resistant to rust and dents, eliminating the need for a separate bed liner in many cases. The bed is wide enough to lay a sheet of plywood flat between the wheel wells—a feat many other midsize trucks struggle to achieve. Furthermore, the Dual-Action Tailgate, which can either fold down or swing open like a door, provides unmatched access to the cargo area.

Performance and Powertrain

Under the hood of the 2017 Honda Ridgeline sits a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, providing plenty of muscle for merging onto highways and towing moderate loads. Key performance highlights include:

Intelligent Traction Management: Allows drivers to select modes for Snow, Mud, or Sand, optimizing engine and transmission response.
Towing Capacity: Capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
Fuel Efficiency: Offers competitive MPG figures for the midsize truck segment, outperforming many heavier traditional competitors.

💡 Note: While the vehicle is highly capable for light-to-medium duty, it is not designed for heavy-duty commercial towing, so ensure you check the payload and tongue weight limits before hitching a trailer.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Step inside the cabin, and you are greeted with materials and ergonomics that feel more like a luxury SUV than a utilitarian pickup. The 2017 Honda Ridgeline prioritizes passenger comfort with ample rear legroom and high-quality soft-touch surfaces. The tech suite is equally impressive, featuring a touchscreen infotainment system that supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto—a significant advantage for modern connectivity.

Feature	Benefit
In-Bed Trunk	A lockable, watertight storage compartment integrated into the bed floor.
Truck Bed Audio System	Exciters built into the bed walls that turn the entire bed into a speaker.
Honda Sensing	Advanced safety suite including collision mitigation and lane-keeping assist.

Versatility and Everyday Usability

The standout feature for many owners is undoubtedly the In-Bed Trunk. This innovative storage space provides a secure, hidden area to store tools, groceries, or camping gear, preventing items from sliding around the main bed. Because it is completely weatherproof, it essentially turns the bed of the truck into a massive, usable storage solution that is rarely seen in other vehicles.

Another major advantage of the 2017 Honda Ridgeline is its cabin storage. The rear seats feature a 60/40 split and can fold up entirely, creating a large, flat vertical storage area behind the front seats. This is perfect for hauling tall items that you do not want exposed to the elements, such as large potted plants, delicate equipment, or expensive electronics.

Safety Considerations

Safety was a primary focus for Honda during the development of this model. The 2017 Honda Ridgeline earned high marks from both the IIHS and the NHTSA, owing largely to its rigid structure and the availability of the Honda Sensing suite. Blind-spot monitoring and rearview cameras are standard on many trims, while higher trims include radar-based cruise control, which makes long-distance travel significantly less tiring for the driver.

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For families who use their truck as a daily driver, the LATCH system for child seats is exceptionally easy to access compared to other trucks in the class. This makes the Ridgeline an ideal choice for parents who need the bed for home improvement projects on the weekend but require a safe, comfortable vehicle for school runs during the week.

💡 Note: Always ensure that your tires are properly inflated and the alignment is checked annually, as this will help preserve the refined ride quality that characterizes the unibody architecture.

Ultimately, the 2017 Honda Ridgeline serves as the perfect bridge between a traditional pickup truck and a comfortable family SUV. By prioritizing refined driving dynamics, clever storage solutions, and a high-tech cabin, Honda successfully carved out a niche for buyers who need utility without the rough edges. Its ability to handle daily commuting with ease while still offering enough muscle to tackle weekend projects makes it a practical, well-rounded choice in the pre-owned truck market. Whether you are looking for a vehicle to transport sports equipment, haul DIY materials, or simply enjoy a quiet and stable daily drive, this truck remains a compelling option that values real-world usability over raw, aggressive aesthetics.

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