New Ridgeline has 73-lb. lower curb weight than the first-gen model but 28% more torsional rigidity. 58.1% of body is advanced materials, including cast-magnesium steering hanger beam and aluminum hood.
Honda touts Ridgeline's segment-unique flat rear floor as competitive advantage.
In-bed trunk remains but floor now flat thanks to a muffler rerouting.
Sand mode one of four modes (normal, snow, mud others) on AWD Ridgeline's Intelligent Traction Management system.
Ridgeline's bed 4 ins. longer than before due to customer complaints. Fender and door frame now two separate stampings for easier, less costly repairs.
Innovative fold down, swing out tailgate remains for second-gen model. Color of composite bed now integral vs. painted.
Black Edition highest trim level, has perforated black leather seating with red underlayment and red stitching.
Ridgeline interior heavily borrows from Pilot, including tambour-door center console, piano black trim around shifter and cupholders.
Rounded Pilot front end on Ridgeline may not go over well with pickup buyers.
Ridgeline (right) damper has thicker tube, metal construction vs. Pilot damper (left).
Sample of first-gen painted composite bed shows it scratches easily.
'17 Ridgeline's composite bed has color integrated into material, shows scratches less.