Comprehensive Review of the 2024 Honda Ridgeline TrailSport
Today, we are looking at the freshly minted 2024 Honda Ridgeline, precisely the new TrailSport trim grade. This off-road-oriented model sits three-quarters of the way up the trim scale, positioned between the RTL and the top-tier Black Edition. It is well-equipped but not fully loaded, priced at $46,000 as tested, with optional dealer-added packages that can push the total slightly over $50,000.
The Honda Ridgeline has been a staple since its initial test drives in late 2016. While it received a design refresh around 2021, it remains essentially unchanged. For 2024, the TrailSport trim adds a rugged look without significantly altering ground clearance or off-road capabilities.
Table of Contents
Exterior Design and Features
The 2024 Ridgeline TrailSport boasts a unique grille, black trim for a monotone appearance, and LED headlights. It also features a bright orange TrailSport badge and 18-inch five-spoke alloy wheels with all-terrain General Grabber tires. The most significant upgrade is the tires, which provide improved grip in off-road conditions.
The Honda Ridgeline 2024 standout feature remains its versatile bed design. It includes an in-bed trunk, which can double as an ice chest or storage for camping gear, and a dual-action tailgate that can open both traditionally and from the side. For 2024, the tailgate now features “Ridgeline” stamped into the metal, enhancing its rugged appearance.
Interior Comfort and Upgrades
Inside, the 2024 Honda Ridgeline maintains the familiar layout seen in previous models. However, for 2024, there are notable upgrades:
– A new 7-inch digital instrument cluster, standard across all trims, pairs with an analog gauge for a customizable and informative display.
– A redesigned center console offers more storage and a larger area for wireless phone charging.
– Comfortable leather seats with TrailSport logos, heating, power adjustments, and memory settings.
– All-weather rubber floor mats are standard and ideal for outdoor activities.
The rear seats are spacious and versatile, featuring a 60/40 split-folding mechanism for more oversized cargo. High-mounted AC vents ensure comfort for backseat passengers.
Infotainment and Technology
The “2024 Honda Ridgeline” TrailSport comes with a new 9-inch infotainment screen, which is also standard across all trims. It includes:
– Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
– SiriusXM Radio
– Bluetooth connectivity
– Integrated navigation without additional subscription fees
While the audio system isn’t the top-tier option available in the Black Edition, it remains adequate for most users. One drawback at this price point is the lack of a 360-degree surround-view monitor, as the vehicle only includes a single-view backup camera.
Driving Experience
Despite its off-road name, the 2024 Honda Ridgeline trim does not significantly enhance off-road performance compared to other trims. The off-road tuned suspension does not increase ground clearance or offer additional traction features. The primary benefit lies in the all-terrain tires, which provide better grip in rugged conditions.
On the road, the Honda Ridgeline 2024 excels with a smooth and quiet ride, benefiting from its unibody construction. The 3.5L V6 engine, producing 280 horsepower and paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, offers robust performance. The all-wheel-drive system can transfer up to 70% of torque to the rear wheels when needed.
The Ridgeline’s fuel economy is rated at 18 MPG city, 23 MPG highway. In real-world conditions, it achieved 18 MPG.
The 2024 Honda Ridgeline TrailSport offers a unique blend of rugged style and everyday comfort. While it does not significantly enhance off-road capabilities, its design and features make it a compelling choice for those seeking a versatile midsize truck.
Overall Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars
The 2024 Honda Ridgeline TrailSport is a top contender in its category, offering premium quality and a refined driving experience. Whether for city driving, occasional off-road adventures, or daily errands, it remains a highly recommended option.
The 2024 Honda Ridgeline Trail Sport is here to join the Over landing party.
Honda’s Ridgeline beat the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz to the unibody truck world by sixteen years, and the Japanese automaker has used much of that time to refine and evolve its solo pickup truck offerings. For the 2024 model year, Honda is cashing in on the over-the-road vehicle trend and building a rugged, off-road-oriented Ridgeline TrailSport.
The Ridgeline joins the Passport and Pilot in the TrailSport model family, each offering mild modifications to make them look a little more challenging and reach for a little more off-road adventure.
Every Ridgeline trim level is updated for 2024 with a new 7-inch digital instrument cluster and a larger 9-inch center touchscreen with a faster processor. Wireless Apple CarPlay features on the Ridgeline. There’s also a new, larger center console armrest and a large Qi charging pad for mobile phones under the center stack.
With each new TrailSport model we bring to market, Honda light trucks become more rugged than ever, and the Ridgeline’s increased off-road capability and performance continues that trend, said Lance Woelfer, assistant vice president, Honda AutoSales, American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “Our more rugged Ridgeline will continue its strong momentum with sales up more than 20 percent this year.
From the outside, you’ll be able to spot a TrailSport model right from its RIDGELINE-stamped tailgate. Things you can’t immediately see include a set of General Grabber off-road sport tires, an “off-road-tuned suspension,” and steel underbody skid plates.
And the unseen stuff, like a new i-VTM4 torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system and unique valve damping, contributes to creating a seemingly more capable Honda truck. Most Ridgeline owners probably didn’t stray so far off the pavement that they needed this kind of capability, but when are buyers known for buying only as much capability as they need?
Honda says it tested this new Ridgeline in some of the most challenging off-road environments in the world, including the dunes of Glamis and Dubai. Yeah, if this thing can handle off-roading in the UAE, it can probably wobble down the two-track you use to get to your favorite glamping spot.
The new intelligent traction management has modes for sand, snow, mud, and pavement, so hopefully, you won’t get stuck anywhere—and if you do, you’ve gone somewhere you were not meant to be.
The TrailSport model offers this diffused sky blue as a sole color, and I’ll be damned if I don’t upgrade to this version just for the color. It’s a lovely color.
2024 Honda Ridgeline Trail Sport: A Midsize Truck for Modern Life
The 2024 Honda Ridgeline towing capacity is a midsize truck that enhances your daily life with its practicality and ease of use. Unlike the more rugged and attention-grabbing Tacoma, the Ridgeline Trail Sport quietly supports your lifestyle, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—your family, job, and personal pursuits.
Overview and First Impressions
Hello, it’s Charlie from Daily Motor. Today, I’m sharing my experience with the 2024 Honda Ridgeline Trail Sport after spending a week with this impressive truck. Despite technical difficulties during my initial shoot, I’m back with a red Honda Ridgeline Trail Sport to discuss its features and how it stands out in the midsize truck market.
2024 Honda Ridgeline specs
The 2024 Honda Ridgeline model is refreshed and redesigned, with the Trail Sport trim offering a unique suspension and General Grabber AT tires. Positioned just below the top-tier Black Edition, the Trail Sport provides essential features without overwhelming you with extras. The trim structure has been simplified, making it easier to understand what you’re getting at each level.
Practicality and Functionality
The Ridgeline Trail Sport excels in practicality. It features innovative under-truck bed storage, which includes a drainable compartment, making it versatile for various uses, such as a cooler. While it lacks a dampened tailgate, it compensates with robust build quality and thoughtful design.
Interior Comfort and Space
Inside, the 2024 Honda Ridgeline Trail Sport offers a balance of space and comfort. The back seats can fold up, creating ample room for more oversized items like a mountain bike. Passengers will appreciate the generous knee and headroom, as well as amenities like air vents and power points. The front cabin is designed for comfort, with a high seating position, excellent visibility, and a redesigned center console for 2024.
Driving Experience
Driving the 2024 Honda Ridgeline Trail Sport is a pleasant experience. The naturally aspirated V6 engine paired with a 9-speed transmission provides a traditional truck feel, free from the complexities of turbocharged engines. This setup ensures reliability and ease of maintenance. The Trail Sport’s suspension is tuned for a smooth ride, making it suitable for light off-road adventures without sacrificing on-road comfort.
Value and Pricing
One of Ridgeline Trail Sport’s strengths is its value. While it might not boast the latest turbocharged engines or cutting-edge technology, it offers a straightforward and reliable driving experience at a competitive price point. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking a practical and user-friendly midsize truck.
Conclusion
The 2024 Honda Ridgeline Trail Sport is a versatile and practical choice for those who need a reliable midsize truck without frills. It seamlessly blends into your daily life, providing the support you need without demanding attention. Whether you’re commuting, working, or adventuring, the Ridgeline Trail Sport is designed to make your life easier.
Explore more about the 2024 Honda Ridgeline Trail Sport and see how it compares to other midsize trucks in its class. Experience the perfect blend of comfort and understated capability with the Ridgeline Trail Sport.