By The current generation of Honda’s unibody pickup has been around for a long time but we presume it will remain in production for some more time. It was updated two years ago and it still has a lot of good things to offer, starting from the great ride quality and high overall refinement. The next year’s model could bring further enhancements, as there are reports that suggest new powertrain options, electrified. Allegedly, the 2024 Honda Ridgeline Hybrid could arrive by the end of the year.
This version would bring notable improvements regarding fuel economy. It would be more efficient, and we also hope for enough power to provide good driving dynamics. On the other hand, the overall design shouldn’t change much. We expect to see the overall layout, with familiar design and features. Still, minor updates regarding features and trim level organization are possible.
We believe that the 2024 Honda Ridgeline Hybrid could arrive by the end of this year.
2024 Honda Ridgeline Hybrid Powertrain
Of course, the main upgrade would be the new powertrain. We presume that the Japanese manufacturer would offer a hybrid powertrain, though the exact setup is still a mystery. Simply, Honda still doesn’t have such a powerful system that would be appropriate for Ridgeline. Some sources speculate about a new setup, based on a turbo-four engine.
That’s the system that would use the company’s well-known 2.0-liter turbo-four, which would come in pairs with one or two electric motors. Some sources even speculate about the plug-in hybrid setup. In both cases, we expect to see enough power for good driving dynamics. In the case of a self-charging hybrid, that would be around 300 horsepower, while the PHEV could easily offer even more, around 350 horses.
On the other hand, standard models will continue with a familiar 3.5-liter V6, which features a max output of around 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque.
2024 Honda Ridgeline Hybrid Design
We don’t believe that the electrified version could bring more important design changes. Of course, there could be a few exclusive styling details that accentuate the model’s electrified nature, but the overall design would remain the same. In terms of aesthetics, that would mean the same appearance we’ve been seeing since 2021 when this pickup was refreshed and received new, more aggressive styling.
The same is with mechanics. We count on the same chassis and suspension setup, which are based on a unibody platform. A lot of parts are shared with the Pilot, so the ride quality is also similar. Compared to other pickups in the segment, the ride quality is superior, whether it’s about handling or comfort. On the other hand, the main trade-off is the subpar towing capacity, which goes only up to 5.000 pounds. Models like Ford Ranger and Chevy Colorado can tow way over 7.500 pounds.
Interior
This is another aspect where Ridgeline impresses. It offers a car-like interior, with a stylish dashboard design and a very nice selection of materials. Therefore, there is no reason to believe that the Japanese manufacturer could make any notable changes. We expect to see a familiar layout, which comes in a crew cab style only, with one of the most spacious interiors in the class. There are two rows of seats, both very generous with space, accommodating adults with ease.
As the crew cab is the only available, you don’t get spectacular bed capacity. The only version available is with a 5-foot bed, while most rivals are available with cargo beds that are over 6 feet. The max payload capacity is 1.500 pounds.
Features
As we already mentioned, there is a chance to see some new features and maybe even a different trim-level organization. However, we think that most things would remain the same as in the current model. For reference, the current Ridgeline comes standard with goodies like an 8-inch touch screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a seven-speaker stereo, Bluetooth two USB ports, remote keyless entry, push-button start, remote start and tri-zone automatic climate control. Among options, you can find navigation, wireless device charging, satellite radio, HD Radio, two additional USB ports, an eight-speaker stereo with in-bed speakers, power outlets, ambient lighting etc.
The same is with safety features. The current model comes standard with a rearview camera, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning with lane keep assist. Also, you can opt for upgrades like parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic high beams etc.
2024 Honda Ridgeline Hybrid Release Date and Price
Although there is still no official confirmation, rumors suggest that the hybrid version would arrive already by the end of this year. If the 2024 Honda Ridgeline Hybrid happens, we presume that the price would be higher compared to the base gasoline-powered model, which starts at around 39.000 dollars.
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