2021 Honda Ridgeline Review

The Honda Ridgeline didn't wind up as our top-ranked midsize pickup truck on accident. Its smooth ride, innovative storage options, and quiet, comfortable interior make it stand out in a class full of rough-and-tumble trucks. But other than the exposed bed, the Ridgeline has never really looked like much of a traditional pickup. Its relatively passive styling has run counter to the rugged looks of the Toyota Tacoma and Chevrolet Colorado. And while most truck buyers will never explore the outer reaches of their truck's off-road capability, the Ridgeline didn't look up for adventure in the same way as its rivals. Honda is intent on changing that perception.

While a midcycle refresh is nothing new for most manufacturers, most keep it simple and tweak plastic parts such as bumpers and fascias. But the 2021 Ridgeline is sporting entirely new sheet metal from the windshield forward. The straight bodyline now runs through the length of the redesigned hood, right to the much more vertical nose. The grille has been enlarged and squared off, making the front of the Ridgeline look much like the Tacoma. Early photos show the Ridgeline with an HPD (Honda Performance Development) Appearance package that includes squared-off fender guards, graphics and snazzy gold wheels. Three other HPD packages — named the Protection, Utility and Function packages — will be detailed closer to the Ridgeline's on-sale date.