#75 2017 Honda Ridgeline Owner Review - Towing our Deere 

Tim, thanks for your "real world" review of the Ridgeline. I'm sick and tired of these reviews that focus on some unrealistic off road course where 99% of us would never attempt to travel. All of the ridiculous discussion on whether the Ridgeline is a "truck" or not isn't based on the real world. You can load a motorcycle in the Ridgeline...you can drive to Home Depot and load a 50gal water heater in the Ridgeline...you can't do that in a SUV or a Crossover vehicle. The Ridgeline is every bit as much of a truck as a Tacoma or Colorado. This truck has great utility because it drives like a car, is super comfortable, and can haul most anything for the average owner. If I wanted a hardcore work truck or something for full time off road use (something I will never use), I would entertain buying a Tacoma or some monster truck like a Chevy 2500 with a Duramax diesel. The AWD in the Ridgeline is all I need for driving in the snow, which is about as adventurous as I would get.

Best review of the Honda Ridgeline I have seen so far.

I ordered a Ridgeline RTL-E today and I want to thank you for your video, it was excellent and entertaining. My wife and I enjoyed your wife getting into the trunk. I am going to use a trailer to pull two motorcycles and your demo showed me I have nothing to worry about. You pointed out useful things the dealer never mentioned and I appreciate your video. ThankRichard from Indiana

Love when real customers do reviews and point out what they like/dislike.

Thank you for the review... Finally someone pointing the little things instead of repeating what every other review has said enough.

Happy to have stumbled onto your channel while looking at Ridgeline videos; I appreciate the fresh take you and your wife have put on this video. It's a nice change of pace from the manufacturer and media videos you mention at the beginning. Subscribed!

Great review covering so many items. It was great to see and hear about the arid Ridgeline being used in a real life situation.

Sent by Honda Pro Jason and I loved this review. Just a great, unorthodox review and very informative. I was very happy to see how well the truck tows as in the future I plan to track my car and I think it would be a great truck to accomplish that and it since it is a Honda, there are so much well thought out features. I would definitely love to see more Honda Ridgeline related reviews in the future. Keep it up!!

Thanks for pointing out the little things that other reviews don't show. You and Crissey deserve a five star rating on your review.

This was a great review. I work at Honda it is nice to see happy customers.

You and your wife did a terrific job with this review. I found it quite helpful. Thanks for taking the time to do it.

Hey Y'all from Texas. I love my 2007 Ridgeline. Wife is lovin on the new Ridgelines. I have been chastised for owning a less than a pick-up. Had Dodge trucks for years but I needed a vehicle with lower entry height. My Dad was not able to climb into my last Dodge. Again, I love my Ridgeline.

Love this truck. Enjoyed your video. It was nice to see some practical things that others haven't showed.

I really enjoyed your review. Watching this video helped me decide whether to go with a Tacoma or Ridgeline. I've decided to get a 2019 Ridgeline.

Really liked that you reviewed from an owners prospective. You covered things that I have not seen covered previously. This truck definitely has my interest and suits my particular needs for having a truck. You even have my preferred color choice! Thanks for sharing.

Very nice job on the video. I own a 2006 Ridgeline RTL and was considering a new truck within the next year. The main reason I have a truck is to tow my bass boat and trailer which probably goes around 3500 to 3800 pounds.

Great review! You showed the things that the "professionals" didn't. I learned so much from watching you video. Thank you!

a real review! the "auto journalists" need to take note what people wanna know not just 0 to 60 nonsense

The was an excellent review guys! Thank you for sharing! I've always appreciated homemade, personal and family reviews! Raw, uncut and honest. GOD BLESS YOU ALL!

Kind of gives new meaning to: "Junk in the trunk" Happy Tractoring! Central Indiana, USA

you can sneak your wife into the drive in movies lol 😂😂

By far the best review of the 2017 Honda Ridgeline I've seen yet.

You were putting the ball/receiver in the trunk however, as can be seen when you pulled the spare tire tray, there is an indention to put the ball/receiver in the foam area inside the tire where it will not make any noise (large indention seen at 14:25). I have a 17 ridgeline myself and Honda really did think about where to store the ball/receiver as well.

This is the only review of the Ridgeline I've seen that actually made sense. It seems like the two of you are exactly the kind of people this thing was made for as oppose to every other review out there trying to convince us it's a Tacoma.

Thanks for the video, this is exactly the sort of use that I am interested in. And it's tough getting factual info with all of the machismo that surrounds truck ownership. Also, love your OCD @4:28. :)

Great review! I have been waiting for an owners' review of the new Ridgeline. I own a 2012 Ridgeline RTL w/Navigation and I love it. I don't tow or haul very often, but I live in the CA desert, so it helps a lot for the dirt roads and flash floods we get from time to time. I may wait for Honda's mid-cycle refresh of this new generation of Ridgeline, mainly since Honda generally does a good job at making their vehicles look like new all over again for their current generation of vehicles. You two are pretty funny; I wish we were neighbors, ha! Take care and I look forward to seeing what your new truck can do for you and your needs.

Enjoyed this review of the Ridgeline, especially since I have one of those ~150HP 4-cylinder Tacomas. Really like that truck, but pretty weak on power, and rough around the edges compared to something like a Ridgeline. Wife HATES getting groceries in it as well, because of the 'suicide door' on the extended cab version.

Probably one of my favorite Ridgeline videos. It makes me laugh so hard when people equate their masculinity with a particular truck or against a particular truck. lol... Your hitch might fit in the spare tire above the emergency fuel filler. There is a place for it built in if you have the same design bar molded into the foam. Just a heads up. I am seriously considering one since it fits the job at hand.

best real world review Ive seen ! thank you. I'm actually a Ford fan, but since they dont offer anything in this size, I'm researching others. This review helped a lot!

Best video about the new ridgleine and has proven to me that i could get a great midsize truck that can do everything

I hope the truck served you well, during our bad weather spurt! I was impressed by mine!

Great vid guys, thanks. Very much like the fact that you focused on the towing and things features that other videos did not.

When I bought my Toyota Avalon, I had not resumed my hobby of flying rockets. I joined a rocked club thereafter that owns land in the central Oregon desert a couple thousand feet above sea level, so you have to go up some mild mountains to get there. With all the overnight camping gear, I am cramming my rocket stuff and camping gear into every nook and cranny. Add to that, the Avalon is not exactly designed for country roads or semi-improved ranch trails. I was looking at small SUVs or crossovers to replace the Avalon, but now that I've discovered this second generation of the Ridgeline, it's exactly what I need: a truck that is plenty comfortable to ride for my daily commutes and road trips, gets good mileage for something that size, but can also tow a small camper or trailer with yard maintenance equipment from the rental store, and of course between the club cab back seat, the bed, and the locking trunk, I wouldn't have any trouble lugging all my rocket stuff and camping gear. One other bonus: you can lay flat a 4 x 8 sheet of plywood or drywall in the bed. That's something that no SUV/crossover or even some small/midsize pickups can do. (Interestingly, the new 2022 Nissan Pathfinder SUV is now designed to accommodate a 4 x 8 sheet.) Honda has pretty much gotten it right with this truck.

My wife works in a large manufacturing facility here in Battle Creek, Michigan that makes components for this model. Great and very informative review!!! I know Johnny enjoy the fresh air all over hims too!!! :-)

best review I’ve seen. Most of the other reviews cover info that is available on the Honda web-site. Thanks

Great honest information. Honda AWD (Made in USA - "go figure") caught my eye. Off road reviews are good (Not a rock crawler). I just don't trust my Blazer 4x4 to go in the back country anymore; still runs fine; may rebuild it? New Blazer's are a lousy AWD; and not 4x4. I needed real world info on comfort and towing for this truck; really appreciate it. Thanks!

You can also turn on the side camera by pressing the button on the end of the turn signal lever. The reason they don't have one on the left side is because they don't want you looking on the screen while changing lanes towards the left. When you're looking at the screen and changing the lanes to the right you can still see a bit on what's right besides you. But if you do it with a left lane change you won't be able to see

I looked at a new Ridgeline when I purchased my new CRV. FWD drive truck did not impress me at all but after watching some of the reviews, seeing it's off road capabilities, towing and such, I think I would actually consider one in the AWD. version.

Great review. I love this new Ridgeline. Every issue there was with the last gen was addressed here and more. I really like the idea of a capable truck that doesn't drive like a truck. The RTL-T trim would be my choice too.

Thank you for taking the time. This answered some open questions I had.

Very nice review! I've watched the reviews from the Texas release of the Ridgeline but you covered the everyday features that owners want to know. I looked at one at a Honda dealer and my wife immediately liked it as her pocketbook fit on the storage area between the front seats - don't discount the space for a pocketbook!

Thanks for a great real world review folks! Nice to get away from the big truck hype.

I kind of liked the interior of the old Ridgeline better. A little more rugged and it has big knobs. It's a nice truck don't get me wrong, but the interior looks like a Lexus or Acura. I have a 2006 Ridgeline and I still love it. Best vehicle I have ever owned. For those that question the "masculinity " of owning a Ridgeline you most likely have insecurities and shortcomings somewhere else. Pretty stupid, it has everything a midsized truck owner could want.

One of the best reviews I've seen of this truck. Actually test driving one tomorrow. =)

Wow, great job... I'm looking at the Honda... Was never crazy about the look.... But damn, all the reviews are so positive... I would use it for light duty... Thanks

Your hitch mount is over the spare tyre ... Aaand, good honest review from real people. . Thank you.

i do love some of the features of the Ridgeline like the storage trunk in bed and the 2 Way tailgate, really wish ford and the other truck companies would do this, because i would like more tow capacity

RT clearly stands for Red Truck! Looks beautiful, can't wait to check it out for myself when I get home!

I looked at one of these at the Detroit auto show and was so impressed with it, I’m considering one as my next vehicle. I’ve been leasing full size Ford and Ram trucks for years, so that says a lot. I might actually buy this one and keep it for a long time, because I know Honda builds their machines to do so (Ford does too).

Every Ridgeline owner looks related. Love how his wife couldn't make it through the first minute without interjecting 😂❤

Thanks for the video I got a much better feel for what the truck will do for me :) Up here in Canada they don't have as many trim levels. So after my want/need self discussions, I ended up with the Black Edition (the "want" won the argument)

Nice review! Real nice truck (and color), I drive an '07 RTL-Navi Dark Cherry Pearl as well. I think you'll appreciate the Ridgeline during the snowy months. Thanks for sharing!

Great real world review. I specifically appreciated the spare tire access and that the trunk lid also has proximity lock. Thanks!

I agree with your review. Fun truck to drive. I also bought one a few days ago. The only complaint I have is that the tailgate cannot be locked. Great review

My favorite feature of the Ridgeline is the in bed trunk and the in bed speakers (they're hidden in the bed walls)

the fuel mileage on mine is HORRIBLE Towing - i like a lot about my 2017 Ridgeline but really wished i knew how horrible it is at towing even 2500-3000lbs - it tows it but not well- very innefficient. looking at trading it for a ram ecodiesel now - used one and its way less costs to tow than the ridgeline and its a full size truck. I think you nailed everything else well with your review - nice work to you and your wife! The tailgate and trunk are going to be missed

Too bad the sun was going down and it got too dark, I really enjoyed this Ridgeline review. I've been looking at these vehicles and I've never seen the tire tray pulled out. Great job on this video! I know this is not a 'man's truck' as they say but I no longer use my Ram 1500 to its full capability. I need a family hauler with AWD but I still need a truck bed for hauling dirty stuff, tools and an atv. I'm seriously considering a Honda Ridgeline. The Tacoma does not feel good inside, very tight for me and I feel like I'm sat on the floor. The Ridgeline felt extremely nice and roomy. So...how is the long term testing going? Milage? Problems? Unexpected bonuses? It's time for an update!

Tim, have you looked into getting electric brakes for the trailer? Most auto parts stores have or can get an brake backing plate with shoes, magnet, and drum for 50-100$ a wheel. Most are a bolt on style and it would be cheaper than buying a new trailer. Just run wires to a 7 way plug, (normally a blue wire in a 7 wire cable) and could be an idea.

Great review showing the capabilities of this great truck! I like that you covered the towing and also you guys are too funny. got some good laughs. Awesome though!

Thanks for the real Review and not the stupid is it Truck enough that all the other videos review seem to be.

LOL - "look at that, I can't even lock you in the trunk". Thanks for the great review. Did you wire the brake lights of the trailer to the truck?

AWESOME review.. I thought I liked the truck, but your review made me love this truck!

"Christy in the trunk" sounds like the makings of a country song. :) I was watching the tractor as you were driving and it didn't move at all. If I didn't see the country around it moving it would make me feel like you weren't moving at all. I think you did good.

I love this truck. I'm actually in the market for one now. Nice video.

You know what, I really enjoyed your review. Information for the regular guy. I haul a trailer and boat, good info.

Thanks for sharing your experiences with the Ridgeline. Glad to hear it’s working for you.

i really love how your video is different than the typical videos, thanks for sharing.

Great review. Love the real life family perspective. Thank you.

Awesome review, thanks! I just bought this exact color and trim level, picking up soon, can't wait!

Great review! Really made me want to go and get the new ridgeline!

Definitely agree that all the other guys tested the truck at the same place. Also agree that Tacoma has absolutely ridiculous seating position like sitting in a go cart. The truck seems to be really quite inside, like extremely quite? Thanks for the video.

Thanks for the great review. You guys are pretty corny - in a good way. Thumbs up on the video!

I've got a 2006 with 250k on it and I haven't even changed the headlight bulbs yet. Enjoy! I think the 'T' stands for Touring.

Very fun video. So natural and smooth and real world. Enjoyed it a lot. And learned a ton about the Ridgeline. Highly considering it for my next vehicle.

very impressive capability, I would have thought a midsize truck would feel very overwhelmed towing 5K but it really seemed to handle the weight well I have only ever owned full size trucks but this Honda seems like it would work pretty well for alot of folks and no it might not be a true body on frame "truck" but it has some really clever thinking in the design, great review overall!

Nice job. I'm curious if you've ever had the transmission overheat while towing. TFL Trucks had the overheating issue when offroading the Ridgeline in Colorado, but I think that is more extreme conditions that I would not attempt. I just want to be able to tow a medium size bass boat.

I really liked the way you approached your review of the Highlander...

Dang you would think with all the bells and whistles it would come with the brake control already on the truck. But it is a nice truck. Thanks for sharing.

What a great 'extras' review. Thanks guys!!

wow, that inner trunk open button impressed me

I agree it was the best review on the Honda Ridgeline..

2 things I'd change is air suspension in the back for leveling and a heavy duty hybrid system for epic fuel economy.

Just wanted to add in that people definitely should NOT get in the trunk and close the lid. The reason is because the when the trunk lid is closed, it forms (in theory) an air tight seal. This air tight seal is the reason why the trunk can be used as a cooler, because it won't let cold air out or hot air in. Although I doubt an adult would have any concern of this happening, I would hate for a child to think the trunk is a good "hide-and-seek" spot, not realizing the danger. Ridgelines are awesome vehicles with many cool features. Unless you are hauling heavy loads on a daily basis (which lets face it, most people aren't) it is a wonderful vehicle!

Love those trucks! Seriously considering one at the moment.

Get a screen protector film for the radio screen to keep the finger prints down.

Great review - you answered many questions I had in regards to towing. I’m wondering if you can put two lawn chairs in the back and watch a drive-in movie with the truck bed sound system - that might be fun!

you guys are great, always make it fun,and informative

I just bought a Tacoma a month ago. I really liked the Ridgeline, especially the in-bed storage and magic seats (I had them in my '09 F-150, I love that feature). However I the deal breaker was the steering weight of the Honda, it is too loose.

Well if you used it as a kidnapping vehicle a few sheets of plywood will defeat that "oh shit I'm locked in the trunk" button LOL

first off....your review is much better than those "expert reviews" great job....just honest, and clear. second, i'm having a hard time calling the ridge line a truck....when is based on th pilot, looks like a pilot, feels like a pilot, has the same power train of a pilot. i don't know, i would call it Utility wagon or something not related to a truck.

Congratulations on the new truck. Best of luck!

Still liking this, Tim? About to pick one up and wanted to get your long term perspective. Will be used to haul my BX around on occasion.

Hi, really like your review been thinking about having one of these on our drive way and you just made up my mind live in California so, will need the model with the sunroof. can't wait till September ...

This is a great review! You folks seem like very nice people. I️ think the people who feel so worked up over this being called a truck should stop and remember that there is more than one way to do things, and wise people have the sense to use the right tool for the job. That’s it-everything else is prepubescent name calling-and I’d like to believe that most of us grew out of that by age 16. There are many, many Ford, GMC, Chevy, Toyota, and Dodge pickups out there for sale right now, so if the Ridgeline doesn’t do it for you there are lots of other options.

BTW, How is the turning radius on the 2017? I can't turn into a lot of places, but will back into anywhere. Tacoma is like sitting on the floors with legs outstretched. Ridgeline you sit up. Love the fold UP rear seats and the trunk storage in the bed. Mine BTW is the base model.

good review, glad you showed off the trunk!

Johnee need to play now

Excellent video Tim.

I just bought a 2020 RTL-E and I love it. This was really a hard decision for me because of the lack of masculinity that this truck has but the features outweigh the looks hands down. If you are even remotely considering this truck go test drive it and make your decision based on that not on how masculine it looks. This car/truck is what most truck users will need for 95% of their time and use. Plus the drive is extremely comfortable.

We don't have that sort of Honda out in Australia and did not know Thay even built pickups