First Look at the Next-Gen Honda Ridgeline: It Resembles a Truck Much More.

      Honda

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      The Honda Ridgeline may be the most criticized truck on the internet, but that doesn't mean it's a poor pickup. If anything, it simply feels outdated, as the current generation has been in existence for a decade. Honda recognizes this, which is why they announced on Thursday that a newer, more robust model is expected to arrive "within two years." And it appears to have a notably boxy shape.

      Although you'll need to be patient for a bit longer, I have a feeling it'll be worth the wait. The new Ridgeline is being designed at Honda’s styling studio in Southern California, and judging by the dim teaser image I enhanced in Photoshop, it will definitely have a more truck-like appearance compared to the current version. It boasts a prominent jawline with a front bumper that stands mostly upright; it has a higher stance with tall all-terrain tires; and the design team opted not to smooth out the bed break line, though it will likely maintain its unibody construction.

      In addition to styling the truck in Southern California, Honda is also engineering it in Ohio. Year after year, the Ridgeline ranks as one of the most American-made vehicles—a trend that seems poised to continue. While Honda is currently keeping quiet about powertrain specifics, it’s reasonable to expect it will utilize the new Passport's 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6, potentially with hybrid assistance.

      I wouldn't be surprised if the Ridgeline incorporates even more elements from the Passport. Why wouldn’t it? Honda has done an excellent job with the new SUV, in my view and that of many who’ve driven it extensively. Furthermore, the existing Ridgeline already shares the platform of the previous-generation Passport, and the new model will continue to be produced at the Honda Alabama Auto Plant.

      Honda has confirmed that Ridgeline production will halt later this year to prepare for the new model. This coincides with an earlier report stating that the midsize pickup would be unavailable for 18 months. When it returns, it will be fascinating to see how much Honda caters to modern truck enthusiasts. There must be a suitable middle ground, and I hope Honda can discover it.

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