Honda's unveiling of the Ridgeline at the
Detroit Show sees a very significant new entrant into the huge US truck market. The Ridgeline is tasked with taking a big chunk of the market that is the traditional stronghold of the American 'Big Three'. As we've come to expect from Honda, the Ridgeline features cutting-edge technologies and innovative features wrapped in a suitably robust and rugged-looking shell.
Powered by a meaty 255bhp 3.5-litre V6 driving through a five-speed auto' and an advanced four-wheel drive system, the Ridgeline offers serious load lugging ability. The independent suspension should give excellent ride and handling characteristics compared to most existing trucks. To ensure occupant safety the Ridgeline is also fitted with vehicle safety systems normally found on regular passenger cars such as stability and traction control, and side and curtain airbags.
One of the most innovative features of the Ridgeline is the in-bed luggage space that allows loads to be stowed and locked below the bed surface. This space has enough room for three golf bags and the inclusion of a drain hole means any spillages from a cool box are easily dealt with. Another practical touch comes in the form of the tailgate, which either drops or hinges, offering excellent access to the large load bed.
The Ridgeline goes on sale in March of this year at around $27,000-32,000 in the US (only £14,000 - £17,000!), but don't expect it to hit British roads in the near future, as there are no plans to import the Ridgeline. Honda aims to establish itself in the sales charts of the truck market that is projected to grow to an astonishing 60% of total US vehicle sales in the next 5 years. Existing market contenders will be looking at the Ridgeline very nervously, as Honda has an uncanny habit of nailing any new product line it attempts.
Dave Jenkins - 26 Jan 2005