Overview
The 2025 Honda Ridgeline arrives in India as a midsize pickup that feels more like a car than a traditional work truck. Built on a unibody platform, it blends the smooth, compliant ride of a family sedan with the practicality of a bed that can carry tools, luggage or weekend gear. Positioned between the ₹35 lakh and ₹50 lakh price band (ex‑showroom, based on the global MSRP of US $40,150–$48,730), the Ridgeline aims at small‑business owners, adventure‑seeking families and fleet operators who need a capable hauler without the bulk of a full‑size pickup.
Exterior Design
The 2025 model retains the distinctive Honda styling first introduced on the third‑generation Ridgeline. A wide, sculpted grille dominates the front fascia, while sleek LED headlamps and daytime running lights give the truck a modern, upscale feel. The body is finished in a high‑strength steel and aluminum blend that keeps curb weight down without sacrificing rigidity.
Overall dimensions place the Ridgeline squarely in the midsize segment: 5,410 mm in length, 1,930 mm in width and 1,790 mm in height, with a 3,190 mm wheelbase that contributes to stable cornering. Ground clearance measures 210 mm, enough to negotiate Indian city potholes and modest off‑road trails. Standard 18‑inch alloy wheels are fitted with all‑season tubeless tires, and the composite bed sports a clean, aerodynamic silhouette. Paint options include Crystal Black Pearl, Lunar Silver Metallic, Radiant Red and a subtle Pearl White, while trim levels range from the entry‑level Sport to the adventure‑focused TrailSport.
Interior and Cabin Comfort
Inside, the Ridgeline feels spacious and well appointed. The base model offers cloth‑trimmed seats, a 9‑inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a 7‑inch digital instrument cluster that presents speed, fuel level and towing data at a glance. Steering‑wheel controls let the driver manage audio and navigation without taking hands off the wheel.
Higher‑spec RTL and TrailSport trims upgrade the infotainment screen to 10.2 inches, add a premium leather‑wrapped steering wheel, and provide heated front seats. The cabin offers generous headroom and legroom for both rows, making it comfortable for long highway journeys or daily city commutes. Cargo space is ample, and the in‑bed lockable trunk—unique to the Ridgeline—adds 150 liters of secure storage that can be accessed from the cab.
Powertrain and Performance
Power comes from a 3.5‑liter V6 engine that delivers 280 hp at 6,000 rpm and 262 lb‑ft of torque at 4,700 rpm. The engine is paired with a nine‑speed automatic transmission and Honda’s Intelligent Variable Torque Management (i‑VTM4) all‑wheel‑drive system.
In real‑world driving, the V6 feels smooth and responsive, especially when pulling a trailer or a fully loaded bed. The truck is rated to tow up to 2,268 kg (5,000 lb) and can handle a payload of roughly 680 kg. Acceleration from 0–100 km/h is measured at around 7.2 seconds, while the top speed is limited to 180 km/h. Fuel consumption is quoted at 7.6 km/l city and 10.2 km/l highway, though mixed‑use on Indian roads typically results in 6–8 km/l.
Technology and Connectivity
Honda equips the Ridgeline with a suite of connectivity features that suit both work and leisure. The 9‑inch touchscreen supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing navigation, music and messaging without a cable. USB‑C ports are positioned in the front console, and wireless charging pads are standard on RTL‑level variants.
A rear‑view camera with dynamic guidelines assists with bed loading, while the upper trims add a 360‑degree surround‑view system. The power‑tailgate can be opened with a foot‑sensor or via the remote key fob, and a set of programmable interior ambient lights adds a touch of personalization.
Safety Systems
The Ridgeline carries Honda Sensing as standard across all trims. The package includes adaptive cruise control, lane‑keeping assist, forward‑collision warning with automatic emergency braking, and blind‑spot monitoring. The vehicle is equipped with a total of seven airbags, anti‑lock braking system with electronic brake‑force distribution, vehicle stability assist and hill‑start assist. Independent front and rear suspension designs help maintain composure on uneven surfaces, contributing to a five‑star crash rating in global safety assessments.
Fuel Economy and Running Costs
A 73‑liter fuel tank gives the Ridgeline a theoretical range of 450–550 km on a full tank, which translates to roughly one to two days of mixed urban and highway driving for most owners. Refuelling takes about 2–3 minutes at a standard pump. In Indian conditions, owners can expect fuel costs of roughly ₹10–12 per kilometre, while routine maintenance is projected at ₹10,000–₹15,000 per year. The unibody construction helps keep cabin noise low, making long trips comfortable for both driver and passengers.
Pricing, Availability and Ownership
Pricing is expected to start at about ₹35 lakh for the Sport trim and climb to ₹50 lakh for the fully‑loaded TrailSport. On‑road costs in Delhi, which include registration (₹3–5 lakh) and insurance (₹0.5–1 lakh), push the total to roughly ₹40–58 lakh. Honda plans a global launch in early 2025, with Indian imports slated for mid‑2025. Initial promotions may offer discounts of up to ₹1 lakh, and a three‑year unlimited‑kilometre warranty backs the vehicle. Lead times for delivery are estimated at two to four months after booking.
Ownership Experience and Common Feedback
Early owners appreciate the car‑like ride, the convenience of the lockable in‑bed trunk and the comprehensive safety suite. The 210 mm ground clearance proves adequate for most Indian city streets and occasional weekend off‑road excursions. Critics point out that the bed is shorter than those of some rivals, the V6 fuel consumption can feel high in stop‑and‑go traffic, and the lack of a diesel option may deter traditional pickup buyers. Additionally, import duties increase the final price compared with locally produced competitors.
Competitor Comparison
Within the ₹35–50 lakh midsize pickup bracket, the Ridgeline competes primarily with the Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger and Chevrolet Colorado. Against the Tacoma, the Ridgeline wins on ride comfort and interior ergonomics, but falls short on maximum towing capacity. Compared with the Ranger, the Ridgeline’s V6 feels smoother, yet the Ranger still offers a larger payload and a diesel powerplant. The Colorado matches the Ridgeline in utility, though Honda’s resale value and brand perception often give it an edge in the long term.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does the Ridgeline come with a diesel engine option?
No. The 2025 Ridgeline is powered exclusively by a 3.5‑liter gasoline V6 paired with a nine‑speed automatic transmission.
2. What is the warranty coverage for the Indian market?
Honda offers a three‑year unlimited‑kilometre warranty, which includes powertrain, battery and basic components. Extended warranty packages are also available through dealers.
3. How does the in‑bed trunk differ from a standard pickup box?
The lockable trunk is a sealed, weather‑proof compartment built into the rear of the bed. It provides 150 liters of secure storage and can be accessed from the cab without opening the entire tailgate.
4. Is the Ridgeline suitable for long‑term fleet use?
Yes. Its low cabin noise, comfortable ride, and robust safety features make it a viable option for fleet operators who value driver comfort and vehicle reliability.
5. What are the financing options available at launch?
Honda Financial Services is expected to offer conventional auto loans, zero‑down lease programs and balloon‑payment schemes. Specific terms will vary by bank and dealer.
Disclaimer
The information presented here is based on publicly available data and estimates. Prices, specifications and availability are subject to change without notice. Prospective buyers should verify details with an authorized Honda dealership before making any purchase decisions.
