Unveiling the best midsize pickup of the year: ridgeline vs tacoma

When it comes to reliable and capable midsize pickup trucks, the used Honda Ridgeline and Toyota Tacoma stand out as two formidable options. With their distinct features and strengths, choosing between these two vehicles can be a daunting task. This comprehensive comparison aims to provide you with a detailed analysis of the used Honda Ridgeline vs Toyota Tacoma, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your needs and preferences.

Body and Design

Honda Ridgeline: The Ridgeline boasts a unibody construction, offering a smoother and more car-like ride compared to its body-on-frame rivals. Its sleek and modern exterior features a dual-action tailgate that swings open like a traditional tailgate or folds down like a truck bed.

Toyota Tacoma: The Tacoma, on the other hand, employs a traditional body-on-frame design, resulting in a more rugged and off-road-oriented experience. Its boxy and aggressive styling exudes a sense of power and durability.

Engine and Performance

Honda Ridgeline: The Ridgeline is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with a six-speed automatic transmission and offers a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds.

Toyota Tacoma: The Tacoma offers a range of engine options, including a 2.7-liter four-cylinder, a 3.5-liter V6, and a 3.5-liter V6 with a supercharger. The V6 engines produce 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque (296 hp and 260 lb-ft for the supercharged version). The Tacoma’s towing capacity ranges from 3,500 pounds to 6,800 pounds.

Interior and Features

Honda Ridgeline: The Ridgeline’s interior is spacious and well-equipped, with comfortable seats and a user-friendly infotainment system. It offers features such as dual-zone climate control, a sunroof, and a rear-seat entertainment system.

Toyota Tacoma: The Tacoma’s interior is less refined than the Ridgeline’s, but it still provides ample space and practicality. It comes standard with features like air conditioning, a touchscreen display, and Bluetooth connectivity.

Off-Road Capabilities

Honda Ridgeline: Despite its unibody construction, the Ridgeline offers surprisingly good off-road capabilities. It features a torque-vectoring system that distributes power to the wheels with the most traction, along with a ground clearance of 8.5 inches.

Toyota Tacoma: The Tacoma is a renowned off-roader, with a proven track record in extreme terrain. It offers a variety of off-road features, including a locking rear differential, a crawl control system, and a Multi-Terrain Select system.

Reliability and Resale Value

Honda Ridgeline: Honda vehicles are known for their exceptional reliability, and the Ridgeline is no exception. It consistently ranks highly in reliability surveys and holds its value well over time.

Toyota Tacoma: Toyota vehicles are also highly reliable, and the Tacoma is no different. It has a reputation for being durable and dependable, with a strong resale value.

Fuel Economy

Honda Ridgeline: The Ridgeline’s unibody construction and efficient engine contribute to its impressive fuel economy. It achieves an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

Toyota Tacoma: The Tacoma’s body-on-frame design and powerful engines impact its fuel economy. It offers an EPA-estimated 18 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.

Pricing and Availability

Honda Ridgeline: Used Honda Ridgelines typically range in price from $15,000 to $35,000, depending on the year, mileage, and trim level. They are readily available in the used car market.

Toyota Tacoma: Used Toyota Tacomas are slightly more expensive than Ridgelines, with prices ranging from $20,000 to $40,000. They are also widely available in the used car market.

Key Points: Choosing the Right Truck for You

Choosing between the used Honda Ridgeline and Toyota Tacoma ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize comfort, fuel economy, and a smooth ride, the Ridgeline is an excellent option. However, if you require a rugged and capable off-roader with a proven track record, the Tacoma is the clear choice. Both vehicles offer reliability, resale value, and ample features, making them outstanding choices in the midsize pickup truck segment.

FAQ

Q: Which truck has a better towing capacity?
A: The Toyota Tacoma offers a higher towing capacity than the Honda Ridgeline, with a maximum capacity of 6,800 pounds compared to 5,000 pounds.

Q: Is the Honda Ridgeline more comfortable than the Toyota Tacoma?
A: Yes, the Ridgeline’s unibody construction and comfortable interior make it more suitable for daily driving and long journeys.

Q: Which truck is more reliable?
A: Both the Honda Ridgeline and Toyota Tacoma are highly reliable vehicles, with the Ridgeline slightly edging out the Tacoma in recent reliability surveys.

Q: Is the Toyota Tacoma better off-road?
A: Yes, the Tacoma’s body-on-frame design, locking rear differential, and Multi-Terrain Select system give it an advantage in off-road situations.

Q: Which truck has a lower price point?
A: The Honda Ridgeline typically has a lower price point than the Toyota Tacoma, especially in the used car market.