The Honda Ridgeline is a unibody pickup designed for on-road comfort and light-duty hauling. Its propulsion comes from a modern V6 paired with a multi‑speed automatic transmission and available all‑wheel drive, balancing everyday usability with capable performance.
The Ridgeline is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers about 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 9‑speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, with Honda’s i‑VTM4 all‑wheel-drive system available for enhanced traction in varied conditions.
Engine specifications
Key technical details about the Ridgeline’s powerplant and how it is put to work are listed below.
- Displacement: 3.5 liters
- Configuration: V6
- Valvetrain: i‑VTEC (variable valve timing) to optimize performance and efficiency
- Power: ≈280 horsepower
- Torque: ≈262 lb-ft
- Transmission: 9‑speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front‑wheel drive standard; all‑wheel drive available with i‑VTM4
In summary, the Ridgeline’s engine lineup centers on a capable 3.5-liter V6 paired with a nine-speed automatic and Honda’s i‑VTM4 all‑wheel-drive technology when AWD is chosen.
Drivetrain options and how they affect performance
The engine is paired with a nine‑speed automatic transmission that smooths shifts for daily driving and improves highway efficiency. While front‑wheel drive is the baseline setup, the available i‑VTM4 AWD system provides torque to each wheel as needed, helping the Ridgeline handle slick roads and light off‑road conditions without compromising on-road comfort.
What this means for drivers
For most buyers, this engine and drivetrain pairing offers a balance between comfortable highway cruising, ample mid‑range power for passing and hauling light loads, and predictable handling. It is designed to support the Ridgeline’s dual role as a family vehicle and a light‑duty work truck.
Summary
Bottom line: The Honda Ridgeline is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 producing around 280 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9‑speed automatic. Front‑wheel drive is standard, with i‑VTM4 all‑wheel drive available for enhanced traction. This combination underpins the Ridgeline’s blend of comfort, versatility, and capability.
Is the Honda Ridgeline a V-6 or V8?
The Ridgeline features a powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine capable of producing up to 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a smooth 9-speed automatic transmission and standard i-VTM4® all-wheel drive.
Why are Honda Ridgelines not selling?
Pace. Number seven off-road. Performance reality. Check. The truth about the Ridgeline's. Off-road capability is becoming impossible to ignore.
Is the Honda Ridgeline 3.5 a good engine?
With regular maintenance, the Ridgeline often surpasses 200,000 miles, a testament to Honda's renowned engineering. Its 3.5L V6 engine balances power and efficiency, requiring minimal major repairs over its lifespan.
What are the negatives of the Honda Ridgeline?
After a redesign, the Honda Ridgeline had transmission issues and troublesome brakes. Power system failures and fuel system concerns are also widely reported. The infotainment system was also a problem as the touchscreen is prone to giving out.