The 2023 Honda Ridgeline can tow up to 5,000 pounds and support up to 500 pounds of hitch/tongue weight when equipped with the proper Tow Package.
Understanding hitch rating helps you plan what you can safely tow, how to load a trailer, and which equipment is required. This article explains the official numbers, what they mean in practice, and how to tow responsibly with the Ridgeline.
Key numbers for the Ridgeline 2023
The Ridgeline’s maximum towing capacity is 5,000 pounds when it is properly equipped with Honda’s Tow Package. The maximum tongue weight (the downward force on the hitch) is rated at 500 pounds. These figures are listed by Honda as the upper limits for trailers and loads when the vehicle is configured with the Tow Package.
Clarifying how the numbers work
Towing capacity refers to the total weight of the trailer you can pull, while tongue weight is the portion of that load that sits on the hitch itself. Both ratings assume the Ridgeline is loaded within its other limits (payload, GVWR, and GCWR) and is using appropriate hitch hardware and trailer brakes where required.
Equipment and configuration matters
To achieve the 5,000-pound towing rating, you typically need Honda's Tow Package, which includes the proper hitch setup and wiring harness. If the Tow Package isn’t installed, or if you’re using a non-standard hitch, the towing capacity can be lower. Always verify the exact figures for your specific build with a dealer or the owner’s manual, as options and regional kits can affect the rated capacity.
Practical towing guidance for Ridgeline owners
Plan trailer loads with weight distribution in mind, keep tongue weight within the 500-pound limit, and ensure the trailer has functioning brakes when towing near the upper end of the rating. Be mindful of highway conditions, braking distance, and turning radii, and consult the manual for any trailer-related requirements or cautions specific to the 2023 Ridgeline.
Summary
In short, the 2023 Honda Ridgeline can tow up to 5,000 pounds with a maximum tongue weight of 500 pounds when equipped with Honda’s Tow Package. Always confirm your exact configuration with the dealer and adhere to the vehicle’s published limits to tow safely.