In brief, the 2008 Honda Ridgeline uses a 3.5-liter V6 engine from Honda’s J-series, featuring i-VTEC with a dual overhead cam design. It’s paired with a five-speed automatic transmission and is available with Real-Time AWD on many trims.
Engine type and design
The Ridgeline’s heart is a 3.5-liter V6 that Honda uses across its crossover and pickup lineup. This engine family, part of the J-series, combines reliable V6 performance with modern variable valve timing to balance power and efficiency.
Key characteristics of this engine configuration include:
- Displacement: 3.5 liters (3471 cc)
- Configuration: V6
- Valvetrain: Dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) with i-VTEC
- Fuel delivery: Multi-point fuel injection
- Emission and efficiency features: Variable valve timing for improved low-end torque and fuel economy
Note that horsepower and torque figures vary slightly by model year and emission specifications, but are generally in the mid- to high-200s for horsepower and around 240–250 lb-ft of torque.
Performance and drivetrain
In the 2008 Ridgeline, the 3.5-liter V6 is paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. The system is capable of driving the rear wheels or an all-wheel-drive setup depending on trim, with Real-Time AWD delivering power to the rear wheels when needed for traction. The engine’s design emphasizes a smooth, linear power curve suitable for highway cruising and light towing tasks.
Maintenance and longevity
Honda’s J-series V6 engines are known for durability when properly maintained. Routine changes for the engine oil, coolant, and timing components per Honda’s schedule help sustain reliability. If the vehicle has higher mileage, be attentive to typical wear items on the VTEC system or exhaust and follow the manufacturer’s service guidance as needed.
Summary
The 2008 Honda Ridgeline uses a 3.5-liter V6 i-VTEC engine from Honda’s J-series, delivering a balance of performance and efficiency for a mid-size pickup. Paired with a five-speed automatic transmission and available all-wheel drive, this engine provides dependable daily driving with capable towing and load-tuning capability.