The Ridgeline uses a 6-speed automatic transmission, paired with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, and is offered with either front-wheel drive or Honda’s i-VTM4 all-wheel-drive system.
In practical terms, the 2017 model year offers two drivetrain configurations that determine how the transmission behaves: standard front-wheel drive with the 6-speed automatic, or all-wheel drive with i-VTM4 that can send torque to the rear wheels as conditions demand. The transmission itself is an automatic design with a manual shift mode for driver control, and there is no manual transmission option for this year.
Drivetrain options and how they pair with the transmission
The Ridgeline can be ordered with front-wheel drive or Honda's i-VTM4 all-wheel-drive system. In both cases, the transmission remains a 6-speed automatic, balancing smooth everyday driving with capability when towing or venturing onto less-than-perfect surfaces.
- Six-speed automatic transmission (no manual option)
- Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) is standard with the 6-speed automatic
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with i-VTM4 is available, providing on-demand rear torque
- Manual shift mode is available within the automatic transmission for greater driver control
In short, the 2017 Ridgeline’s transmission is a 6-speed automatic paired with either FWD or i-VTM4 AWD, with no manual transmission option.
Summary
The 2017 Honda Ridgeline relies on a 6-speed automatic transmission matched to a 3.5L V6 engine. It offers standard front-wheel drive or an available i-VTM4 all-wheel-drive system, and it does not offer a manual transmission. This setup emphasizes smooth everyday performance with capable traction when needed for towing or light off-road duties.