2008 Honda Ridgeline
Based on analysis of 51 Ridgeline reviews and test drives.
Honda Ridgeline - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Honda Ridgeline ranks 1 out of 5 Sport Utility Trucks. This ranking is based on our analysis of 51 published reviews and test drives of the Honda Ridgeline, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Ridgeline delivers superior handling and unique cargo possibilities, in addition to holding up Honda's solid reputation for reliability and value. However, it only offers a V6 engine, and some reviewers have complained of rear visibility issues.
With its car-like handling, spacious five-passenger cabin and Honda nameplate, the 2008 Honda Ridgeline is a good choice for people who need some of the capabilities of a truck, but aren't ready to commit to a big rig. To many, the 2008 Ridgeline represents innovation for including unique utility features that other pickups do not. Features like an in-bed trunk and a dual-action tailgate lead set it apart from most trucks. However, its car-based construction and lack of four wheel drive (the Ridgeline has all-wheel drive) means that it isn't as strong for towing and off-roading as a conventional truck is. Price is also a downside: though the Ridgeline comes fully loaded, it does not come cheap.
- "The Ridgeline is unapologetically aimed not at mythical blue-collar Bubbas, but at the middle-class people who actually buy many of the pickups sold today: white-collar professionals in green suburbs, in blue states as well as red ones." -- The New York Times
- "For most of us, it's all the truck we need." -- BusinessWeek
- "Of vehicles in its size class, we can't think of any others that deliver a more comprehensive menu of all-around utility attributes." -- Car and Driver
- "There are expensive models of all pickups, but there are only expensive Ridgelines." -- The Orlando Sentinel
Ridgeline Performance - 7.9 (Good)
Although the 2008 Honda Ridgeline does not have the performance capabilities and capacities of traditional trucks, writers say it's sufficient. USA TODAY states, "Honda has melded sporty-car driving with weekend-warrior toting, creating what's likely to be the perfect blend for many people." To find out where the Ridgeline excels and where it falls short compared to traditional trucks, read our full performance review. continue
Ridgeline Exterior - 6.4 (Mediocre)
Opinions of the 2008 Honda Ridgeline's exterior are split. Reviewers like the Detroit News writer hate it -- "the Ridgeline reminds me of the old Rodney Dangerfield joke about how he was so ugly as a kid his parents had to tie a pork chop bone around his neck so the dog would play with him." In contrast, the Los Angeles Times finds the Ridgeline "sleek, sophisticated ... the thing looks like a Heckler & Koch assault rifle." Continue with the Ridgeline's exterior review to see how the debate plays out. To decide for yourself, check out our Honda Ridgeline photo gallery. continue
Ridgeline Interior - 7.6 (Good)
The 2008 Honda Ridgeline is appreciated for providing a spacious five-seat cabin with good storage possibilities. As Kelley Blue Book states, the Ridgeline has "a great set of front bucket seats and a unique storage compartment below the bed that's perfect for hiding valuables." But many are disappointed with seat comfort and material quality. To find out what reviewers think the shortcomings are, read the full interior review. You can also check out our Honda Ridgeline interior pictures. continue
Ridgeline Safety - 9.8 (Excellent)
The 2008 Honda Ridgeline does very well in federal government crash tests. Reviewers like the Detroit News "can't think of anything they didn't put on the Ridgeline in terms of safety features," but are equally concerned with the truck's poor over-the-shoulder visibility. continue
Ridgeline Reliability - 8.0 (Very Good)
The 2008 Honda Ridgeline reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Honda Ridgeline is covered by a three-year or 36,000-mile basic warranty. continue
