You need to check out the 2022 Honda Ridgeline Type R. This new high-performance model of the Honda Ridgeline transforms this truck into a more capable beast with a more aggressive look and higher quality materials. 

The 2022 Honda Ridgeline Type R is coming 

According to Pickup Truck News, the 2022 Honda Ridgeline Type R is in the works. The Ridgeline is one of the most dependable options in the market, so it’s time to catch up to rivals that offer high-performance variants such as the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro and Jeep Gladiator Rubicon. 

The Ridgeline Type R is expected to have a more bold and aggressive appearance to attract drivers to its sportier attitude. It will need a sharper appearance to match its added muscle and to stand out against other trim levels. 

It’s safe to expect a unique blacked-out grille design with LED headlights and a more aggressive front bumper to highlight the front fascia. This will be paired with broader air vents and large air intakes. 

But remember, the R in Honda Type R stands for racing. So instead of being lifted for off-roading, the Ridgeline Type R could be lowered. It’s expected to ride on sporty 19-inch wheels. 

How much power will the Ridgeline Type R have? 

You can’t upgrade a truck for racing without increasing engine power. That’s why the 2022 Honda Ridgeline Type R could gain more power. Rumors suggest that it will use the same 3.5-liter V6 engine that it currently has, only it will be retuned. 

This engine provides 280-hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. The exact numbers haven’t been released, but it could pump out 400 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque. According to Edmunds, the 2021 Honda Ridgeline can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds. This is fast for a midsize truck but a little lacking for a racer. 

This increased amount of power could help the Ridgeline tow more than 5,000 lbs too. All-wheel-drive could come standard, but it wouldn’t be surprising to see a rear-wheel-drive variant for a sportier performance. Also, the VTEX system and direct-injection fuel system will be available. 

How much does the Honda Ridgeline Type R cost? 

We’re still waiting to learn more, but the 2022 Honda Ridgeline Type R is expected to begin at about $50,000. This would make the Type R more expensive than the Black Edition Honda Ridgeline, which is currently the top trim level. 

But the interior and exterior upgrades will be worth it. A sporty steering wheel, leather seats, Type R badging, and contrast stitching will make things pop. The layout will remain close to its current setup but could include more advanced and driver-focused tech. 

The additional standard features could include a bigger tachometer. Plus, a clutch pedal and a new gearbox could be available. This makes us wonder if a manual transmission is in the works. At the least, paddle shifters are expected. 

The new Ridgeline Type R is expected to be available at the beginning of 2022, so we could learn more by the end of the summer. This truck already has one of the smoothest and sportier rides available, so the racing additions will really take things up a gear.