Buying a compact or midsize truck is excellent for many reasons. However, some buyers need something more capable of driving in the snow or off-roading in general. One expert put together a list of the best types of each vehicle for driving in snow. The answer is surprising to most buyers in the midsize truck segment because it’s not a Toyota, Ford, or Chevy model. The Honda Ridgeline is the best midsize truck for driving in snow.

Best midsize truck for driving in snow

iSeeCars says the best vehicles for driving in snow are ones that overcome the challenges of freezing weather. Icy roads, reduced visibility, and low tire pressure are just a few obstacles snow drivers face. The publication also says the best models for driving in snow have all the same attributes. For example, all- or four-wheel drive, anti-lock brakes, driver assist technology, ground clearance, heated mirrors, remote start, traction/stability control, and winter/snow tires are just a few of the best features a midsize truck, SUV, or car can have.

The one to best fit the bill in the midsize truck segment is the Honda Ridgeline. Overall, iSC gave the Ridgeline a 9.0 quality score out of 10 possible points. As one of the highest-rated models, it ranks well in almost every category. Moreover, its reliability score is a 9.6/10, an 8.4 for value retention, and finally, the Honda pickup earned a perfect score for safety. There are a few reasons it’s the best for driving in the snow. For example, it has standard all-wheel drive, a refined 3.5-liter V6 engine, stability control, traction control, and ABS for excellent winter handling. Additionally, the suite of safety features makes it perfect for driving in inclement weather. Lane-keeping assist, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and road departure mitigation are all standard.

Skip the Toyota, Ford, or Chevy

The most popular models in the midsize truck segment are from some of the most famous automakers. Furthermore, it’s surprising that the Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, and Chevy Colorado don’t get it done when driving in the snow. A few advantages give the Honda Ridgeline an edge over its competitors. First, standard all-wheel drive is only available for the Honda midsize truck. Alternatives almost all come with standard rear-wheel drive, and AWD is optional.

Next, off-roading and driving in winter weather require very similar features. The Ridgeline’s rivals each provide a capable off-road trim, which is much more costly than a base model from Honda. Additionally, other trims in competitor’s lineups don’t have access to traction control, stability control, or even a punchy V6 engine. Many midsize trucks now use a standard four-cylinder, with V6 options for higher trims.

How much is a Honda Ridgeline?

Being excellent for driving in snow is an outstanding advantage to have. However, how much will it cost to get yourself a new or used Honda Ridgeline? The best midsize truck for driving in snow starts at $23,990, with its highest trim coming in at just under $40,000. Alternatively, the three-year-old average used car price is $41,000, according to iSeeCars. If dealers maintain MSRP for new inventory, it’s often better to buy new than used in today’s automotive market.

The Honda Ridgeline is the best midsize truck for driving in snow

In conclusion, the best midsize truck for driving in snow is the Honda Ridgeline. The Ridgeline can be costly compared to other models in its class but provides many standard features others don’t. Without opting for an off-road trim, rivals won’t offer as many features for winter driving. Along with safety features, the Ridgeline has everything you’ll need to tackle driving in snow this winter.