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According to critics, the 2022 Honda Ridgeline is one of the top-ranked pickups. It’s a safe, capable, midsize truck with some innovative features. For most people, trucks from Toyota, Ford, or Chevy seem like better options due to their popularity. However, any version of the 2022 Honda Ridgeline is an excellent option. In fact, experts disagree on the best Honda Ridgeline trim. There are too many fantastic options to choose just one. Should you buy a Sport, RTL, RTL-E, or Black Edition?

Experts disagree on the best trim level for the 2022 Honda Ridgeline midsize truck.
The 2022 Honda Ridgeline midsize truck | Honda

According to Edmunds, the most popular version of the Ridgeline is the RTL-E trim. Starting a few thousand above the base Sport model at $45,365, it’s a well-equipped, luxurious model. As the most popular Ridgeline, it’s clear that consumers think it’s the best version of the vehicle. However, not every expert believes most customers purchase the best trim for the Honda midsize truck.

Experts disagree on the best trim level for the 2022 Honda Ridgeline midsize truck.
2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL-E | American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

Firstly, the experts at Edmunds recommend buying the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL-E. Two spots above the base model, it barely exceeds $45K. Edmunds likes it for the extra features not found in cheaper trim levels. For example, wireless smartphone charging, an upgraded stereo, truck bed audio, a heated steering wheel, and much more. In short, this critic agrees with the consumers that the most popular Honda Ridgeline is also the best.

In addition to the ample additional RTL-E features, it’s worth noting that every Ridgeline comes with the same engine under the hood. As a result, choosing between trims comes down to strictly features and convenience items. Each one is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 making 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive is also standard, along with the Honda Sensing safety suite. Moreover, the suite contains adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and forward collision mitigation.

Car and Driver’s best Ridgeline trim

Although one expert agrees with consumers, another popular publication doesn’t. Car and Driver recommend buying the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL trim level. One below the most popular and Edmunds choice, it’s also a few thousand dollars cheaper. Starting at $42,415, the Ridgeline RTL adds a sunroof, leather steering wheel, driver’s seat memory, blind-spot monitoring, leather upholstery, and more to the base Sport model.

C/D claims it’s the trim level to buy because it “has the best mix of desirable equipment and value.” While the RTL-E is an excellent choice, the RTL adds the most important features without breaking the bank. Remaining below $43,000 instead of exceeding $45,000 is a big deal. With features like leather, heated seats, satellite radio, and more entering the lineup with the RTL trim, C/D doesn’t recommend overpaying for the Ridgeline RTL-E.

What is the best 2022 Honda Ridgeline trim?

Regarding the 2022 Honda Ridgeline, we agree with Car and Driver. Although the base model is enticing, the Ridgeline excels as a luxury midsize truck. Since every version has a high-quality ride, quiet interior, and premium features, the best version contains more for the money. With the most popular RTL-E model, owners get a lot, but there are many features we can do without. Instead, save a bunch of money and get a more affordable trim level. In conclusion, the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL is the best trim available, giving owners the most desirable equipment for the money.

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Section Editor - SUVs

Tim Harding

Having spent half a decade managing the reconditioning and marketing processes for upwards of 400 vehicles monthly, Tim is no stranger to the automotive industry. He has a deep understanding of the many different types of vehicles on the road today and brings to the table valuable insight into the industry itself.

Tim earned an Associate’s in English and a Bachelor’s in Business Administration with a Marketing specialization from Ashford University. Tim joined MotorBiscuit as an Autos Writer in 2021, and his work can also be seen at Gamepur, Overtime Heroics, and Pro Game Guides.

Tim is most inspired by the constantly changing automotive industry. He looks forward to a future when cars, particularly electric vehicles, look and operate completely differently than they do today. Tim’s content draws on this inspiration while also providing MotorBiscuit readers with useful consumer advice.