Is the Honda Ridgeline More Reliable Than the Toyota Tacoma?
We might have an interesting victory to report for the Honda Ridgeline. Studies suggest that it could be more reliable than the Toyota Tacoma. But how can that be? The Toyota Tacoma has a reputation for durability, so let’s see what the Honda Ridgeline offers.
Is the Honda Ridgeline more reliable than the Toyota Tacoma?
Determining if the Honda Ridgeline is more reliable than the Toyota Tacoma isn’t exactly clear-cut. Both trucks have above-average reliability scores to consider. For example, J.D.Power gave the Ridgeline a score of 80 out of 100, while the Tacoma earned 83 out of 100.
Scores between 91 and 100 are the best, while rankings between 81 and 90 are still great. Scores between 70 to 80 are good. So, both trucks are expected to be slightly more reliable than the average new car.
However, according to iSeeCars, more Ridgeline models are likely to surpass 200,000 miles. The Ridgeline makes up 3.7 percent of the vehicles with over 200,000 miles, and the Tacoma accounts for 2.8 percent.
Both trucks are expected to reach 200,000 miles and can easily reach 300,000 miles with proper care and maintenance. But you hear about the Tacoma’s longevity and passing 400,000 miles more frequently.
But the Tacoma has been around for decades, allowing it to accrue more mileage. The Tacoma was introduced in 1995, and the Ridgeline came out in 2006. It was discontinued in 2014 and returned in 2017.
Is the Ridgeline more comfortable than the Tacoma?
Yes, the Honda Ridgeline is more comfortable than the Toyota Tacoma. It has a smoother ride quality over the pavement, a quieter interior, and more interior space to enjoy. Both trucks are designed to fill different needs, which may impact reliability scores.
The Ridgeline has a unibody frame with all-wheel drive. As a result, it has less suspension travel and off-roading capabilities. It has a lower ground clearance too. But this leads to more responsive handling.
The Tacoma has a traditional body-on-frame build and four-wheel drive. It’s a bit stiffer and bumpier with more wind and road noise. But it can take a beating and is extremely capable of off-roading adventures.
If drivers stick to the pavement with the Ridgeline, then it may experience less wear and tear. The Tacoma is probably put in riskier off-roading situations. Plus, it’s easier and more affordable to repair unibody trucks.
Is the Ridgeline more affordable to maintain?
It costs about $502 to maintain the Honda Ridgeline annually, while the Toyota Tacoma has a $442 early maintenance cost. But trucks are cheaper to care for compared to the average annual cost of about $650 for other vehicles.
You might be able to find cheaper replacement parts for the Tacoma thanks to a broad aftermarket network. Longevity for these trucks could come down to individual models and how well they are taken care of.
The Tacoma has a more durable design, but it probably is subject to more abuse. You can hit massive bumps on the trails and just keep going. The Ridgeline can go off-roading but can’t keep up with the Tacoma.
If the Ridgeline was used in the wild like the Tacoma it might not last as long. But it does seem to be the more reliable option.
