Plot Twist: The 2024 Honda Ridgeline TrailSport Falls Short
We have been waiting for the Honda Ridgeline to get some rugged upgrades, and technically, the 2024 model just did. However, it still has work to do if it wants to catch up with rivals. Check out where the 2024 Honda Ridgeline TrailSport hits and misses.
What comes with the 2024 Honda Ridgeline TrailSport?
The 2024 Honda Ridgeline TrailSport features all-terrain tires, off-road suspension tuning, and steel underbody protection.
These updates fall short compared to the Honda Pilot TrailSport, which has actual skidplates, a suspension lift, new off-road modes, a new suspension setup, recovery points, improved braking, a new steering column, and advanced off-roading tech.
The Ridgeline TrailSport rides on five-spoke 18-inch wheels wrapped in General Grabber A/T Sport tires 245/60R18. While traction is improved, the ground clearance remains at 7.9 inches. It is the shortest TrailSport model, and the Pilot TrailSport has an 8.3-inch ground clearance.
Off-road suspension tuning includes enhanced spring rates, valve dampening, and stabilizer bars. The Pilot TrailSport has a new, fully independent suspension with hydraulic bushings, steel control arms, and aluminum knuckles.
While the i-VTM4 torque-vectoring all-wheel drive system automatically sends 70% of the engine’s torque to the rear wheels and can apportion 100% of the torque to either wheel.
Torque is sent to the wheel in need based on different driving situations and hs terrain modes for snow, mud, sand, and pavement. The Pilot Ridgeline has a new Trail mode.
A unique shade of Sky Blue helps it match other TrailSport models. The Pweter Grey skirt, black grille, black roof bars, bold RIDGELINE lettering, orange badging, and orange exterior/interior accents.
Does the Ridgeline TrailSport have off-roading tech?
The 2024 Honda Ridgeline TrailSport does feature new tech, but still falls short. The standard 7.0-inch guage cluster displays a physical speedometer and digital tachometer. The mirrors are power-folding to avoid getting snagged on trails.
It’s paired with a 9.0-inch infotainment system, and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto is standard, along with built-in navigation. But the Pilot TrailSport has an off-road trail camera with multiple views to help you navigate around obstacles.
While the Ridgeline has controlled braking and hill start assist, the Pilot Ridgeline has hill descent control and improved Honda sensing. The hill descent control is active at speeds under 12 mpg and provides more control at slippery inclines at 7.0% or more.
But the Honda Ridgeline TrailSport interior is attractive with orange accent stitching, ambient lighting, embroidered TrailSport logos, and rubberized all-season floor mats.
It can tow up to 5,000 lbs and carry a payload of 1,583 lbs. The glass fiber-reinforced composite bed is extremely durable. Plus, the extra-wide bed can hold four-foot-wide items between the wheel wells.
The lockable in-bed trunk provides an extra 7.3 cubic feet of cargo space. It’s washable and can be used as a cooler. It pairs great with the available tailgate Bluetooth speaker.
How much does the Ridgeline TrailSport cost?
Pricing for the 2024 Honda Ridgeline TrailSport could start around $45,000. The 2023 Ridgeline Black Edition starts at $46,230, and it’s unclear if the new TrailSport trim will be priced above it. Prices may also increase from the 2023 model year.
The Ridgeline TrailSport is expected to arrive at dealerships early next year. New Honda models will go on sale in December 2023.
While the Honda Ridgeline TrailSport does feature rugged upgrades to improve its capabilities, we thought it would get a little more muscle.
However, other TrailSport models, like the Pilot, started on the softer side until it was time for the vehicle to be redesigned. So, a more aggressive Ridgeline TrailSport could be in the works. Until then, do you think the Ridgeline TrailSport is enough?
