The Toyota Tacoma and Honda Ridgeline Have 1 Weird Similarity
We must sound insane because the Toyota Tacoma and Honda Ridgeline are completely different trucks. One is rough and tumble for off-roading, and the other provides the comfort of a sport SUV. However, the 2023 Toyota Tacoma and 2023 Honda Ridgeline are the only trucks that could pull off this victory.
2023 Toyota Tacoma vs. 2023 Honda Ridgeline: Which truck is better?
The 2023 Toyota Tacoma and the 2023 Honda Ridgeline outperform each other in different areas. For example, the Tacoma is the better off-roader, and the Ridgeline has a larger rear seat. They don’t exactly compare apples to apples.
But while sitting at opposite ends of the spectrum, these two trucks actually have one win in common. They are the only midsize trucks that managed to increase their sales during the first half of 2023.
The Tacoma sold 108,648 models during the first half of 2022 and 116,845 units during the first half of 2023. This represents a 7.5% sales increase.
The Ridgeline sold 19,979 models during the first half of 2022 and increased sales to 27,430 models in the first half of 2023. It received a 38.6% increase.
While the difference between 116,845 and 27,430 is massive, the Ridgeline still gets to brag because nearly every other midsize truck experienced a 20% decrease in sales. At least the Ridgeline is growing, even if Tacoma sales run laps around it.
The Chevy Colorado moved 44,190 units in the first half of 2022 and only 3,165 models in the first half of 2023, representing a 24.9% decrease in sales.
How are the Tacoma and Ridgeline different?
The 2023 Toyota Tacoma has a traditional body-on-frame build. That means it’s easier to repair, more durable, and better for off-roading. For example, it has true 4×4 capabilities and more suspension travel.
Meanwhile, the 2023 Honda Ridgeline has a unibody suspension, which limits its off-roading potential. But it makes the truck more comfortable with a smoother performance and more direct handling.
The 2023 Tacoma is seen as the more affordable work truck option. It has an MSRP of $28,250. The 2023 Ridgeline starts at $38,800. That’s roughly a $10,000 difference, but the standard Tacoma is pretty barebones compared to the entry-level Ridgeline.
Also, the Tacoma has a ground clearance of up to 9.7 inches, and the Ridgeline sits at 7.6 inches, making the Tacoma better suited for clearing obstacles.
But the Ridgeline is a little wider to provide more passenger space. The Tacoma is longer and can be equipped with an extended bed.
Does the Tacoma or Ridgeline have more power?
The 2023 Honda Ridgeline uses a reliable standard 3.5-liter V6 engine with 280 and 262 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.2 seconds.
With the Tacoma, the standard 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine that cranks out 159 hp and 160 lb-ft of torque. Upgrade to the 3.5-liter V6 engine for 278 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque. The engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, and a six-speed manual is available.
The Tacoma can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.7 seconds. It can tow up to 6,800 lbs and carry a payload of up to 1,685 lbs. The Ridgeline can tow up to 5,000 lbs and carry a payload of up to 1,583 lbs.
So the Tacoma is the more affordable, rugged truck for work and off-roading, while the Ridgeline is more comfortable and luxurious. They appeal to different types of drivers but are the only trucks that can brag about growing in the segment.
