Why We Need a Honda Ridgeline TrailSport
There’s really no getting around it; as a midsize truck, the Honda Ridgeline has never been the most popular. But with the third-generation Ridgeline rumored to be on the way, maybe this small pickup could see some new interest from the public. One thing that would undoubtedly help would be the introduction of a Honda Ridgeline TrailSport.
What is the Honda TrailSport package?
Basically, the Honda TrailSport package is an option that adds some legitimate off-road capability to a Honda. It can currently be found on the Passport as well as the Honda Pilot. In fact, the Honda Pilot TrailSport is new for 2023. And apparently, it can actually handle life on the trails.
In the video above, you can see the new Pilot TrailSport tackling some rugged terrain with ease. It comes with skid plates, a lift, and some other off-road goodies. Making it an SUV ready for adventure. And that is something that would certainly be cool to see on the Honda Ridgeline.
A Honda Ridgeline TrailSport would be a hit
Honda does not currently offer a midsize truck that comes from the factory ready for off-roading. At least serious off-road situations. It does come standard with AWD and its V6 engine, but that TrailSport package could take things to the next level.
Of course, folks do modify their Ridgeline trucks to do some 4×4 activities. You can always add skid plates yourself and make other mods to improve a pickup’s capabilities. But wrenching on a car is not something that everyone loves to do. By offering a Ridgeline TrailSport, Honda would have a truck that could probably compete with the Ford Maverick Tremor.
Is Honda redesigning the Ridgeline?
With Honda offering a new generation of Pilot SUV, it’s hard not to think the brand is planning a new Ridgeline. The current-gen of this truck has been around for some time. And it does not necessarily fit with Honda’s current design language. An update would likely mean a new interior and possibly a more rugged-looking exterior.
My personal hope is that the third-gen Ridgeline would also add a TrailSport trim. I’m not saying a Honda Ridgeline TrailSport would be the most capable thing on the road. But if you like camping or the occasional off-road adventure, it would probably be good enough.
For now, the Pilot SUV might be the best indicator of what the future holds for Honda’s truck. And according to Car and Driver, it is a fairly desirable vehicle. With trucks like the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz growing in popularity, maybe an updated Ridgeline would bring it some more attention.
After all, the Ridgeline has never struggled with earning the praise of journalists and various publications. That love has just not really translated into success for Honda in terms of sales. I don’t think it’s too much of a stretch to call this truck underrated. If the Japanese automaker gives the Ridgeline a full redesign, maybe it will finally win over the hearts of truck buyers.
