2017 Honda Ridgeline vs 2016 Toyota Tacoma Comparison

2017 Honda Ridgeline vs 2016 Toyota Tacoma

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The 2017 Honda Ridgeline has returned as a strong challenger in the mid-size truck class. In a grille-to-grille comparison, the Ridgeline is prepared to take on the 2016 Toyota Tacoma in many key areas. With updated styling and multiple unique features not found on the competition, the 2017 Honda Ridgeline is more than just a truck.

Design

Both the Tacoma and the Ridgeline offer a four-door, five-passenger cabin, but the Honda can claim more interior space. The Ridgeline offers the most rear legroom in its class. Unlike other midsize pickup trucks such as the Tacoma, the Ridgeline utilizes a unibody platform. This unibody construction improves handling, ride quality, and cabin noise levels. This helps make for a superior ride in comparison to competing trucks. The Ridgeline definitely handles more like a car than the Tacoma.

Unique Bed Features

The Toyota Tacoma has a nice-sized bed, but the Ridgeline can claim a slightly better one. Its five-feet, four-inches long and five-feet wide. That's 3.5 inches longer than the Tacoma bed. Best of all, the Ridgeline bed has a completely flat section that's four-feet wide. The bed is lined with a special material that Honda has proven is quite durable. Nothing seems to phase it much. The Ridgeline tailgate offers dual action. It can lower like a regular tailgate, just as it does on a Tacoma. Yet it can also swing out like a car door, a class-exclusive capability not found on the Tacoma or any other midsized truck. Another class-exclusive feature, the Ridgeline has an in-bed trunk. This lockable area doesn't take up room that's needed for cargo. Another unique feature for the 2017 Honda Ridgeline is the industry-first Truck Bed Audio System. Listen to your favorite tunes through the 540 watt, six speaker system integrated into the truck bed while you work.

Technology

When it comes to dash tech, both trucks offer smartphone integration, audio display, Bluetooth, and a rearview camera as standards. The Ridgeline also has standard push button start and a 4.2-inch screen on the instrument panel. Furthermore, the Honda distinguishes itself with a multi-view rearview camera and a larger navigation touchscreen. The Ridgeline also offers the exclusive Honda LaneWatch. This system puts a camera on the passenger side mirror. This blind spot monitor broadcasts to the dash screen, informing the driver about lane change safety. The 2017 Honda Ridgeline also offers a forward collision system with the added benefit of automatic braking. It also has a lane departure system that can act to correct the truck's trajectory. Of these crash avoidance features, the Tacoma only offers a blind spot monitor.

If you are looking for the right midsized truck, try the one with a more carlike demeanor, better fuel economy and a bigger cabin. Test drive the 2017 Honda Ridgeline at Crown Honda in Pinellas Park, FL.

* 19 city/26 highway/22 combined mpg rating for 2WD models. 18 city/25 highway/21 combined mpg rating for AWD models. Use for comparison purposes only. Based on 2017 EPA mileage ratings. Your mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions and other factors.