Honda’s revamped Ridgeline is right on time. This brand-new pickup, showcased at the North American International Auto Show, joins a swiftly expanding area in the car market: midsize pickup trucks.
In 2015, midsize pickups witnessed a growth of 48.4 percent, outpacing the total auto industry growth of 5.7 percent, as per AutoData Corp’s data. This substantial surge coincided with Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon’s launch, which broadened this segment without impinging on the top seller, Toyota Tacoma’s sales, which also saw a boost of 15.8 percent that year.
The Ridgeline, known for its unibody construction, comfy ride, and distinct features, should contribute to this segment’s growth without vying for a limited pool of existing customers.
“Sales will continue to rise,” stated Rebecca Lindland, a senior analyst at Kelley Blue Book. “I perceive a lot of replacement demand.”
According to Lindland, the Ridgeline appeals to customers who are less inclined to other midsize pickups. “These are vehicles for the family,” she said. “It’s a truck for the lifestyle.”
The Ridgeline, set to launch later this year, presents a fresh perspective on what a pickup should be for its users.
John Mendel, the executive vice president of America Honda Motor Co., stated during Ridgeline’s unveiling that it deliberately departs from conventional body-on-frame pickups, providing a unique alternative to Tacoma, Colorado, and Canyon.
“We believe we’ve come up with a superior solution, a truck that leverages its unibody structure and Honda’s packaging prowess to offer more of what many modern truck users want and need, without any unnecessary features,” said Mendel at the Monday press briefing.
The Ridgeline will come with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive, and will be equipped with Honda’s 3.5L direct injection V6. It’s paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Even though fuel economy numbers are yet to be disclosed, Honda executives anticipate it to achieve a segment-topping figure, presently standing at 27 miles per gallon.