2029 Honda Ridgeline Redesign: Everything We Know So Far About Honda's Upcoming Pickup
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The Honda Ridgeline is finally preparing for a major update. After spending nearly a decade in its current form, Honda’s midsize pickup is expected to return with refreshed styling, an updated V6 engine, and several mechanical improvements while keeping its practical unibody design.
Although the next generation is still a few years away, reports have already revealed several details about the upcoming model. Here’s everything we know so far.
Honda Ridgeline Could Receive a Major Redesign
The current second generation Honda Ridgeline arrived for the 2017 model year and is now approaching its tenth year on the market. Despite its age, Honda appears committed to keeping the pickup alive instead of discontinuing it.
According to recent reports, Honda is expected to pause Ridgeline production during the fourth quarter of this year before restarting production in the third quarter of 2028. The updated truck is expected to return with revised styling and a new V6 engine that meets stricter emissions standards.
That means buyers could see the pickup return stronger rather than disappear from the lineup.
Honda Is Likely to Keep the Ridgeline Name
Honda introduced the Ridgeline almost 20 years ago, and there is little reason to believe the company will change its identity.
The first generation model came with a 3.5 litre V6 engine producing 255 horsepower and offered a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. It also featured independent suspension and all wheel drive, making it different from traditional body on frame pickups.
Production stopped briefly between generations, with no Ridgeline sold during the 2015 and 2016 model years. The second generation launched for 2017 and later gained updates such as the TrailSport trim for 2024.
The TrailSport variant has become increasingly popular, so Honda may place even greater emphasis on its off road focused version when the redesigned truck arrives.
Exterior Design Expected to Follow the New Passport
The upcoming Ridgeline is expected to continue using its existing platform, so buyers should not expect a complete transformation underneath.
However, the exterior could receive a significant makeover inspired by the latest Honda Passport.
Expected styling highlights include:
- Squared off body design
- Slim front grille with Honda badge
- Rectangular LED headlights
- Larger skid plate for a tougher appearance
- Red front tow hooks
- More upright front fascia
- T shaped rear taillight signature
- More rugged TrailSport inspired styling
The overall design could resemble a pickup version of the new Passport, giving the Ridgeline a more modern and muscular appearance.
Updated V6 Engine Could Power the New Ridgeline
One of the biggest expected changes is under the hood.
The current Ridgeline uses Honda’s 3.5 litre J35Y6 V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower through a single overhead cam design.
The updated model is expected to receive a newer version of Honda’s V6 engine family.
Expected powertrain upgrades
| Feature | Current Model | Expected Updated Model |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5-litre J35Y6 V6 | Updated 3.5-litre V6 |
| Horsepower | 280 hp | Around 285 hp expected |
| Valve Layout | Single Overhead Cam (SOHC) | Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC) |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic | 10-speed automatic |
| Paddle Shifters | No | Expected |
Honda is also developing a new V6 engine for its future hybrid system. While it remains unclear whether the Ridgeline will receive hybrid technology immediately, the new engine program could influence future versions of the pickup.
The addition of a 10 speed automatic transmission would also improve highway driving, acceleration, and fuel efficiency compared with the outgoing nine speed unit.
Platform Will Remain Familiar
The updated Ridgeline is expected to continue riding on Honda’s PF7 platform, which is shared with the Pilot and Passport.
Keeping the same architecture allows Honda to reduce development costs while maintaining the comfortable ride quality that separates the Ridgeline from many traditional midsize trucks.
However, engineers could revise the structure to improve:
- Chassis rigidity
- Crash protection
- Overall safety
- Suspension tuning
- Noise and vibration control
These upgrades could help the truck stay competitive against newer rivals.
Expected Competition
When the updated Ridgeline arrives, competition in the midsize pickup segment will be stronger than ever.
Some of its biggest rivals include:
- Ford Ranger
- Toyota Tacoma
- Chevrolet Colorado
- Nissan Frontier
Future competitors are also expected to include a new Ram Dakota and a replacement for Hyundai’s Santa Cruz, making the segment even more competitive.
When Will the New Honda Ridgeline Debut?
Current reports suggest production could begin during the third quarter of 2028.
If that timeline remains accurate, Honda may unveil the truck sometime in mid 2027. However, an early 2028 reveal is also possible.
Industry expectations suggest the pickup could ultimately be sold as a 2029 Honda Ridgeline, despite arriving before the 2029 calendar year.
Expected Price
The current 2026 Honda Ridgeline lineup starts at:
| Trim | Starting Price |
|---|---|
| Ridgeline Sport | $42,290 |
| Ridgeline TrailSport | $46,490 |
| Ridgeline Black Edition | $49,390 |
The redesigned model is expected to remain positioned above the $40,000 mark.
Given rising production costs and additional technology, a starting price close to $45,000 would not be surprising when the updated truck reaches dealerships.
Final Thoughts
The Honda Ridgeline has always followed its own path instead of copying traditional body on frame pickups. Its unibody construction delivers a smoother ride and everyday practicality that appeals to many buyers.
The upcoming redesign appears focused on improving styling, updating the powertrain, and refining the truck without abandoning its unique character. If Honda successfully combines rugged new looks with better performance and modern technology, the next Ridgeline could remain a strong alternative in the growing midsize pickup market.
Until Honda officially reveals the truck, many details remain subject to change, but the future of the Ridgeline looks far from over.
Sources & References
- Honda Newsroom (Official)
Official source for Honda press releases, product announcements, specifications, and future model updates.
https://hondanews.com/en-US - Honda Automobiles USA (Official)
Official Honda website for current Ridgeline specifications, trims, pricing, and features.
https://automobiles.honda.com/ridgeline - Honda Global (Official)
Corporate website covering Honda’s global strategy, technology, hybrid development, and company announcements.
https://global.honda - Motor1 US
Trusted automotive publication covering industry news, spy shots, renderings, and upcoming vehicle reports.
https://www.motor1.com - Car and Driver
One of America’s most respected automotive magazines with reviews, comparisons, and future vehicle coverage.
https://www.caranddriver.com - MotorTrend
US based automotive publication offering in depth reviews, first drives, and industry news.
https://www.motortrend.com - Edmunds
Excellent source for pricing, ownership costs, expert reviews, and buying advice.
https://www.edmunds.com - Kelley Blue Book (KBB)
Industry leader for vehicle values, pricing, expert reviews, and market analysis.
https://www.kbb.com - Cars.com
Provides vehicle reviews, comparisons, buying guides, and dealership listings across the US.
https://www.cars.com - J.D. Power
Trusted source for vehicle quality ratings, dependability studies, and consumer research.
https://www.jdpower.com - IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety)
Official source for crash test results and vehicle safety ratings in the United States.
https://www.iihs.org - NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration)
US government authority for recalls, safety ratings, and vehicle investigations.
https://www.nhtsa.gov - EPA Fuel Economy (Official)
Official US government database for fuel economy estimates and emissions information.
https://www.fueleconomy.gov - Consumer Reports
Independent nonprofit organization known for unbiased vehicle testing and reliability ratings.
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars - PickupTrucks.com
Dedicated publication covering pickup truck news, comparisons, towing tests, and reviews.
https://www.pickuptrucks.com
