Exploring the Powertrain Options of the Honda Ridgeline
When shopping for a versatile midsize truck, fuel efficiency and environmental impact often rank high on the priority list. Hybrid technology has become increasingly popular among modern vehicles, leading many potential buyers to ask: Is the Honda Ridgeline a hybrid?
The short answer is no,at least not yet. While the Honda Ridgeline offers impressive performance, comfort, and efficiency for a gas-powered truck, it is currently powered by a traditional gasoline V6 engine. However, there’s more to the story when we explore its capabilities, efficiency, and what the future might hold for a hybrid version.
The Current Honda Ridgeline Powertrain
The Honda Ridgeline is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a smooth 9-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive (AWD), this setup delivers a balanced blend of capability and refinement.
While it’s not a hybrid, the Ridgeline is known for:
Smooth on-road handling more akin to an SUV than a traditional body-on-frame truck.
Respectable fuel economy for its class, with an EPA-estimated 18 mpg city / 24 mpg highway.
Impressive towing capability, able to pull up to 5,000 lbs.
Honda has optimized the Ridgeline to be an efficient gasoline-powered truck, even without any hybrid assistance.
Why Honda Hasn’t Released a Hybrid Ridgeline Yet
There are several reasons why the Honda Ridgeline hasn’t yet transitioned to hybrid power:
Market Priorities – Honda’s hybrid technology has primarily been focused on sedans and SUVs like the Accord Hybrid, CR-V Hybrid, and the upcoming Prologue EV.
Engineering Considerations – The Ridgeline’s unibody construction offers car-like comfort but requires unique engineering to integrate hybrid components.
Consumer Demand in the Truck Segment – While hybrid trucks like the Ford Maverick and Toyota Tundra Hybrid are gaining attention, the midsize hybrid truck market is still emerging.
That said, the growing push for electrification means that a future hybrid or even electric Ridgeline is possible. Honda has already committed to expanding electrified models, which could eventually include its only pickup truck.
Comparing the Ridgeline’s Efficiency to Hybrid Trucks
While the Ridgeline is not a hybrid, it certainly holds its own against hybrid competitors in certain areas:
The Maverick Hybrid outshines the Ridgeline in city mileage but falls short in towing. The Tundra Hybrid offers more power but is also significantly larger and heavier.
Benefits of the Current Gas-Powered Ridgeline
Even without hybrid technology, the Honda Ridgeline stands out for several reasons:
Car-like ride comfort thanks to its unibody platform.
Versatile truck bed with a dual-action tailgate and in-bed trunk.
Standard safety features like Honda Sensing® driver-assist technologies.
Strong resale value backed by Honda’s reputation for reliability.
These qualities make the Ridgeline a practical choice for buyers who value comfort, versatility, and moderate towing needs over maximum fuel economy.
The Future: Will We See a Hybrid Ridgeline?
Industry experts believe hybrid and electric trucks will dominate the future, especially as emissions standards tighten. Given Honda’s move toward electrification, with the Prologue EV and the expansion of hybrid CR-V and Accord production, a hybrid Ridgeline could realistically arrive within the next few years.
Potential benefits of a hybrid Ridgeline might include:
Improved fuel economy for city driving.
Additional torque for towing and off-road use.
Reduced emissions while maintaining truck capability.
So, is the Honda Ridgeline a hybrid?
No, but it remains one of the most comfortable, versatile, and well-built trucks in the midsize category. If you want SUV-like handling with the utility of a truck bed and all-wheel drive and without requiring a hybrid powertrain, the current Ridgeline delivers in spades.
For those waiting on a hybrid option, the future looks promising as Honda continues to invest in electrified vehicles. Until then, the Ridgeline’s efficiency, practicality, and Honda engineering make it a smart buy for many truck shoppers.
Ready to experience the Honda Ridgeline for yourself?
Explore our latest Honda Ridgeline inventory here and see why it’s a standout in the midsize truck segment.