2023 Honda Ridgeline RTL Review

Despite being around for a lesser time than its rivals, the Honda Ridgeline still manages to be the most capable, comfortable, and high-end pickup truck in the midsize class. The 2023 model also possesses these qualities, but how good is its RTL trim?

To find out, the following is the 2023 Honda Ridgeline RTL review:

Features

The 2023 Honda Ridgeline is a part of the 2nd generation of the truck which was introduced in 2017 and updated in 2021. It has evolved perfectly and still manages to rule its class. There are 4 trim levels offered, one of which is the RTL. It is just above the base Sport model.

You get 1 powertrain option and plenty of standard features, and this year’s model gets no changes. The Ridgeline has been ranked atop its class by Car and Driver, US News, Edmunds, and some others.

Powertrain and Numbers

All the 2023 Ridgeline models come with an action-packed 3.5-liter V6 engine, that makes 280 hp and 262 lb-ft. It pairs up with a 9-speed automatic transmission to send power to an all-wheel drive system.

The 2023 Ridgeline RTL can hence accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just about 6s. It is also great at being a pickup truck so you can expect it to tow and haul a lot of pounds. The maximum towing and hauling capacities for this truck are 5000 and 1600 lbs respectively.

Despite the relatively large engine and high power output, the 2023 Ridgeline RTL is a fuel-efficient vehicle. It can do up to 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, according to its EPA ratings.

Interior and Technology

The 2023 Honda Ridgeline has a remarkable interior in terms of everything. It is attractive, the build and material quality is solid, and there’s quite a lot of space. This workhorse truck can seat up to five people in an environment that’s more upscale than many sedans.

But this isn’t the only area where it leads the class. In fact, you get stellar in-cabin storage that includes many adequately sized cubbies and a large bin at the center console. There’s also another storage compartment under the second-row seats.

The interior colors offered on the 2023 Ridgeline RTL are:

• Black
• Gray

Despite being meant for rugged usage on the job site, the 2023 Ridgeline RTL is equipped quite generously. You get niceties such as leather-trimmed seats and steering wheel. There’s tri-zone climate control, push-button ignition, keyless entry, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.

There are 10- and 4-way power-adjustable driver and passenger seats, with the former having memory settings and both being heated. You also get a one-touch powered moonroof, powered windows and locking (tailgate included), and 12V power outlets.

Then, we also have a high-end infotainment system. It comprises an 8-inch touchscreen that works in unison with a set of 7 speakers. You also get Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, several USB ports, SiriusXM radio, and Bluetooth.

For safety, there are goodies such as forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alerts, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and a multi-angle rearview camera.

This doesn’t leave a lot left for the options list, but one still exists. You can opt for a heated steering wheel, backup sensors, wireless phone charging, and more.

Exterior and Driving

Honda is known for making good-looking cars and the 2023 Honda Ridgeline models are no different. The Ridgeline RTL is a crew cab truck that comes with LED headlights, taillights, and fog lights. It also features a set of 18-inch gray alloy wheels.

The RTL gets upgraded over the base model with an acoustic windshield, a power-sliding rear window, and heated side mirrors with turn Indicators and memory settings. But what about its storage capabilities then?

Well, you get a 5-foot-3 truck bed that comes with a unique storage compartment underneath it, that’s lockable. It is also quite wide and because it is a dual-action tailgate, you can open it by pulling it down or to the side – increasing accessibility and practicality.

The exterior colors available on the 2023 Ridgeline RTL are the following:

The 2023 Honda Ridgeline RTL is very fun to drive whether you’re on or off-tarmac. Not only does it accelerate smoothly, but it also boasts the best handling and steering in its class. It is truly a great cruiser and the comfort levels are top-notch for a midsize pickup truck.

Reliability and Warranty

The 2023 Honda Ridgeline models get a predicted reliability rating of 80 out of 100 from JD Power, putting it at average for a new vehicle. The same has been said of it by Consumer Reports. The reviews from actual owners are also great in this regard, so far.

Then we have the warranties, and this truck gets two. There’s a limited warranty that provides coverage for 3 years/36k miles. Then there’s also the powertrain components warranty that is good for 5 years/60k miles.

Honda is also one of the very few automakers that offer complimentary maintenance for 2 years/24k miles.

Verdict

This was the 2023 Honda Ridgeline RTL, a flawless truck in pretty much all aspects. Starting from the top, you get a refined and powerful engine that makes the truck quick, helps it tow and haul a lot, and gives it a nice fuel economy.

Then you have a lovely interior that’s built well, provides outstanding comfort levels, and superb in-cabin storage. There are many high-tech features in regard to convenience, infotainment, and safety. You also get a highly spacious truck bed, plus a unique storage area under it.

The reliability is very decent and you also get complimentary maintenance from Honda for a limited time period.

To get the 2023 Honda Ridgeline RTL in Woods Cross, North Salt Lake UT, Centerville UT, and Bountiful UT, check out Performance Honda Bountiful here.