The second generation of Honda’s magnificent Ridgeline will be ready to go on sale very soon. The 2017 model replaces the 2006 model which began to show its age long time ago. Even though we’ve come closer to the release date of the vehicle, Honda is pretty quiet about it. The first generation of the Ridgeline was a crossover-like model with open pickup bed and it seems that the next generation will come as a more rugged vehicle. The carmaker claims that the upcoming model will come with improved towing and payload capacity. The changes under the hood are also highly anticipated. The 2017 Honda Ridgeline was officially unveiled at the North American Auto show and what Honda brings to the table with its revamped Ridgeline, find out in the article below.
2017 Honda Ridgeline Exterior
At this point, we cannot say much about the exterior design of the 2017 Honda Ridgeline, because the carmaker hasn’t published a proper image yet. Don’t worry; we will share with you our opinions, rumors, and speculations. According to some rumors, the newcomer will have a more traditional look. The pickup bed with sloping sail panels will no longer be present. They now created a harder angle between the bed and the cab. Moreover, the vehicle has dropped off its hybrid uni-body design. We know this because the gap between the bed and cab is clearly visible, which suggests that they now used a ladder frame construction. The teaser photo we managed to get also reveals that the newcomer features a traditional stepped rear bumper. The newcomer has two-way tailgate and C-shaped taillights. In our opinion, the 2017 Ridgeline will borrow a lot of styling cues from the Pilot and other Honda’s vehicles.
Interior of 2017 Ridgeline
Since only one teaser image has been published, you can assume that we know very little about the interior design of the 2017 Ridgeline, at least at this point. One thing is certain, the cabin will be significantly improved in terms of design, materials, and technological gizmos. We believe that environment and ambience of the cabin will be something familiar and stuffed with latest safety, convenience, and technological features. We also expect the carmaker to show their skills in creating innovative storage spaces. More details about the vehicle will be published closer to its release.
Honda Ridgeline 2017 Engine
At this point, we know nothing about 2017 Honda Ridgeline engine. We think that the vehicle will be powered by the same V6 engine as the Pilot. Powering the Pilot is a 3.5-liter V-6 with the maximum output of 280 ponies and level of torque rated at 262 pound-feet. The engine utilizes the carmaker’s iVTEC valve-train for better fuel efficiency and performance. If the carmaker decides for a RWD design, a new gearbox will be needed since Pilot’s drivetrain is transversely mounted. If by any chance Honda decides for a FWD configuration, it can use the transversely mounted powertrain and a ladder frame chassis.
Release date of 2017 Honda Ridgeline
Honda announced that the 2017 Honda Ridgeline will be officially unveiled at the North American Auto Show and that it will go on sale in the beginning of 2016.
You can find more info on official Honda site.
