2026 Honda Ridgeline: A Midsize Truck That Does Things Differently
The 2026 Honda Ridgeline has never followed the traditional midsize-truck formula, and that's exactly where its appeal begins. Every model gets a 280 hp V6, i-VTM4® AWD, a 9-speed automatic transmission, and up to 5,000 lbs. of towing capacity, but the more interesting engineering is found in its independent suspension and unusually versatile cargo system. For drivers around Columbia, MO, the Ridgeline combines seating for 5 with legitimate hauling hardware and several bed features conventional pickups simply don't offer.
The V6 and AWD Are Standard Equipment
Every 2026 Ridgeline uses a direct-injected 3.5L i-VTEC® V6 producing 280 hp and 262 lbs. ft. of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and standard i-VTM4® AWD. Intelligent Traction Management adds Normal, Snow, Sand, and Mud modes, giving drivers settings tailored to changing surfaces without requiring a separate drivetrain configuration. The Ridgeline also uses a fully independent MacPherson-strut front and multi-link rear suspension, a significant mechanical departure from many traditional pickups. Every trim can tow up to 5,000 lbs., while Sport provides a maximum payload capacity of 1,583 lbs., giving the truck enough capacity for trailers, equipment, and weekend projects.
The Bed Is Where the Ridgeline Gets Clever
Honda's composite bed provides 33.9 cubic feet of cargo volume and measures 64 inches long with the tailgate raised, with 50 inches of width between the wheel wells. Beneath the floor sits one of the Ridgeline's defining features: a lockable 7.3-cubic-foot In-Bed Trunk® with a drain plug. It creates enclosed storage without occupying cabin space or requiring a separate toolbox above the bed. The Dual-Action Tailgate can drop conventionally or swing open from the side, making access to the In-Bed Trunk® considerably easier, while an available 150W/400W truck-bed power outlet can supply electricity to compatible equipment.
Five Adults Get a Proper Cabin
Every Ridgeline seats 5, with 40.9 inches of front legroom and 36.7 inches in the second row. A 60/40 split lift-up rear seat exposes 2.9 cubic feet of underseat storage, giving owners another place to secure smaller equipment inside the cab, while tri-zone automatic climate control is standard. RTL adds perforated leather-trimmed seating, heated front seats, a 10-way power driver's seat, one-touch power moonroof, and power sliding rear window. Black Edition moves further with ventilated front seats, heated rear outboard seats, and a heated steering wheel.
The Standard Technology Covers the Important Stuff
A 9-inch touchscreen, 7-inch digital meter display, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, HondaLink®, and wireless phone charging come standard across the 2026 Ridgeline lineup. Sport, RTL, and TrailSport use a 215-watt 7-speaker audio system, while Black Edition upgrades to a 540-watt 8-speaker setup. Honda Sensing® driver-assistance technology is also standard, giving buyers the core safety and connectivity equipment without requiring a move into one of the higher configurations.
TrailSport Adds Hardware for Leaving the Pavement
TrailSport builds from RTL but changes more than wheels and exterior trim. Honda adds an off-road-tuned suspension, 18-inch Shark Gray alloy wheels with P245/60 R18 all-terrain tires, and an oil-pan skid plate, giving this version hardware designed for rougher surfaces. Front and rear parking sensors, Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation Systemâ„¢, a heated steering wheel, Trail Orange stitching, orange ambient lighting, and all-weather floor mats are also included. TrailSport+ adds 18-inch Honda Performance Developmentâ„¢ black alloy wheels for buyers looking for a different wheel treatment without changing the underlying TrailSport equipment.
Four Core Trims Cover Different Jobs
Sport establishes the Ridgeline's mechanical foundation with the V6, AWD, 5,000-lb. towing capability, and core cabin technology already in place. RTL adds leather and comfort equipment, TrailSport introduces its off-road suspension, all-terrain tires, and skid plate, and Black Edition concentrates on premium cabin features with distinctive 18-inch Berlina Black wheels. Available TrailSport+ HPD wheel and Black Edition Two-Tone configurations provide additional appearance choices while retaining the capability of their respective core trims.
Put the 2026 Ridgeline to Work at Columbia Honda
Drivers around Columbia, MO, can visit Columbia Honda to compare Ridgeline trims, explore available Honda truck inventory, and see how features such as the In-Bed Trunk®, Dual-Action Tailgate, and TrailSport hardware work in person. Schedule a test drive online to experience the 280 hp V6, standard i-VTM4® AWD, and independent suspension from the driver's seat.