Model Tested: 2021 Honda Ridgeline AWD Sport
![](https://autoreviewers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/2021_Ridgeline_Sport_with_HPD_Package_0029-370x247.jpg)
Engine: 3.5-liter V-6, 280 horsepower, 262 lb-ft torque
Transmission: 9-speed automatic, all-wheel-drive
EPA Rating: 18-mpg city, 24-mpg highway, 21-mpg combined
Base Price: $36,490
As Tested: $40,860
Performance:
All-wheel-drive is now standard
Smooth automatic transmission
Good fuel economy for a truck—our best was 24.2-mpg
![](https://autoreviewers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/2021_Ridgeline_Sport_with_HPD_Package_0070-370x247.jpg)
Acceptable acceleration, but not especially quick
Smooth, car-like highway ride
Impressive off-road capabilities
Paddle shifters
5,000 pound towing capacity
Nice array of safety features
Bronze 18-inch HPD wheels
Comfort:
Spacious, high quality interior
Comfy, supportive front seats
Driver power lumbar support
![](https://autoreviewers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/2021_Ridgeline_Sport_with_HPD_Package_0050-370x247.jpg)
Ample headroom
Flat rear floor
Adults fit fine in rear seat including middle position
Soft, wide armrest with cupholders
Good range tilt/telescopic column
Large amount of auxiliary steering wheel controls
Utility:
Big, deep console bin with sliding cover
Large front door bins
Lockable tailgate
Huge locking “trunk” under bed floor
![](https://autoreviewers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/04-2021-Honda-Ridgeline-Sport-source-370x233.jpg)
Sturdy tie-down cleats
No rear door bins
Two large seatback pouches
Split rear seat folds up for big items
Bed is good size for homeowners
Four-foot wide plywood fits in bed
Receiver hitch
Locking, medium size glovebox
WOW Factors:
Great, roomy interior front and back
Lots of small items interior storage
Huge, lockable storage bin under bed deck
![](https://autoreviewers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/08-2021-Honda-Ridgeline-RTL-E-370x199.jpg)
Car/SUV ride/comfort with truck/SUV functions
Double-action tailgate
Whines:
Oversized wheel arches seem more cosmetic than functional
Plastic steering wheel not in keeping with rest of interior quality
HPD package overpriced
Bottom Line:
The 2021 Honda Ridgeline Sport with the HPD (Honda Performance Development) package adds a more
![](https://autoreviewers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/2021_Ridgeline_Sport_with_HPD_Package_0023-370x247.jpg)
rugged look to this compact pickup. That seems to be what buyers want, but we think the Ridgeline looks much better without the extra gingerbread. The Ridgeline is a handsome compact luxury pickup with excellent SUV capabilities, great interior room/comfort and a very useful size cargo bed with a bonus “trunk.”
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