What To Know
- The Honda Ridgeline and Ford Ranger come equipped with an array of advanced technologies and safety features.
- With its efficient V6 engine and 9-speed automatic transmission, the Ridgeline achieves an EPA-estimated 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
- The EcoBoost engine achieves an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, while the Power Stroke diesel engine delivers an impressive 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
In the realm of midsize pickup trucks, two titans stand tall: the Honda Ridgeline and the Ford Ranger. Both vehicles boast impressive capabilities, advanced technologies, and stylish designs, making them top contenders in the market. But which one emerges as the superior choice? This comprehensive comparison delves into the key aspects of the Honda Ridgeline and Ford Ranger, providing valuable insights to help you make an informed decision.
Performance and Powertrain: A Battle of Strength and Efficiency
Under the hood, the Honda Ridgeline and Ford Ranger offer distinct powertrain options. The Ridgeline features a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, generating 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This combination delivers a smooth and responsive driving experience, with ample power for towing and hauling.
The Ford Ranger, on the other hand, comes with two engine choices: a 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and a 3.0-liter Power Stroke turbo-diesel V6 engine. The EcoBoost engine produces 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, while the Power Stroke engine generates 250 horsepower and 440 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission, providing exceptional power and torque for various driving conditions.
Capability: Hauling and Towing Prowess
When it comes to hauling and towing capabilities, the Honda Ridgeline and Ford Ranger demonstrate their strengths. The Ridgeline offers a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,580 pounds. Its innovative dual-action tailgate, with swing-open and drop-down functionality, enhances loading and unloading convenience.
The Ford Ranger surpasses the Ridgeline in towing and hauling capabilities. It boasts a maximum towing capacity of 7,500 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,860 pounds. Its rugged construction and powerful engines make it an ideal choice for heavy-duty tasks and off-road adventures.
Interior and Comfort: A Clash of Styles and Amenities
Inside the cabin, the Honda Ridgeline and Ford Ranger present contrasting design philosophies. The Ridgeline’s interior exudes a modern and sophisticated ambiance, with high-quality materials, intuitive controls, and a user-friendly infotainment system. The spacious cabin offers ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers, ensuring a comfortable ride experience.
The Ford Ranger’s interior, while not as refined as the Ridgeline’s, offers a rugged and utilitarian feel. The cabin is well-built, with durable materials and straightforward controls. The front seats provide good support and comfort, but the rear seats may feel cramped for taller passengers.
Technology and Safety: A Showcase of Advanced Features
The Honda Ridgeline and Ford Ranger come equipped with an array of advanced technologies and safety features. The Ridgeline boasts the Honda Sensing suite of driver-assist technologies, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. It also features a large touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, providing seamless smartphone connectivity.
The Ford Ranger offers the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of safety features, which includes blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. It also comes with a SYNC 3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, providing access to navigation, music, and smartphone integration.
Fuel Efficiency: Balancing Power and Economy
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Honda Ridgeline takes the lead. With its efficient V6 engine and 9-speed automatic transmission, the Ridgeline achieves an EPA-estimated 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
The Ford Ranger, with its more powerful engines, has slightly lower fuel economy ratings. The EcoBoost engine achieves an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, while the Power Stroke diesel engine delivers an impressive 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
Off-Road Capability: Conquering Rugged Terrain
The Honda Ridgeline and Ford Ranger both offer off-road capabilities, but they approach it differently. The Ridgeline features an intelligent all-wheel-drive system that automatically distributes power to the wheels with the most traction. It also has a ground clearance of 8.5 inches and a hill descent control system for added off-road confidence.
The Ford Ranger, known for its exceptional off-road prowess, comes with a Terrain Management System that allows drivers to select different driving modes for various terrains. It also has a higher ground clearance of 8.9 inches, skid plates for underbody protection, and an electronic-locking rear differential for enhanced traction.
Verdict: Unveiling the Champion
After a thorough comparison of the Honda Ridgeline and Ford Ranger, the victor emerges based on individual preferences and needs. Those seeking a refined and fuel-efficient midsize pickup truck with impressive towing capabilities will find the Honda Ridgeline an excellent choice. Its comfortable interior, advanced technologies, and innovative features make it a well-rounded option for everyday use and occasional off-road adventures.
On the other hand, those who prioritize raw power, exceptional towing and hauling capabilities, and serious off-road performance will be drawn to the Ford Ranger. Its rugged construction, powerful engines, and advanced off-road features make it an ideal companion for heavy-duty tasks and challenging terrains.
Ultimately, the decision between the Honda Ridgeline and Ford Ranger depends on the specific requirements and preferences of the buyer. Both vehicles offer unique strengths and capabilities, ensuring that there’s a perfect choice for every truck enthusiast.
Top Questions Asked
1. Which vehicle has a more comfortable ride quality?
The Honda Ridgeline generally offers a more comfortable ride quality due to its refined suspension system and well-cushioned seats.
2. Which vehicle has a larger cargo bed?
The Ford Ranger has a larger cargo bed, measuring 61.1 inches long and 51.8 inches wide, compared to the Honda Ridgeline’s cargo bed, which is 54.0 inches long and 45.3 inches wide.
3. Does the Honda Ridgeline offer a hybrid powertrain option?
No, the Honda Ridgeline does not currently offer a hybrid powertrain option.
4. Which vehicle has a higher towing capacity?
The Ford Ranger has a higher towing capacity of 7,500 pounds compared to the Honda Ridgeline‘s towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.
5. Does the Ford Ranger offer a diesel engine option?
Yes, the Ford Ranger offers a 3.0-liter Power Stroke turbo-diesel V6 engine as an option, providing impressive torque and fuel efficiency.