2021 RAM 1500 vs 2021 Honda Ridgeline

The 2021 RAM 1500, a carryover model from its 2019 redesign, maintained its robust design with no new cosmetic changes. It offered configurations of quad cab or crew cab models, with bed lengths of either five-foot, seven-inch or six-foot, four-inch, and options for rear-wheel or four-wheel drive. The standout for 2021 was the all-new TRX model, inspired by off-road rally races, featuring a commanding presence with a functioning hood scoop, massive grille, and fender vents. The TRX was a crew cab-only 4x4 with a smaller 5-foot, 7-inch box, sitting on a 3,685.5 mm wheelbase, and was notably wider and taller than the standard Ram 1500. It was equipped with large 35-inch all-terrain tires and distinctive TRX badging, while the interior offered first-class comfort with premium materials and a 12-inch Uconnect infotainment display.

The 2021 Honda Ridgeline underwent a redesign forward of the windshield and front doors, featuring a new rear bumper with exposed dual exhaust outlets and more aggressive tire treads. It came in Sport, EX-L, Touring, and Black Edition trims, with pricing from $44,355 to $53,355. The Ridgeline was powered by a 280-horsepower V6 engine with standard torque-vectoring all-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic transmission. Its interior, modeled after the Honda Pilot SUV, emphasized functionality with generous storage and hard plastic surfaces for easy cleaning. The Ridgeline's design focused on comfort and utility, making it a practical choice for those not requiring heavy-duty towing or off-roading capabilities.

The 2021 RAM 1500 TRX was equipped with a 6.2-litre supercharged Hemi V8 engine, delivering 702 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It boasted a payload capacity of 594 kg and a maximum towing capability of 3,674 kg. The TRX could accelerate to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds and had a top speed of 190 km/h. It featured eight on- and off-road drive modes, including a Baja mode, and a segment-exclusive four-corner air suspension. The TRX excelled in various driving scenarios, from city commutes to off-road adventures, offering a thrilling driving experience with its powerful engine and advanced suspension system.

The 2021 Honda Ridgeline featured a 280-horsepower V6 engine with 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. It came standard with all-wheel drive and Intelligent Variable Torque Management, allowing up to 70% of the engine's power to be directed to a single rear wheel. The Ridgeline offered Intelligent Traction Management with Snow, Sand, and Mud settings, but lacked a Rock setting, reflecting its focus on flat terrain. It had a maximum towing capacity of 2,267 kg and a payload rating of 694 kg. The Ridgeline's unibody construction and independent rear suspension provided a smooth and enjoyable driving experience, making it a capable and comfortable choice for everyday use.

The 2021 RAM 1500 TRX offered identical interior dimensions to the standard Ram, with front headroom and legroom measuring 1,038 mm and 1,040 mm, and rear seats offering 1,011 mm and 1,147 mm. It featured ample storage, including a large centre storage bin, and comfortable seating with powered-adjustable pedals. The TRX's interior was designed for both functionality and comfort, with features like LED headlights and taillights, full-length rock rails, and a full-size spare tire.

The 2021 Honda Ridgeline provided a comfortable and functional interior, with a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat and 4-way power-adjustable passenger seat as standard. The rear seat was the roomiest in its class, and the Ridgeline included features like triple-zone automatic climate control, a power moonroof, and heated outboard positions. The composite cargo bed was dent- and scratch-resistant, with tie-down hooks rated for 158 kg each, and a 150-watt/400-watt power outlet and truck-bed audio system on higher trims. The Ridgeline's bed offered 960 litres of cargo space, with a power locking dual-action tailgate and a 207-litre weatherproof in-bed trunk.

The 2021 RAM 1500 featured a 12-inch touchscreen with the Uconnect 4C infotainment system, offering customizable displays, wireless charging, and smartphone integration. It included Performance Pages for vehicle calculations and Off-Road Pages for ride height and accessory gauges. The system also offered a 10-speaker Alpine audio system, with a 19-speaker Harmon Kardon package available. New for 2021 was a full-colour head-up display, customizable via the instrument cluster or touchscreen.

The 2021 Honda Ridgeline came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, including Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. It featured a seven-speaker sound system, text-messaging capability, and wireless smartphone charging. Higher trims added SiriusXM satellite radio, HD Radio, navigation, and a premium sound system. The Ridgeline's technology offerings were straightforward, focusing on essential connectivity and entertainment features.

The 2021 RAM 1500 TRX offered over 100 safety and security features, including forward collision warning and luxury-level ADAS systems. A rear backup camera was standard, with a 360-degree view available in the Advanced Safety Group package. Other available features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and pedestrian detection. Passive safety features included an auto-reverse function for windows and sunroof, and an enhanced accident response system.

The 2021 Honda Ridgeline included the Honda Sensing suite of safety features as standard, with adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. It also featured a multi-angle reversing camera and automatic high-beam headlights. The Ridgeline was built to Honda's Advanced Compatibility Engineering standards, earning high safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, although the 2021 redesign affected its small overlap front crash test score.