2022 Honda Ridgeline vs 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD, redesigned for the 2020 model year, boasted a bold exterior with a tall hood, squared-off lines, and a massive grille, giving it a commanding presence. While its exterior design was considered one of the better-looking heavy-duty trucks, the interior had some shortcomings. The material quality, especially in top trims, didn't match the standards set by competitors like Ram and Ford. Although spacious, the cabin wasn't as roomy as the Ram 1500 or Ford Super Duty. The Sierra 2500HD was available in five trim levels, each offering a distinct look and feel, with options for regular, extended, and crew cab body styles. The AT4 trim, which we tested, featured off-road-focused elements and luxurious touches, making it a rugged yet handsome package.

In contrast, the 2022 Honda Ridgeline, built on a unibody platform, offered increased rigidity compared to traditional body-on-frame trucks. Its styling was conservative, with a snub nose hinting at its crossover roots. The Ridgeline's front-end styling was updated in 2021 to appear more truck-like. Our Black Edition test vehicle featured Berlina Black paint and matching alloy wheels, creating a sleek appearance. Inside, the Ridgeline's no-nonsense design was complemented by high-quality fit and finish. The Black Edition was well-equipped with leather upholstery, heated seats, and a moonroof, though the piano black trim was prone to smudging. Overall, the Ridgeline's interior was practical and comfortable, with a focus on functionality.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD was equipped with a powerful 6.6-litre V8 engine, available in both gas and turbodiesel variants. The Duramax diesel engine produced 445 horsepower and 910 pound-feet of torque, paired with an Allison 10-speed automatic transmission. Despite its impressive power, the Sierra 2500HD was not the most capable in its class, with competitors like the Ford F-250 Super Duty and Ram 2500 offering higher towing capacities. Our test truck, equipped with the Duramax diesel, demonstrated abundant power, requiring a firm brake pedal when shifting out of Park. The Sierra 2500HD felt quick for its size, though the ride was jittery on uneven pavement. The AT4 trim excelled in off-road conditions, thanks to its off-road equipment and suspension.

The 2022 Honda Ridgeline featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine with 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. While its towing capacity of 2,267 kilograms was modest compared to other midsize pickups, the Ridgeline's naturally aspirated V6 provided sufficient power. However, the transmission was slow to respond, and the engine start-stop system was sluggish. The Ridgeline's unibody platform offered a comfortable ride and precise handling, akin to a luxury car. Its off-road capability was limited compared to traditional 4WD systems, but the Ridgeline could still handle light off-road conditions.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD offered three cab configurations, two bed lengths, and available 4WD, making it a highly functional truck. It could seat up to six passengers, with ample space in both front and rear seats. The AT4 package added extra lift, requiring some effort to enter the truck. The Sierra 2500HD featured convenient storage options, including a wide centre console, dual glove boxes, and hidden storage compartments. The MultiPro tailgate offered six functions for improved cargo access, and the truck was equipped with multiple power outlets and USB ports for added convenience.

The 2022 Honda Ridgeline was available only with a four-door crew cab and a 162.5-centimetre bed, providing a balance of passenger and cargo space. The bed featured a 207-litre lockable in-bed trunk with a drain plug, a spare tire slot, and an in-bed audio system. The Dual-Action Tailgate could open down or to the side, and the bed was wide enough to carry 4-foot-wide sheets of plywood. Inside, the Ridgeline offered additional storage under the rear seats, with USB ports available on higher trims. The cabin layout was practical, with a pushbutton shifter, large centre console, and easy-to-use controls.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD offered a range of infotainment systems, with either a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, depending on the trim. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard on SLT and above, with navigation available on higher trims. The Bose premium audio system provided rich sound, though the voice-recognition system occasionally delivered odd results. The Sierra 2500HD featured 15 camera views, including a "transparent trailer" view, and a standard rear camera mirror for improved visibility.

The 2022 Honda Ridgeline came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, including Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity and Bluetooth. SiriusXM satellite radio was available on all but the base trim, with navigation on higher trims. While the interface was not cutting-edge, it was easy to navigate, with analog controls for vital functions. The Ridgeline's infotainment system was functional, though not particularly advanced compared to competitors.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD offered a range of safety and driver-assistive features, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision alert, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Teen Driver system was standard, allowing parents to monitor their teen's driving habits. Due to its high GVWR, the Sierra 2500HD was not rated by NHTSA or IIHS, but its mass provided a level of safety in collisions.

The 2022 Honda Ridgeline received top scores in most IIHS crash tests, with a "Superior" rating for front-crash prevention tech. NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating. The Ridgeline came standard with Honda Sensing, including automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. Blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard in Canada, though a 360-degree camera system was not available.