2022 Honda Ridgeline vs 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The 2022 Honda Ridgeline was built on a unibody platform, setting it apart from the traditional body-on-frame construction of most pickup trucks. This design choice, similar to that of crossovers like the Honda Pilot and Passport, provided increased rigidity. Despite its innovative engineering, the Ridgeline's styling remained conservative, with a snub nose hinting at its front-wheel-drive origins. The rear maintained a classic pickup look, featuring vertical taillights and dual exhausts. The Black Edition test vehicle showcased a sleek, dark exterior with Berlina Black paint and matching alloy wheels. Inside, the Ridgeline offered a straightforward design with high-quality fit and finish, leather upholstery, and heated seats. However, the piano black trim was prone to smudges and scratches.

The 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 presented a bold and aggressive design, with small headlights and a distinctive grille. While some might have found the styling over-the-top, it aligned with Chevrolet's current vehicle portfolio. Various appearance packages, such as the Rally Edition and Redline Edition, added visual flair. The Silverado's cabin was functional, with controls conveniently placed. Depending on the trim, the interior ranged from basic to high-tech, with the WT and Custom trims retaining pre-facelift features. Higher trims boasted a modern dash with a large touchscreen. The Silverado offered a range of trims, from the work-oriented WT to the luxury-level High Country, each with unique features and capabilities.

The 2022 Honda Ridgeline was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. Its towing capacity was capped at 2,267 kilograms (5,000 pounds), with a payload capacity of up to 690 kilograms (1,500 pounds) for certain trims. While these figures were modest compared to competitors, the Ridgeline excelled in ride quality and handling, thanks to its unibody platform and fully independent suspension. However, its off-road capabilities were limited by its design and ground clearance.

The 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 offered a range of engine options, starting with a turbocharged 2.7-litre four-cylinder producing 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque. V8 options included a 5.3-litre engine with 355 hp and 383 lb-ft, and a 6.2-litre engine with 420 hp and 460 lb-ft. A six-cylinder Duramax turbodiesel was also available, delivering 305 hp and 495 lb-ft. The Silverado's towing capacity reached up to 6,000 kilograms (13,300 pounds) with the 6.2-litre V8 and Max Towing package. The truck handled well for its size, with the Trail Boss trim excelling off-road. The Silverado's range of engines and trims provided versatility for various needs.

The 2022 Honda Ridgeline was available only as a four-door crew cab with a 162.5-centimetre (64-inch) bed, offering a balance of passenger and cargo space. The bed featured a 207-litre lockable in-bed trunk, a spare tire slot, and an in-bed audio system. The Dual-Action Tailgate and wide bed allowed for versatile cargo handling. Inside, the Ridgeline provided ample storage, with a pushbutton shifter freeing up space for cupholders and a large centre console. While headroom and legroom were average, the cabin felt spacious due to its wider stance and lower cowl height.

The 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 offered multiple body styles, including regular, double, and crew cabs, with bed lengths ranging from 1,776 millimetres (5 feet 8 inches) to 2,494 mm (8 feet). The regular cab was suited for work-focused trims, while the double cab provided easy rear seat access with conventional doors. The crew cab offered generous headroom and legroom, with a fold-up rear bench for additional cargo space. The Silverado's interior configurations catered to various needs, from work to family use.

The 2022 Honda Ridgeline came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and Bluetooth connectivity. While the interface was not cutting-edge, it was user-friendly, with analog controls for essential functions. Higher trims offered SiriusXM satellite radio and navigation, but the system lacked unique features compared to rivals.

The 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500's base infotainment setup included a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims featured a 13.4-inch touchscreen with wireless connectivity and a fully digital instrument panel. The LTZ trim added wireless device charging and additional USB ports. The Silverado's infotainment options ranged from basic to advanced, catering to different preferences.

The 2022 Honda Ridgeline received top scores in most IIHS crash tests, with a "Superior" rating for front-crash prevention. However, it scored "Average" in the passenger-side small overlap test and "Marginal" for headlights. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating. Standard safety features included the Honda Sensing suite, with additional features like blind spot monitoring available in Canada.

The 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 came with standard safety features such as automatic emergency braking and lane keep assist. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring, a 360-degree camera system, and GM's Super Cruise. The NHTSA gave the Silverado a five-star overall safety rating, and the IIHS provided high crash test scores.