2022 Honda Ridgeline vs 2023 GMC Sierra 1500

The 2022 Honda Ridgeline, with its unibody platform, offered a unique take on pickup truck construction, providing increased rigidity compared to traditional body-on-frame designs. Despite its innovative engineering, the Ridgeline's styling remained conservative, with a snub nose hinting at its crossover roots. 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's no-nonsense design was complemented by high-quality fit and finish, leather upholstery, and heated seats. However, the piano black trim was prone to smudging and didn't stand out against the predominantly black interior.

In contrast, the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 received a styling update in 2022, enhancing its already impressive design with a wider grille and updated headlights. While the exterior changes were subtle, the interior saw a significant transformation, aligning more with the trend of making truck cabins resemble those of daily driver cars and SUVs. The new dash featured a large screen, moving away from the simpler layout of its predecessor. The updated infotainment system, while more complex, retained traditional climate controls and a volume dial. The Sierra offered various trims, each with distinct features, from the base Pro with a 7-inch touchscreen to the luxurious Denali Ultimate, which boasted a Kicker sound system, full-grain leather, and massaging front seats.

The 2022 Honda Ridgeline was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. It had a maximum towing capacity of 2,267 kilograms and a payload capacity ranging from 674 to 690 kilograms, depending on the trim. While these figures were modest compared to other midsize pickups, the Ridgeline excelled in handling and ride quality, thanks to its unibody platform and fully independent suspension. However, its off-road capabilities were limited by its design and lower ground clearance.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 offered four powertrain options, including a 2.7-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.0-litre Duramax turbocharged inline-six diesel engine with 305 horsepower and 495 pound-feet of torque. Two V8 options were also available, with the 6.2-litre V8 delivering 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. The Sierra's towing capacity reached up to 5,987 kilograms, with a maximum payload capacity of 1,093 kilograms. The diesel engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided a lively driving experience, while the Sierra's steering and braking were well-weighted and responsive. Despite its size, the Sierra handled corners well, though maneuverability in tight spaces was challenging.

The 2022 Honda Ridgeline was available only in a four-door crew cab configuration with a 162.5-centimetre 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 additional storage under the rear seats and a well-organized front cabin with a pushbutton shifter, cupholders, and a large centre console.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 offered various cab and bed configurations, with our test model featuring a crew cab and short bed. The spacious cabin provided ample head and legroom, with large storage trays and multiple compartments for convenience. The MultiPro tailgate offered multiple configurations, including a bed step-up and fold-out workstation. Bed steps in the rear bumper provided easy access to the cargo area. The Sierra's interior was designed for practicality, with a deep centre storage compartment and fold-up rear bench for secure storage.

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

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 featured a 7-inch touchscreen in the base Pro trim, while other trims received a 13.4-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The updated infotainment system included Google-connected apps and a logical layout with large icons. The Denali Ultimate trim offered a wireless charging pad, USB ports, and a wall-style power outlet. A 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a head-up display were also available on higher trims.

The 2022 Honda Ridgeline received top scores in most IIHS crash tests, with a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with the Honda Sensing suite of driver aids, including automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. However, it lacked a 360-degree camera system.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 came standard with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane keep assist. Higher trims offered additional features like blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera system. The Denali Ultimate trim included GM's Super Cruise driver assist system for hands-free highway driving. The Sierra also featured a rear-vision camera mirror for enhanced visibility.