2023 Honda Ridgeline vs 2022 RAM 1500

The 2022 RAM 1500 was available in both Quad Cab and Crew Cab styles, offering a standard 6-foot, 4-inch cargo box, with a shorter 5-foot, 7-inch box option for Crew Cab models. Canadian buyers could choose from eight trim levels, ranging from the basic Tradesman to the high-performance TRX. The model year introduced the next-generation Uconnect 5 infotainment system, available on lower trims and standard on higher ones, featuring an 8.4-inch or 12-inch touchscreen display. The new Trailer Hitch Light feature, part of the Trailer Tow Group, improved visibility after dark. The Limited trim test truck came with a turbodiesel engine, 4WD, and a host of luxury features, including a Limited 10th Anniversary Edition package with premium leather upholstery and a 19-speaker sound system. The RAM 1500's design was clean and contemporary, with a luxurious interior that exuded quality, thanks to its high-end materials and construction.

The 2023 Honda Ridgeline, with its updated styling from a few years prior, featured a rugged appearance with LED lighting and larger dual exhaust outlets. It was available in four trims, all equipped with a V6 engine, a nine-speed automatic transmission, and a torque-vectoring AWD system. The Black Edition test vehicle came with Platinum White Pearl paint and 18-inch black alloy wheels. The Ridgeline shared its platform with the Honda Passport SUV, offering a refined and sophisticated driving experience. Its interior was comfortable and well-designed, with quality materials and ample storage. The Ridgeline's unibody construction limited its towing capacity to 2,268 kilograms, but it excelled in daily-driving practicality with features like a dual-action tailgate and in-bed trunk.

The 2022 RAM 1500 offered a range of engines, including a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 with a mild-hybrid system, a 5.7-litre Hemi V8, and a supercharged 6.2-litre V8 for the TRX model. The test truck featured the EcoDiesel engine, a turbocharged 3.0-litre diesel V6 producing 260 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It had a towing capacity of up to 5,697 kilograms, with the test truck managing 4,354 kilograms. The RAM 1500's fuel consumption was estimated at 9.7 L/100 km, with the test achieving 9.5 L/100 km. The truck's coil-spring rear suspension and optional air suspension provided a smooth ride, while the interior remained quiet and comfortable. However, the brake pedal could be challenging to modulate.

The 2023 Honda Ridgeline shared its platform with the Honda Passport, featuring a 3.5-litre VTEC V6 engine with 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It had a nine-speed automatic transmission and a torque-vectoring AWD system. The Ridgeline's unibody construction limited its towing capacity to 2,268 kilograms, but it offered a competitive 694-kilogram payload capacity. The Ridgeline excelled in driving dynamics, with a comfortable and quiet ride on highways and nimble handling in city traffic. It averaged 10.4 L/100 km on a road trip, with official ratings of 11.5 L/100 km in combined driving and 9.9 on the highway. The Ridgeline's steering felt heavy at lower speeds, but overall, it provided a refined driving experience.

The 2022 RAM 1500 featured power-deploying running boards, heated and ventilated seats, and a spacious interior with ample storage. The multi-function tailgate could support 900 kilograms and offered versatile loading options. The RAM 1500's cabin was luxurious, with high-quality materials and a comfortable seating arrangement. The test vehicle did not include RamBox storage bins, but the interior offered practical storage solutions.

The 2023 Honda Ridgeline prioritized function with features like a dual-action tailgate, in-bed trunk, and ample interior storage. The Ridgeline's interior was comfortable, with power-adjustable seats and a heated steering wheel. The rear seat offered a high seating position and rear air conditioning vents. The truck bed was impressive, with a flat floor and standard tie-down cleats. The Ridgeline also offered a lockable, weatherproof trunk with a drain plug, adding to its practicality.

The 2022 RAM 1500 introduced the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering faster loading times and improved features. The test vehicle had a 12-inch touchscreen display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and a 19-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. The system's complexity posed some user experience challenges, but it represented an improvement over previous versions. Additional tech options included a head-up display, digital rearview camera mirror, and trailer-specific technology.

The 2023 Honda Ridgeline's infotainment system was dated, with an 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. The system loaded slowly, and the voice recognition system had delayed responses. The user interface was simple, but the lack of a tuning knob and cluttered navigation display were drawbacks. The Ridgeline's technology needed an overhaul, but it was functional for basic needs.

The 2022 RAM 1500 offered driver-assist features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims included automatic high-beam headlights, forward-collision warning, and a surround-view camera. The test truck had rear parking sensors and a rear automatic braking system, which proved incompatible with some driveways. The RAM 1500 received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Honda Ridgeline came with Honda Sensing, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard in Canada. The adaptive cruise control system struggled to maintain a safe following distance, but the technology was generally effective. The Ridgeline received favourable crash-test ratings from the IIHS and top marks from the NHTSA, with a four-star rollover resistance rating.