2024 Honda Ridgeline vs 2023 RAM 1500

The 2023 RAM 1500 was available in both quad cab and crew cab configurations, with the latter offering a choice between a 6-foot, 4-inch bed or a 5-foot, 7-inch bed. The Limited trim, which was near the top of the eight available trims, featured a $3,895 Night Edition package that added a stealthy look with 22-inch black aluminum wheels, appealing to those who preferred a less shiny appearance. Inside, the Limited trim was adorned with leather, contrasting stitching, and open-pore wood on the dash, complemented by metallic trim. The 12-inch portrait-oriented screen added a unique touch to the interior, and the chunky volume controls were a practical feature. The cabin was further enhanced by a Ram logo on the dash and a Limited logo on the centre storage console, ensuring drivers never forgot which truck they were in.

In contrast, the 2024 Honda Ridgeline, while not known for its striking looks, had undergone styling changes that gave it more presence. The blunt nose, tall hood, and new tailgate lettering for 2024 helped it blend in better with other trucks. The TrailSport trim added all-terrain tires for a more rugged appearance. Inside, the Ridgeline featured a new centre console design with a wide armrest covering a large storage bin, making it feel more like a proper pickup. The 7-inch digital instrumentation panel and the 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which received numerous improvements, added to the modern feel. In Canada, the Ridgeline was available in Sport, TrailSport, and Black Edition trims, all equipped with a 280-horsepower V6 engine and torque-vectoring AWD, with prices ranging from $49,126 to $56,126.

The 2023 RAM 1500 offered a variety of drivetrain and engine options, including rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD). Engine choices ranged from a 3.6-litre V6 with eTorque to a 5.7-litre Hemi V8, and even a 3.0-litre EcoDiesel. The top TRX trim boasted a supercharged 6.2-litre V8 engine. The eTorque system provided up to 130 pound-feet of supplemental torque, enhancing fuel economy and power. The V8 engine delivered 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, making it powerful off the line. The 8-speed automatic transmission was smooth and well-matched to the engine. The RAM 1500 excelled in towing, with a maximum capacity of 5,783 kilograms and a payload of up to 1,043 kilograms. The air suspension, standard on the Limited trim, provided a smooth ride, and the 14.9-inch brake rotors ensured confident stopping power.

The 2024 Honda Ridgeline featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and Honda’s i-VTM4 AWD system. The Ridgeline's towing capacity was 2,268 kilograms, and its maximum payload was 687 kilograms. While not designed for serious off-roading, the Ridgeline excelled on the road with its smooth powertrain, quick acceleration, and responsive handling. The TrailSport's off-road suspension felt slightly firmer on pavement, and the all-terrain tires emitted a faint whir. The automatic transmission occasionally rolled when parked, requiring careful use of the parking brake. Fuel economy during testing was 14.5 litres per 100 kilometres, higher than the official rating of 11.6 L/100 km.

The 2023 RAM 1500's interior was designed with practicality in mind, featuring numerous storage cubbies and a two-tiered centre console. The front seats were heated and cooled, with eight-way adjustability, and the rear seats reclined up to eight degrees. The crew cab offered ample rear legroom at 1,148 millimetres, and the flat floor made loading cargo easy. The multifunction tailgate and RamBox storage added to the truck's versatility, making it ideal for those needing secure storage for tools.

The 2024 Honda Ridgeline prioritized comfort and practicality, with easy entry and exit and supportive seating for five. The TrailSport trim featured perforated leather upholstery, heated seats, and a heated steering wheel. The driver’s seat offered 10-way power adjustment, and the rear seats provided adequate legroom. The Ridgeline's interior was equipped with numerous storage options, including a large centre armrest, cupholders, and a flip-up rear seat cushion for additional cargo space. The 960-litre cargo bed included a weatherproof and locking trunk with 206 litres of space, perfect for tailgate parties or storing wet gear.

The 2023 RAM 1500 featured a reconfigurable 12-inch gauge cluster and a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system, allowing for dual-function display. The Uconnect system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though there was some lag with the former. The optional Equipment Group 1 added a head-up display, digital rearview mirror, and surround-view camera system. Multiple USB outlets, a wireless charging pad, and 115-volt outlets ensured devices stayed charged on the go.

The 2024 Honda Ridgeline came with a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, updated with a faster processor and improved graphics. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and smartphone charging. The Ridgeline Sport benefited from these upgrades, and the instrumentation featured a 7-inch digital display. While the screen size felt small, the system was user-friendly, with quick response times and capable voice recognition.

The 2023 RAM 1500 lacked standard advanced driver-assist systems, with features like forward collision warning and blind-spot monitoring available as options. Despite this, the NHTSA awarded the crew cab a five-star safety rating, and the IIHS gave it Good marks, except for Marginal grades for seat belt reminders and LATCH ease of use.

The 2024 Honda Ridgeline Sport included a standard blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alert, joining the Honda Sensing suite of ADAS. While the system performed adequately, it was not as smooth as expected. The Ridgeline received an Acceptable rating from the IIHS for small overlap frontal-impact tests, and its headlights were rated Marginal. The NHTSA awarded it five-star ratings, except for a four-star rating for rollover resistance.