2024 Honda Ridgeline vs 2023 Toyota Tundra

The 2023 Toyota Tundra was a behemoth of a truck, immediately striking with its massive grille and interlocking design elements that gave it a cohesive and robust appearance. The Tundra's design was purposeful, with slim, high-mounted headlights and a character line that added visual length. The rear featured a three-dimensional stamped design, and the truck was available in ten different trim levels in Canada, offering a variety of features and styles. The interior was spacious and comfortable, with expansive seats and a 14-inch touchscreen on higher trims, providing a blend of modern technology and comfort.

In contrast, the 2024 Honda Ridgeline, while not traditionally a head-turner, had undergone styling changes that gave it more presence. The blunt nose, tall hood, and new tailgate lettering helped it fit in better with its peers. The interior was redesigned with a new centre console and a 7-inch digital instrumentation panel, making it feel more like a proper pickup. The Ridgeline was available in three trims in Canada, all equipped with a 280-horsepower V6 engine and torque-vectoring AWD. The TrailSport trim added off-road capabilities, although the Ridgeline excelled more on-road with its smooth powertrain and comfortable ride.

The 2023 Toyota Tundra offered two engine choices, both featuring six cylinders. The standard 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 produced 389 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, while the Tundra Hybrid's i-FORCE MAX engine delivered an impressive 437 hp and 583 lb-ft. A 10-speed automatic transmission ensured smooth power delivery, and the multi-link rear suspension improved ride quality. The Tundra's towing capacity was 5,045 kilograms, with a payload capacity of 880 kilograms. The TRD Pro trim was equipped for off-road adventures with a lift, Fox shocks, and a multi-terrain system, although its large size could be a limitation on narrow trails.

The 2024 Honda Ridgeline featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine with 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, with a payload capacity of 687 kilograms. While its off-road capabilities were limited by shallow approach angles and ground clearance, the Ridgeline excelled on-road with its smooth powertrain and comfortable ride. The automatic transmission had some quirks, and fuel economy was higher than expected at 14.5 litres per 100 kilometres.

The 2023 Toyota Tundra's interior was designed with practicality in mind, featuring large physical controls and a spacious layout. The centre console included a wireless charging pad and ample storage, while the rear seats offered plenty of space for passengers and additional storage when flipped up. The Tundra was available in various configurations, with different bed lengths to suit different needs.

The 2024 Honda Ridgeline prioritized comfort and practicality, with easy entry and supportive seats. The TrailSport trim featured perforated leather upholstery and heated seats, while the rear seats offered adequate legroom and a triple-zone climate control system. The Ridgeline's interior was filled with storage options, and the cargo bed included a weatherproof trunk with a drain plug, perfect for various uses.

The 2023 Toyota Tundra featured an 8-inch touchscreen on lower trims, with a 14-inch screen available on higher trims. The infotainment system was a significant improvement, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 12-speaker audio system on higher trims. A 12.3-inch digital instrument panel added to the technological appeal.

The 2024 Honda Ridgeline came with a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, updated with a faster processor and new graphics. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and smartphone charging were standard, along with a seven-speaker stereo. The infotainment system was user-friendly, and the instrumentation included a 7-inch digital display.

The 2023 Toyota Tundra was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available but not standard. The Tundra received a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS for CrewMax models.

The 2024 Honda Ridgeline featured the Honda Sensing suite, with forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on the Sport trim. The Ridgeline received an Acceptable rating from the IIHS for small overlap frontal-impact tests but was rated five stars by the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating.