2020 Honda Ridgeline vs 2019 Ford F-150

When the 2019 Ford F-150 was redesigned in 2015, it grabbed attention with its twin-turbocharged EcoBoost engine and extensive use of aluminum body panels. Despite the critics from rival brands like General Motors, which mocked the use of aluminum, the material became a trend with competitors adopting it. By 2019, the F-150 had retained its visual design from the previous refresh. The F-150 offered various trim levels, each catering to different needs, from the work-focused XL with minimal features to the top-tier Limited with luxury amenities like massaging seats and a dual-panel moonroof.

The 2020 Honda Ridgeline, however, faced criticism over its design. Its appearance, which blended a minivan front with a pickup rear, failed to evoke a rugged truck image. Despite this, the Ridgeline aimed to serve those seeking a balance between comfort and utility. Honda made several updates for this model year, including a new nine-speed automatic transmission, standard Honda Sensing ADAS, and an upgraded infotainment system. The simplified lineup now included Sport, RTL, RTL-E, and Black Edition trims, with premium features in the higher trims enhancing its appeal.

The 2019 Ford F-150 introduced a 3.0-liter Power Stroke turbodiesel V6, producing 250 horsepower and 440 pound-feet of torque, with a towing capacity of up to 11,400 pounds. The F-150’s engine lineup also included a base 3.3-liter V6, a 2.7-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V6, and a 5.0-liter Coyote V8, providing a range of power options. The F-150's 10-speed automatic transmission helped optimize engine performance and efficiency. Diesel-powered models offered a fuel economy of 22 mpg city and 30 highway, making them quite efficient for a full-size truck.

In contrast, the 2020 Honda Ridgeline came equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine generating 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth performance. The Ridgeline also featured Honda’s Intelligent Variable Torque Management all-wheel-drive system, enhancing traction and stability. For towing, the Ridgeline managed up to 5,000 pounds with AWD, and it boasted a fuel economy of 21 mpg combined. While not as powerful as the F-150, the Ridgeline offered a more refined driving experience, especially on paved roads.

The 2019 Ford F-150 provided various bed and cab configurations to suit different needs, including single cab, extended SuperCab, and full SuperCrew options. The SuperCrew model we tested had ample interior space, with considerable legroom and cargo capacity within the cabin. Its rear bench could fold up, creating a substantial load floor, and the various bins and compartments added to its practicality.

The 2020 Honda Ridgeline, inspired by the Pilot, offered a comfortable cabin with plentiful in-cab storage. The Ridgeline’s composite cargo bed featured a 33.9 cubic-foot capacity and an in-bed trunk, adding 7.3 cubic feet of secure storage. The tailgate opened traditionally and also swung to the side for easier access. Compared to the F-150, the Ridgeline’s innovative storage solutions and combined comfort made it an attractive choice for those prioritizing utility with passenger comfort.

The 2019 Ford F-150's base XL trim included a basic Sync infotainment system with a 4.2-inch screen, while the XLT and higher trims featured Sync 3 with an 8-inch touchscreen, supporting Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The King Ranch trim, for example, came with added features like a Wi-Fi hotspot and a premium B&O Play sound system, ensuring a connected and enjoyable driving experience.

The 2020 Honda Ridgeline came standard with an improved Display Audio system and an 8-inch touchscreen. Although the interface lacked physical knobs and buttons, it included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims like the RTL-E provided additional features such as SiriusXM, HD Radio, and a premium sound system, though the system’s usability could be challenging due to its touch-only controls.

The 2019 Ford F-150 offered comprehensive safety features, including front- and side-impact airbags, traction control, and a reversing camera as standard. Higher trims offered a 360-degree camera system, blind-spot monitoring, and forward-collision avoidance, enhancing overall safety.

Meanwhile, the 2020 Honda Ridgeline excelled with standard Honda Sensing, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keep assist. The RTL-E and Black Edition trims added automatic high-beam headlights and blind-spot warning. The Ridgeline received impressive crash-test ratings from both IIHS and NHTSA, earning top marks in most categories.