2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty vs 2021 Honda Ridgeline

The 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty was a robust and imposing vehicle, taking the muscular design of the F-150 to a more substantial level. Its heavy-duty appearance was not just for aesthetics; it was built to handle tough terrains and demanding job sites. The truck featured long bed lengths for enhanced cargo capacity and a tall ride height for improved ground clearance. Its exterior was marked by large grilles, heavy-duty bumpers, and durable bodywork, making it suitable for daily rigorous use. Inside, the cabin varied from basic and utilitarian in the lower trims to luxurious in the higher trims, with options for leather upholstery and upscale finishes.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda Ridgeline was redesigned to emphasize a more traditional truck appearance, with a long, flat hood and aggressive front end. It featured new wheel designs and an optional Honda Performance Division (HPD) Package that added unique styling elements. The Ridgeline was available in several trims, each offering a range of features from cloth seats in the Sport trim to leather and power-adjustable seats in higher trims. The interior was functional, with ample storage and easy-to-clean surfaces, making it a practical choice for everyday use.

The 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty offered three powerful engine options. The base 6.2-liter V8 produced 385 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque, while an available 7.3-liter V8 delivered 430 horsepower and 475 pound-feet of torque. The most robust option was the 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel engine, generating 475 horsepower and an impressive 1,050 pound-feet of torque. All engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Super Duty trucks came standard with rear-wheel drive, with an option for four-wheel drive. They boasted a maximum payload capacity of up to 4,060 pounds and a towing capacity exceeding 36,000 pounds with a gooseneck setup. The Tremor models offered enhanced off-road capabilities with factory lift kits and beefy tires.

The 2021 Honda Ridgeline was equipped with a 280-horsepower V6 engine, producing 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Ridgeline featured standard all-wheel drive with Intelligent Variable Torque Management, capable of directing up to 70% of power to a single rear wheel. It included Intelligent Traction Management with settings for Snow, Sand, and Mud, though it was not designed for rock-crawling. The Ridgeline offered a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds and a payload rating of 1,583 pounds. Its unibody architecture and independent rear suspension provided a smooth and athletic driving experience, making it enjoyable on paved roads.

The 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty, despite its utilitarian focus, offered a range of creature comforts. The standard 40/20/40 folding bench front seats provided comfort and functionality, while Crew Cab and Super Cab models offered spacious rear seating. However, the truck's large size made it challenging to maneuver in tight spaces, and its tall ride height could complicate entry and exit. The Super Duty featured a clever tailgate design with optional steps and a handle for easier bed access.

The 2021 Honda Ridgeline excelled in comfort and functionality, offering a roomy interior with manually-adjustable front seats and a spacious rear seat. Higher trims included leather seats, heated front seats, and a power sunroof. The Ridgeline's utility was enhanced by a large center storage console, numerous storage compartments, and a composite cargo bed with tie-down hooks. Its dual-action tailgate and in-bed trunk added convenience, making it a versatile choice for various needs.

The 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty featured Ford's Sync 3 infotainment system, known for its intuitive interface. The base XL trim had a non-touch display, while higher trims offered a larger touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Additional tech options included a WiFi hotspot, upgraded audio systems, and adjustable upfitter switches. Diesel-equipped models could be fitted with a rapid heating unit for quick cabin warmth.

The 2021 Honda Ridgeline came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims added features like SiriusXM, HD Radio, navigation, and a premium sound system. While the Sport trim lacked these upgrades, it still provided essential connectivity options. The Ridgeline's technology was straightforward, offering a refreshingly analog experience compared to its competitors.

The 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty offered a range of safety features, though many were available as upgrades or on higher trims. Options included a trailer tow package with special camera views, Pro Trailer Backup Assist, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. As a commercial vehicle, the Super Duty was not crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2021 Honda Ridgeline came standard with Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced driving assistance systems. It included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The Ridgeline also featured a multi-angle reversing camera and, in higher trims, blind-spot warning and automatic high-beam headlights. Built to Honda's Advanced Compatibility Engineering standards, the Ridgeline earned high safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS in previous models.