2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 vs 2023 Honda Ridgeline

The 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 underwent significant updates mid-year that included aesthetic enhancements to the grille, bumper, and wheel designs, propelling its rugged appeal. This pickup wasn't just about looks; it also boasted improved utility with its MultiFlex tailgate and high-clearance steps designed for off-roading scenarios. As tastes vary, some might find the updated aesthetics polarizing, but undeniable improvements in the interior with better materials and higher-tech offerings mark its gravitas. Conversely, the 2023 Honda Ridgeline showcased a bold, refreshed facade from its update a couple of years prior. It presented a refined yet rugged look suited for those who appreciate a blend of sophistication in a utility vehicle. Its unibody construction, closer in spirit to a crossover SUV, translates into a smoother and effortless entry, compared to the more hefty ladder-frame constructions typically seen in pickups like the Silverado. The Ridgeline's dual-action tailgate and in-bed trunk emphasize practicality aligned with everyday usability.

The Silverado 1500, especially in its ZR2 variant, came ready for unforgiving terrains with a 420 horsepower, 6.2-liter V8 engine. Equipped with advanced off-road tech including Multimatic dampers and substantial ground clearance, it was decidedly robust though not the most expedient in fuel economy or towing compared to some rivals. The Ridgeline, with its 280 horsepower V6, optimal for highway and city driving, lacks the raw power and tow capacity of the Silverado; it caps at 5,000 pounds towing capability. However, it provides a noticeably smoother ride thanks to the shared platform with Honda's SUVs, making it feel less like a truck and more like a premium SUV on the roads—a clear advantage for daily drivers not requiring intense off-road engagements or hefty towing.

Interior space in the Silverado was generous with upgrades enhancing both comfort and utility—evident from its robust cargo solutions to the spacious cabin embellished with quality materials. The functional design extended to its bed, engineered for varied load-carrying demands. The Ridgeline also scored high in terms of interior functionality with comparable front cabin comfort, though with less cargo versatility. Its unique selling proposition was its in-bed trunk and the convenience of a dual-action tailgate, which squared it away as a more suitable option for light-duty tasks and urban utility.

Chevrolet's introduction of larger screens and more intuitive interfaces marked an appreciable step forward for the Silverado, though some aspects of interaction with the system required acclimatization. The inclusion of advanced safety and connectivity features matched the needs of a contemporary audience. Honda's Ridgeline, still utilizing an infotainment system rooted in designs from the mid-2010s, fell slightly behind in technological aspects. The system, although functional, showed signs of aging particularly in the speed of operation and interface design. There’s a clear scope for improvement here, especially to match new competitors in the market.

Chevrolet has equipped the Silverado with a comprehensive suite of safety features, setting a solid standard in the active safety domain though blind-spot monitoring remained an optional extra except on higher trims. The addition of Super Cruise in the High Country variant provided a glimpse into the potential future of hands-free driving on selected highways. On the other hand, Ridgeline maintained a competent array of safety features but lacked the refinement seen in newer Honda models. The inclusion of all essential driver assists from adaptive cruise control to lane-keeping supports maintains its competitive edge, notwithstanding the need for modernization.