2023 Honda Ridgeline vs 2024 GMC Canyon

The 2023 Honda Ridgeline had undergone a styling update a few years prior, which included a new front end with bolder details, larger dual exhaust outlets, and more appealing wheels with aggressive tread design. These changes gave it a more rugged appearance, although the optional Honda Performance Development (HPD) packages with oversized fender flares were best avoided. The Ridgeline was available in four trims: Sport, RTL, RTL-E, and Black Edition, all equipped with a V6 engine, nine-speed automatic transmission, and torque-vectoring AWD. Prices ranged from $38,800 to $46,230, excluding destination charges. The Black Edition test vehicle, with additional features, had an MSRP of $49,866. Despite its higher price, the Ridgeline offered refinement and sophistication, sharing many features with the Honda Passport SUV. Its interior, though dating back to the 2016 Honda Pilot, was modern, upscale, and technologically advanced compared to rivals.

The 2024 GMC Canyon was noted for its impressive size, standing taller than its competitors like the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger. It shared parts with the Chevrolet Colorado but boasted a wider track and at least 9.6 inches of ground clearance. The Canyon was available in four trims: Elevation, AT4, Denali, and AT4X, each catering to different needs from work to luxury and off-road capabilities. The AT4X test vehicle featured the AEV package, which included 35-inch all-terrain tires, beadlock-capable wheels, and multiple steel skid plates, enhancing its off-road prowess. The Canyon's interior, especially in higher trims, was high-quality and comfortable, with features like dual-zone climate control and an 11-inch digital gauge cluster. However, rear-seat legroom was limited, and the 5.2-foot bed offered less cargo capacity compared to some rivals.

The 2023 Honda Ridgeline shared its platform with the Honda Passport, offering a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Its nine-speed automatic transmission and torque-vectoring AWD provided sophisticated driving dynamics, especially on pavement. The Ridgeline had a payload capacity of 1,583 pounds and a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, limited by its unibody construction. It averaged 22.6 mpg on a road trip, with official EPA ratings of 21 mpg combined and 24 mpg highway. The Ridgeline excelled in ride and handling, with a supple city ride and SUV-like highway driving. However, its steering felt heavy at lower speeds.

The 2024 GMC Canyon featured a 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque, making it powerful for its class. It had a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,670 pounds, surpassing its predecessor. The Canyon's eight-speed automatic transmission complemented the engine, and its ride was smooth, thanks to Multimatic spool-valve dampers. The AT4X trim included a Baja drive mode for high-speed off-road driving. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, with the AT4X AEV tester recording 13.5 mpg.

The 2023 Honda Ridgeline prioritized function with features like shelves in the front door panels, a giant storage console, a dual-action tailgate, and an in-bed trunk. Its interior, similar to the Honda Passport, offered comfortable seats and practical storage solutions. The rear seat was less spacious than the Passport, but the seat cushion flipped up for additional cargo space. The Ridgeline's 64-inch cargo bed was impressive, with a dual-action tailgate and a flat, scratch-resistant composite floor. It also featured a lockable, weatherproof 7.3 cubic-foot trunk under the load floor.

The 2024 GMC Canyon excelled in towing capacity but struggled with interior space. The crew cab configuration offered limited rear-seat legroom, and the 5.2-foot bed had less cargo capacity than some rivals. The AEV package further reduced usable space with a spare tire. The Canyon's width and height made urban driving challenging, and its lack of a digital rearview mirror was a drawback.

The 2023 Honda Ridgeline's infotainment system was dated, with an 8-inch touchscreen, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and basic HondaLink services. Higher trims included navigation, a premium sound system, and wireless smartphone charging, though the latter was unreliable. The system's interface was simple but lacked modern design standards, and voice recognition was slow.

The 2024 GMC Canyon featured an 11.3-inch touchscreen with Google Built-in, offering apps like Google Maps and Google Assistant without needing a phone. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay were also included. The infotainment system had quirks, such as headlight controls embedded in the software. Higher trims benefited from a head-up display and off-road performance display pages.

The 2023 Honda Ridgeline's safety features were aging, with standard Honda Sensing tech lacking blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert on lower trims. The Black Edition had all available safety features, but adaptive cruise control struggled to maintain a safe following distance. The Ridgeline received favorable crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2024 GMC Canyon received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with five stars for side-impact tests. It came standard with automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and a rear-seat reminder. However, advanced driver assist systems were optional on lower trims. The AT4X trim included a surround-view camera and blind-spot avoidance with a trailer.