2024 Honda Ridgeline vs 2023 RAM 1500

The 2023 RAM 1500, available in both quad cab and larger crew cab configurations, offered a versatile choice between a 6-foot, 4-inch bed and a 5-foot, 7-inch bed. The Limited trim, near the top of the eight available trims, featured a $4,145 Night Edition option that replaced chrome accents with a stealthy blacked-out grille, badging, headlamp bezels, mirror caps, and 22-inch black aluminum wheels. Inside, the Limited trim boasted luxurious leather with contrasting stitching, open-pore wood on the dash, and a 12-inch portrait-oriented screen that added a unique touch to the interior.

In contrast, the 2024 Honda Ridgeline, still in its second generation, received styling updates that gave it a more commanding presence. The blunt nose, tall hood, and new tailgate lettering helped it blend in better with traditional trucks, while the TrailSport trim added all-terrain tires for a tougher look. Inside, a redesigned center console with a wide armrest and a 7-inch digital instrumentation panel enhanced the truck's practicality and modern feel. The new 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, along with a new brown leather option in the RTL trim, further improved the interior experience.

The 2023 RAM 1500 offered a range of engine options, including a 3.6-liter V6 with eTorque, a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 with eTorque, and a 3.0-liter diesel engine. The top TRX trim featured a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine. The V8 with eTorque produced 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, providing strong acceleration and smooth highway passing. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifted seamlessly, and the truck's coilover rear suspension and optional air suspension ensured a smooth ride. The RAM 1500 had a maximum towing capacity of 12,750 pounds and a payload capacity of up to 2,300 pounds, depending on the configuration.

The 2024 Honda Ridgeline, powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and Honda's i-VTM4 AWD system. The Ridgeline's towing capacity was 5,000 pounds, and its maximum payload capacity was 1,583 pounds. While its off-road capabilities were limited by shallow approach, breakover, and departure angles, the Ridgeline excelled on-road with its smooth powertrain, responsive handling, and quiet cabin. The TrailSport trim's off-road suspension felt firmer on pavement, and the all-terrain tires emitted a faint whir at speed. The Ridgeline's fuel economy averaged 19.4 mpg, slightly below the EPA rating of 20 mpg combined.

The 2023 RAM 1500's interior featured numerous storage options, including a two-tiered center console and a spacious center console that could accommodate a laptop, purse, and snacks. The front seats were heated and cooled, with eight-way power adjustments, and the rear seats reclined up to eight degrees, offering 45.2 inches of legroom in the crew cab. The multifunction tailgate and RamBox storage system added practicality, making it easy to load cargo and keep tools secure.

The 2024 Honda Ridgeline prioritized comfort and practicality, with easy entry and exit, supportive seats, and ample legroom for rear passengers. The TrailSport trim included perforated leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The rear seats offered enough legroom to prevent complaints, and the triple-zone climate control system added to passenger comfort. The Ridgeline's cargo bed featured a weatherproof and locking trunk with 7.3 cubic feet of space, perfect for tailgate parties or storing wet gear. The dual-action tailgate provided practical curb-side loading options.

The 2023 RAM 1500 featured a new reconfigurable 12-inch gauge cluster, although it was not available on the test model. The upper trims offered a 12-inch portrait-oriented infotainment screen, allowing for dual-function display and Bluetooth connectivity for two phones. The Uconnect system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though there was some lag with Apple CarPlay. The optional Equipment Group 1 added a head-up display, digital rearview mirror, and surround-view camera system. Multiple USB-A and -C outlets, a wireless charging pad, and various power outlets ensured all devices could be charged on the go.

The 2024 Honda Ridgeline came standard with a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring a faster processor, new graphics, and simplified menus. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and smartphone charging were standard, along with a seven-speaker stereo. The Black Edition trim included HD Radio, extra USB ports, and an eight-speaker premium sound system. The 7-inch digital display in the gauge cluster provided easy-to-use information, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2023 RAM 1500 lacked standard advanced driver-assist systems, with features like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning available as options or in packages. The NHTSA awarded the RAM 1500 crew cab a five-star overall safety rating, while the IIHS gave it Good marks in most categories, with Marginal grades for seat belt reminders and LATCH ease of use.

The 2024 Honda Ridgeline Sport added standard blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, joining the Honda Sensing suite of safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, lane-centering assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high-beam headlights. While the ADAS performed adequately, it was not as smooth as expected. The IIHS rated the Ridgeline Acceptable in the small overlap frontal-impact test and Marginal for headlights. The NHTSA awarded the Ridgeline five-star ratings in all categories except rollover resistance, where it received four stars.