SAFETY | 8 out of 10
With new crash-test scoring systems in place at both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the Honda Ridgeline has some good news to relay.
The IIHS says the Ridgeline is a Top Safety Pick, which means it earns "good" scores for front, side, and roof-crush protection, and also has standard stability control. The NHTSA, meanwhile, hasn't yet updated its Ridgeline ratings as of yet.
Every Honda pickup has standard dual front, side, and curtain airbags; anti-lock brakes, traction and stability control; all-wheel drive; and active head restraints. Among its safety options, the Ridgeline offers a rearview camera that's bundled with the optional nav system, but blind-spot monitors, active cruise control, and lane-keeping systems aren't offered.
Visibility is an issue in the Honda pickup. The thick rear pillars block most of the view to the rear quarters of the truck, making parking more difficult than it could be--though it's mitigated with that optional rearview camera.
Conclusion
The IIHS gives the Ridgeline its highest honors, but the NHTSA hasn't chimed in just yet.
