
The 2009 Honda Ridgeline competes with a wide range of compact and mid-size trucks, most of which have more traditional layouts with burly frames and unforgiving leaf-spring rear suspensions.
The Explorer Sport Trac is the closest in concept to the Ridgeline; it has a shorter bed, but there's an optional V-8 that outdoes the Ridgeline, at least for low-speed hauling.
Even though the design is dated, it's still quite attractive.
The Nissan Frontier is another possibility; it's especially rugged in look and feel and comes in a variety of trims, including an off-road-focused model.
Those considering the Frontier should also take a look at the Equator, which is mechanically identical to the Frontier but with styling that many would judge more attractive.
The Equator also has a better warranty.
The Toyota Tacoma is another possibility; it's the choice for the frugal, thanks to its strong resale value and decent performance with the economical standard 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine.
Another possibility is the Dodge Dakota, but the mid-size Dakota handles and maneuvers like a larger truck.
Although the 2009 Ridgeline is priced higher than many of these models, all the heavy-duty towing components come standard; otherwise you'll have option boxes to check.
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Quick Specs | |||
The 2009 Honda Ridgeline doesn't drive like any other pickup model, and for most people who commute daily and haul sometimes, that's a good thing. |
Especially with the improved V-8, the 2008 Dodge Dakota can do most of what a full-size truck can while consuming fewer resources in the process. |
For those of us who don't live on a ranch, the 2008 Nissan Frontier is large enough to haul real people and cargo, but sized for the urban-congestion reality. |
The 2008 Toyota Tacoma covers the basics, at a price that’s lower than full-size trucks. |
MSRP From | |||
$28,200 | $20,470 | $16,530 | $14,280 |
Gas Mileage | |||
15 MPG City / 20 MPG Hwy | 14 MPG City / 20 MPG Hwy | 14 MPG City / 23 MPG Hwy | 15 MPG City / 25 MPG Hwy |
Engine | |||
Gas V6 | Gas V6 | Gas 4-cyl | Gas I4 |
EPA Class | |||
4WD Standard Pickup Truck | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Style Name | |||
4WD Crew Cab RT | 2WD Ext Cab ST | 2WD King Cab I4 Manual XE | 2WD Reg I4 MT (GS) |
Drivetrain | |||
Four Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive |
Passenger Capacity | |||
5 | 2 | 4 | 3 |
Passenger Doors | |||
N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Body Style | |||
4 Door Crew Cab | Extended Cab 6'7" Bed | King Cab | Regular Cab |
Transmission | |||
Automatic w/OD | Manual w/OD | Manual | Manual w/OD |
Detailed Spec Comparison | |||
2009 Honda Ridgeline vs. 2008 Dodge Dakota | 2009 Honda Ridgeline vs. 2008 Nissan Frontier | 2009 Honda Ridgeline vs. 2008 Toyota Tacoma |