Pickup trucks are more popular than ever, and one of the top choices for the midsize pickup segment is the Toyota Tacoma. A midsize truck competitor to the Tacoma is the Honda Ridgeline. While the Ridgeline has several strengths, there’s one key factor in the Tacoma’s favor. The 2023 Toyota Tacoma has one big advantage over the 2023 Honda Ridgeline: off-road capabilities.
The 2023 Toyota Tacoma Has Much Better Off-Road Capabilities Than The 2023 Honda Ridgeline
Trucks that can go off-road are all the rage these days, and on this front, the 2023 Toyota Tacoma is one of the best. It is much more capable for off-road driving compared to the 2023 Honda Ridgeline. If you want to get off the beaten path for some adventures in the wilderness, then the Tacoma is the best choice for you.
For one thing, the traction-enhancing all-wheel-drive system offered for the Tacoma is much better for driving on rough terrain compared to the Ridgeline’s four-wheel drive system. Additionally, the maximum ground clearance (9.4 inches) on the Tacama is higher than the Ridgeline’s (7.6 inches). High ground clearance is crucial for off-road use. It allows a truck to drive more effectively and safely over uneven surfaces, such as rocks.
Plus, the Tacoma has a well-deserved reputation for durability. It’s tough as nails and can take a beating from the rigors of off-roading. Also, while the Ridgeline is fine for city driving, it lacks the critical features offered for the Tacoma and other midsize trucks, like a locking differential.
Unlike the 2023 Ridgeline, the 2023 Tacoma has off-road versions
For even greater off-road capabilities, the 2023 Toyota Tacoma has off-road models with TRD Pro, TRD Off-Road, TRD Sport and Trail Special Edition. On the contrary, the 2023 sling Ridgeline has an off-road finish. Honda Pilot and Passport SUVs offer rugged TrailSport finishes. However, Honda has yet to release a TrailSport model for the Ridgeline.
For Tacoma, the most off-road capable model is the TRD Pro model. The Tacoma TRD Pro is ready for adventures in the wilderness with features like off-road tires, FOX internal bypass shocks, front skid plates, a multi-terrain monitor, a cat exhaust -back and an electronically controlled locking rear differential.
Even if you never plan to drive off-road, all of these off-road attributes have other benefits. For one, the Tacoma is better for driving in inclement weather conditions, such as snowy and icy roads. Also, the midsize truck is more effective for driving on poor quality roads, such as those with cracks, potholes, and broken concrete.
Other advantages of the Toyota Tacoma over the Honda Ridgeline
In addition to its off-road capabilities, the 2023 Tacoma has other advantages over the 2023 Ridgeline. This includes affordability. The Tacoma starts at $27,750 MSRP, compared to $38,800 MSRP for the Ridgeline. Also, while the Tacoma has a maximum towing capacity of 6,800 pounds, the Ridgeline can only tow up to 5,000 pounds.
Also, the Tacoma can carry a heavier load in the truck bed. It has a maximum payload capacity of 1,685 pounds, compared to 1,583 pounds for the Ridgeline. Plus, the Tacoma offers more configuration options.
With its off-road prowess, the 2023 Toyota Tacoma has a huge advantage over the 2023 Honda Ridgeline. For midsize truck buyers who want off-road adventures, the Tacoma is the best choice.