Buying a new midsize pickup truck can be a challenging task. It’s one of the busiest vehicle segments, with many factors to consider. One of the most popular models is the Honda Ridgeline. It has a luxurious and exclusive interior that many drivers fall in love with. However, some trim levels are much better than others. There are a few reasons to buy the base model Ridgeline over any other version of the Honda pickup. What’s so great about the 2023 Honda Ridgeline Sport version?
The 2023 Honda Ridgeline has an engine
The engine is the number one reason to buy a base model 2023 Honda Ridgeline. All versions of Honda’s midsize truck lineup use the same engine under the hood. Starting with the base Sport model, you’re paying thousands of dollars less for the same power and fuel economy as a top-of-the-line model. Fortunately, it’s a 3.5-liter V6 capable of making 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. Though it’s not the fastest or most powerful engine around, the Ridgeline provides a respectable amount of power for a midsize truck, outperforming its four-cylinder rivals.
Plus, the standard engine provides surprisingly good fuel economy. Finding out it has a V6, most readers would assume the Ridgeline is terrible on fuel. However, it has an EPA-estimated average of 18 mpg city and 24 highway, besting other V6-equipped midsize trucks. For example, edmunds it says it’s better than the Toyota Tacoma and Chevy Silverado, but falls short of the four-cylinder Ford Ranger. The post’s tests determined a combined estimate of 23 mpg, beating the EPA’s 21 mpg.
Standard equipment and all-wheel drive
Next, one reason to buy the base model 2023 Honda Ridgeline is the many standard features, including all-wheel drive. Many trucks don’t have standard AWD, but you can’t buy a Honda truck without it. Plus, even for just $40,095, the Ridgeline Sport is well equipped. 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, bed lights, keyless entry/start, tri-zone automatic climate control, an eight-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a seven-speaker sound system , a Class III trailer hitch with a seven-pin connector, and the Honda Sensing Safety Package.
Safety suite features include adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist and forward collision mitigation. Other safety-oriented features enter the lineup for higher trims, for example, blind spot warning, front/rear parking sensors, and automatic high beams.
2023 Honda Ridgeline Option Packages for All Trims
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Finally, many car manufacturers only offer option packages for some models in their most expensive forms. Buying the top-of-the-range model often unlocks access to more packages for even more features. However, the 2023 Honda Ridgeline has three option packages available for all trims. That means the base Sport model can get even better without spending as much on other trim levels.
First of all, the Function+ package is perfect for owners who will be using their charging pad frequently. Add trunk dividers in the bed, a cargo net in the bed, a first aid kit and a tonneau cover. Next, the Honda Performance Development (HPD) package contains bronze or black wheels, fenders, HPD badging/decals, and a unique front grille. Finally, the Utility package includes a few simple items to upgrade your Honda truck: roof rails with cross bars and running boards.
Shop the 2023 Honda Ridgeline Base Model
Bottom line, there are a few reasons to buy the base model 2023 Honda Ridgeline over other options. The Sport trim is more basic than other Ridgeline trims, but still offers plenty of amenities. Plus, all-wheel drive and a powerful V6 engine are standard across the board, along with surprisingly good fuel economy. Finally, option packages are available for all trims, including the base model. That means buyers can upgrade their Ridgeline without breaking the bank.