Honda Ridgeline 2029 Preview: New Design, Updated V6 Engine, Release, and Everything Known So Far

The Honda Ridgeline has long occupied a unique position in the midsize pickup segment. Unlike traditional body-on-frame rivals, Honda's truck uses a unibody design shared with its SUV lineup, prioritizing comfort, handling, and everyday usability.

As the current generation approaches its 10th anniversary, attention is turning toward what could be the next major update for the pickup.

Recent reports suggest Honda is preparing big changes for the Ridgeline. While a completely new generation may still be years away, an updated model is reportedly in development and could arrive as a 2029 model-year vehicle.

From styling revisions to powertrain upgrades, several details have started to emerge.

Why the Honda Ridgeline Is Due for an Update

Honda Ridgeline 2029

The current-generation Honda Ridgeline debuted for the 2017 model year and has remained largely unchanged compared to newer competitors.

While Honda has introduced updates over the years, including the addition of the TrailSport trim, the pickup is now facing increasing competition from newer trucks in the midsize segment.

The market continues to evolve with refreshed offerings from rivals such as the Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Colorado, and Nissan Frontier.

Future entries, including the rumored Ram Dakota and a successor to the Hyundai Santa Cruz, could make the segment even more competitive by the time the updated Ridgeline arrives.

Reports indicate Honda may temporarily pause Ridgeline production before relaunching the truck with revised styling and an updated engine package designed to meet stricter emissions standards.

Look Back at the Ridgeline's History

Honda introduced the first-generation Ridgeline in 2005. It featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 255 horsepower, all-wheel drive, independent suspension, and a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds.

Production paused after the first generation ended, leaving the Ridgeline absent during the 2015 and 2016 model years. Honda brought the truck back for 2017 with a second-generation model based on a revised unibody platform shared with the Pilot SUV.

Since then, the Ridgeline has remained a practical alternative to traditional pickups, appealing to buyers who prioritize ride quality and versatility over heavy-duty capability.

Expected Design Changes

Although the updated Ridgeline is expected to retain its current architecture, styling changes could give it a significantly different appearance.

Industry speculation suggests Honda may borrow design cues from the latest Passport SUV, particularly the TrailSport model. The Passport has been one of Honda's recent success stories, and its rugged styling could influence the next Ridgeline.

Potential exterior updates may include:

• A more upright front fascia
• Rectangular headlight designs
• A revised grille with a stronger visual presence
• More prominent skid plates
• Updated taillight signatures inspired by the Passport

The result could be a pickup that looks more rugged while maintaining the practicality that has defined the Ridgeline for years.

New V6 Engine and Transmission Possibilities

One of the biggest expected upgrades involves the powertrain.

The current Ridgeline uses Honda's 3.5-liter J35Y6 V6 engine, producing 280 horsepower. Future versions could adopt a variant of the newer J35Y8 engine currently used in the Pilot and Passport.

The updated V6 delivers slightly more power and features a revised design intended to improve efficiency and emissions performance.

Honda is also developing a new V6 engine that will work alongside its next-generation hybrid technology. While it remains unclear whether the Ridgeline will receive hybrid assistance immediately, the updated powertrain strategy could influence future versions of the truck.

The nine-speed automatic transmission may also be replaced by Honda's newer 10-speed automatic gearbox. This transmission already serves in the Pilot and Passport and offers smoother shifts and improved performance.

Platform and Chassis Expectations

The Ridgeline is expected to continue using Honda's PF7 platform, which it shares with the Pilot and Passport.

Maintaining the existing platform would help Honda reduce development costs while allowing engineers to improve structural rigidity, safety systems, and ride quality. Updates to suspension tuning and chassis components could further enhance the truck's on-road refinement.

Because the Ridgeline's unibody design remains one of its defining features, Honda is unlikely to abandon the formula that separates it from traditional pickup competitors.

Release Date and Potential Pricing

Current reports suggest production of the updated Ridgeline may begin around 2028. If that timeline holds, a public debut could happen sometime in 2027 or early 2028 before the truck reaches dealerships as a 2029 model.

Pricing is also expected to rise. The current Ridgeline lineup starts above $40,000, with higher trims approaching $50,000. Given industry-wide price increases and the expected upgrades, the next version could begin around the mid-$40,000 range.

What the Future Holds For the Honda Ridgeline

The upcoming Honda Ridgeline appears to welcome meaningful updates without abandoning the characteristics that made it successful.

Of course, revised styling, a modernized V6 engine, and possible transmission improvements could help the pickup remain competitive in an increasingly crowded market. But the last say will still depend on Honda if they steer away from the potential tweaks from previous models.

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