The Japanese manufacturer is going to expand its truck offer with the 2019 Honda Ridgeline Hybrid. The new version of this versatile truck is about to come next year and many experts predict its quick success.
To remind you, the original model came in 2005. Despite some unconventional design solutions, it became popular pretty quickly. The second generation came more than ten years later. With a completely new design, it continues to make some nice sales results, outselling models like GMC Canyon.
Two years after the launch of gasoline version, we are about to see hybrid variant. The new 2019 Ridgeline Hybrid will come with a new powertrain, but other characteristics will remain the same. We are about to see a familial styling, as well as interior design. When exactly the new hybrid pickup will come is unknown at the moment, but expect it in the second half of 2018.
2019 Honda Ridgeline Hybrid redesign
As we already mentioned, we don’t expect to see some bigger turnaround in terms of base design characteristics. The 2019 Honda Ridgeline Hybrid should continue with pretty much same design solutions. It will ride on the same architecture and feature pretty much same chassis. Moreover, the styling should be the same too. We will see pretty much the same exterior look. However, we could see some minor tweaks that will make the new version slightly distinctive. Besides these minimal new details, rest of the truck will remain the same. There is a familiar design language, present across the whole Honda lineup.
The same thing is expected inside. The 2019 Honda Ridgeline Hybrid will come with the same cabin design, with possible minor tweaks. On the other side, we expect much more equipment compared to base gasoline versions.
2019 Honda Ridgeline Hybrid features
The 2019 Honda Ridgeline Hybrid should come with plenty of equipment. Compared to gasoline version, we expect to feature similar equipment as some of the top-range models. So, things like tri-zone automatic climate control, 8-inch touchscreen, leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, navigation and 7-speaker audio system should be standard features. Of course, there will be much more but those are some of the highlights.
Also, we expect to see a full load of safety features. Expect to see systems like a blind-spot camera system, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning with automated emergency braking, lane departure warning and intervention, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
2019 Honda Ridgeline Hybrid powertrain
Latest reports suggest that the 2019 Honda Ridgeline Hybrid will use the same hybrid system as the famous Accord sedan. This is something that we expected since these two models are related in many other aspects. This means that the new version the mid-size truck will feature a combination of electric motor and 2.0-liter gasoline engine. Total output is around 212 horsepower. When it comes to fuel economy, we hope that the new truck will feature results similar to the Accord’s amazing 50 miles per gallon.
On the other side, the conventional version will continue with the same V6 unit. This engine is good for about 280 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. It comes in pair with a 6-speed automatic transmission and returns around 18/25 mpg.
2019 Honda Ridgeline Hybrid release date and price
More precise details about the new 2019 Honda Ridgeline Hybrid are still unknown. So far, it is certain that the new version will come next year, somewhere in the second half. Price is yet to be announced. However, some reports suggest that the new hybrid version will go around 40.000 dollars. Competition remains the same. There are models like GMC Canyon, Toyota Tacoma, Chevy Colorado and others.
