Honda has officially confirmed that work is underway on an all new, third generation Ridgeline, bringing the current pickup closer to the end of its production run, which is expected to conclude by the end of 2026.
The timing makes sense. Competition in the midsize pickup segment has become increasingly intense, and the Ridgeline now faces a growing list of capable rivals. Honda appears ready to respond with a more rugged design, greater towing and payload capability, and an updated engine developed to meet stricter emissions standards.
A More Rugged Identity
The next Ridgeline is being developed largely in the United States, with Honda’s American design and engineering teams taking the lead.
Its exterior is being shaped at Honda’s design studio in Southern California, and early indications suggest that the truck will borrow inspiration from the latest Honda Passport. That should give it a more upright, muscular appearance and move it away from the softer styling of the current model.
Mechanical development is being handled by Honda’s engineering facilities in Ohio, while production is expected to take place at the company’s Alabama plant. The same facility also builds the Passport, Odyssey, and Pilot.
Honda has also confirmed that capability will be a major focus. Lance Woelfer, Vice President of Auto Sales at Honda America, said the new Ridgeline will offer significantly improved towing and payload figures compared with the outgoing generation.
An Updated V6 Engine
The redesign will extend beyond the exterior, with Honda also preparing an updated powertrain for the new truck.
The current Ridgeline uses a 3.5 liter J35Y6 V6 engine with a single overhead camshaft. It produces 280 horsepower and 362 Nm of torque.
Reports suggest that the next model will adopt the newer 3.5 liter J35Y8 V6 already used in the latest Honda Pilot and Passport. This dual overhead camshaft engine produces 285 horsepower and should deliver sharper response, improved efficiency, and cleaner emissions.
The power increase may be modest on paper, but the newer engine should give Honda more flexibility to improve overall performance, refinement, and fuel economy.
When Will It Arrive?
Production of the current Ridgeline is expected to end during the final quarter of 2026.
The third generation model is then likely to enter production in the third quarter of 2028 before reaching showrooms as a 2029 model.
That timeline would leave a noticeable gap between the two generations, although Honda has not yet revealed the full launch plan or confirmed all technical details.
ArabGT’s View
The Ridgeline has always taken a different approach from traditional pickups. Its SUV inspired driving experience, comfortable cabin, and everyday usability have helped it build a loyal audience, but its softer appearance and limited rugged character have also made it less appealing to some truck buyers.
A tougher design, greater towing capability, and improved off road performance could give the next Ridgeline a much stronger presence against established competitors such as the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger.
If Honda can preserve the comfort and practicality that made the Ridgeline distinctive while adding the strength and attitude buyers now expect from a midsize pickup, the third generation model could become the most convincing version yet.
Do you think a more aggressive design and an updated V6 engine will be enough to help the new Honda Ridgeline compete with its Japanese and American rivals?
