Hey there, gearheads! Today, we're diving deep into the 2020 Honda Ridgeline RTL, a mid-size pickup truck that's been turning heads and winning hearts. This isn't your grandpa's pickup, folks. The Ridgeline RTL, with its unibody construction and innovative features, offers a unique blend of practicality, comfort, and versatility. So, buckle up, and let's explore what makes the 2020 Ridgeline RTL a compelling choice for truck buyers.

Unveiling the 2020 Honda Ridgeline RTL: Key Features and Specs

Alright, let's kick things off with a rundown of the 2020 Honda Ridgeline RTL's key features and specifications. This truck is all about offering a smooth ride and a user-friendly experience, from its powerful engine to its cleverly designed bed. The RTL trim level is the sweet spot for many buyers, offering a great balance of features and value. Now, let's get into the nitty-gritty and see what makes this truck tick.

First off, under the hood, you'll find a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces a respectable 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission, which helps to optimize fuel efficiency. The Ridgeline RTL comes standard with all-wheel drive (AWD), providing excellent traction and stability in various driving conditions. This is a significant advantage over many of its competitors, which often offer AWD as an optional upgrade. The Ridgeline RTL's suspension is tuned for a comfortable ride, making it feel more like a crossover SUV than a traditional pickup truck. This is thanks to its independent rear suspension, which helps to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road. The Ridgeline RTL also boasts a payload capacity of around 1,500 pounds and a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, making it capable of handling a wide range of tasks.

Inside the cabin, the Ridgeline RTL offers a spacious and well-appointed interior. The seats are comfortable and supportive, and there's plenty of room for both front and rear passengers. The RTL trim includes features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver's seat. The dashboard is modern and well-designed, with an 8-inch touchscreen display that houses the infotainment system. This system includes features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium audio system. Safety is a top priority for Honda, and the Ridgeline RTL is packed with advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. These features help to provide peace of mind and enhance the overall driving experience. The Ridgeline RTL's innovative features don't stop there. The truck bed includes a dual-action tailgate that can be opened down or sideways, making it easier to access the cargo area. There's also an in-bed trunk, which provides a secure and weatherproof storage compartment. Plus, the Ridgeline's composite bed is dent-resistant and doesn't require a bedliner, saving you both time and money. With all these features combined, the 2020 Honda Ridgeline RTL is a well-rounded truck that's sure to impress.

Driving Experience: Performance, Handling, and Ride Quality

So, how does the 2020 Honda Ridgeline RTL handle on the road? The driving experience is where the Ridgeline truly shines, setting it apart from its competitors. The ride quality is exceptionally smooth, thanks to its unibody construction and independent rear suspension. This design eliminates the harshness often associated with traditional pickup trucks, making the Ridgeline feel more like a refined SUV.

The V6 engine provides ample power for everyday driving, with brisk acceleration and confident passing capabilities. The 9-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently, contributing to the truck's overall refinement. The all-wheel-drive system offers excellent traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. Whether you're navigating city streets or tackling off-road trails, the Ridgeline RTL feels surefooted and composed. The steering is responsive and precise, making the truck easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The Ridgeline's unique design also results in a quieter cabin compared to most pickup trucks. Road and wind noise are well-suppressed, creating a more relaxed and enjoyable driving experience.

One of the standout features of the Ridgeline is its versatility. The truck bed is designed to handle a variety of cargo, from groceries to lumber. The dual-action tailgate and in-bed trunk add to the truck's practicality, providing convenient access and secure storage. The Ridgeline RTL is not just about performance and handling. It's also about providing a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. The interior is well-designed and features high-quality materials, creating a premium feel. The seats are supportive and comfortable, even on long drives. The infotainment system is user-friendly and offers a range of features, including smartphone integration and a premium audio system. Safety is always a priority, and the Ridgeline RTL is equipped with a suite of advanced safety features to help protect you and your passengers. The Ridgeline RTL offers a driving experience that's both enjoyable and practical. It's a truck that's just as comfortable on the highway as it is off the beaten path. If you are looking for a mid-size pickup truck, the 2020 Honda Ridgeline RTL is definitely worth considering.

Interior and Technology: Comfort, Features, and Infotainment

Alright, let's peek inside the 2020 Honda Ridgeline RTL and see what's on offer. The interior is a key area where the Ridgeline sets itself apart from the competition. Honda has put a lot of effort into creating a cabin that's both comfortable and functional. Let's explore the key features and technology.

The Ridgeline RTL's interior is spacious and well-appointed, with plenty of room for both front and rear passengers. The seats are comfortable and supportive, upholstered in high-quality leather. The RTL trim includes heated front seats, which are a welcome feature on chilly mornings. The driver's seat is power-adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect driving position. The dashboard is modern and well-designed, with a clean and uncluttered layout. The materials used throughout the cabin are of high quality, creating a premium feel. The center console houses an 8-inch touchscreen display that controls the infotainment system. This system is user-friendly and offers a range of features, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. The infotainment system also includes a premium audio system that delivers crisp and clear sound.

Beyond the infotainment system, the Ridgeline RTL is packed with other technology features. The truck includes a multi-angle rearview camera, which makes it easier to maneuver in tight spaces. Other notable features include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist, all of which enhance safety and provide peace of mind. The Ridgeline RTL also offers a variety of storage compartments, including a center console, door pockets, and a glove compartment. The rear seats fold up to create additional cargo space, adding to the truck's versatility. The Ridgeline RTL doesn't skimp on convenience features either. It includes features like push-button start, keyless entry, and a power-sliding rear window. The interior of the 2020 Honda Ridgeline RTL is a comfortable and well-equipped space. It's a place where you can relax and enjoy the ride, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a weekend adventure. Honda has done an excellent job of creating an interior that's both functional and stylish. You will definitely enjoy it!

Exterior Design and Practicality: Bed, Tailgate, and Storage

Let's move outside and talk about the 2020 Honda Ridgeline RTL's exterior design and its practical features. The Ridgeline is known for its unique unibody construction, which sets it apart from traditional body-on-frame pickup trucks. This design choice contributes to a more refined ride and improved handling. But how does it hold up in terms of practicality and functionality?

The Ridgeline RTL boasts a distinctive and modern design. It features a bold front end with a prominent grille and sleek headlights. The truck's profile is clean and streamlined, with a sloping roofline that gives it a more athletic appearance. The RTL trim level includes features like alloy wheels and fog lights, which add to its visual appeal.

One of the key features of the Ridgeline is its truck bed. Unlike traditional pickup trucks, the Ridgeline's bed is made of a composite material, which is dent-resistant and doesn't require a bedliner. This saves you both time and money. The bed also includes a dual-action tailgate that can be opened down or sideways, making it easier to access the cargo area. Another unique feature is the in-bed trunk, a secure and weatherproof storage compartment located under the bed floor. This trunk is ideal for storing valuables or keeping your groceries safe.

Beyond the bed, the Ridgeline RTL offers a variety of other practical features. It includes a variety of tie-down points, making it easy to secure cargo. The truck's payload capacity is around 1,500 pounds, and its towing capacity is up to 5,000 pounds, making it capable of handling a variety of tasks. The Ridgeline RTL's exterior design and practical features make it a versatile and functional pickup truck. It's a truck that's just as capable of handling your everyday needs as it is of tackling weekend adventures. The composite bed, dual-action tailgate, and in-bed trunk are all testament to Honda's commitment to innovation and practicality.

Safety Features and Driver-Assist Technologies

Safety is a top priority, and the 2020 Honda Ridgeline RTL comes packed with advanced safety features and driver-assist technologies. Honda has a strong reputation for safety, and the Ridgeline RTL continues this tradition.

The Ridgeline RTL is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. Standard features include a rearview camera, which makes it easier to see what's behind you when backing up. The truck also includes a variety of airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags. The Ridgeline RTL is also equipped with Honda Sensing, a suite of driver-assist technologies that help to prevent accidents and enhance safety. These technologies include adaptive cruise control, which automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. Lane departure warning alerts you if you drift out of your lane, and lane keeping assist helps to steer you back into your lane. Automatic emergency braking can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes.

Beyond these standard features, the Ridgeline RTL offers a range of other safety-related technologies. It includes blind-spot monitoring, which alerts you if there's a vehicle in your blind spot. Rear cross-traffic alert helps you to detect vehicles when backing out of a parking space. The Ridgeline RTL's advanced safety features and driver-assist technologies provide a high level of protection and peace of mind. Honda's commitment to safety is evident in the comprehensive suite of features included in the Ridgeline RTL, making it a safe and reliable choice for families and individuals alike. With this in mind, the 2020 Honda Ridgeline RTL is a safe and reliable choice for drivers looking for a truck that prioritizes safety.

Pros and Cons: What to Consider Before Buying

Before you decide if the 2020 Honda Ridgeline RTL is the right truck for you, it's essential to weigh its pros and cons. This will help you make an informed decision and ensure that the Ridgeline meets your specific needs and preferences. Let's break down the advantages and disadvantages.

Pros:

• Smooth Ride: The Ridgeline's unibody construction and independent rear suspension provide a remarkably smooth and comfortable ride, setting it apart from traditional pickup trucks.
• Versatility: The Ridgeline offers a versatile design with a unique truck bed that includes a dual-action tailgate and an in-bed trunk. It's capable of handling a wide range of tasks.
• Spacious and Comfortable Interior: The interior is well-designed and features high-quality materials. It offers ample space for passengers and a range of convenient features.
• Standard All-Wheel Drive: Unlike many competitors, the Ridgeline RTL comes standard with all-wheel drive, providing excellent traction and stability in various driving conditions.
• Advanced Safety Features: The Ridgeline RTL is equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features and driver-assist technologies, including Honda Sensing.
• User-Friendly Infotainment System: The infotainment system is user-friendly, with smartphone integration and a premium audio system.

Cons:

• Limited Towing Capacity: While the Ridgeline RTL has a decent towing capacity, it's lower than some of its competitors. If you frequently tow heavy loads, you may want to consider a truck with a higher towing capacity.
• Unique Design: The Ridgeline's unibody construction and unique design may not appeal to everyone. Some truck enthusiasts prefer the more rugged look and feel of traditional body-on-frame trucks.
• Price: The Ridgeline RTL is priced competitively within its class. However, it may be more expensive than some of its rivals.
• Bed Size: The bed size may be small compared to other trucks. So it may be a con to some users.

Ultimately, the best way to determine if the 2020 Honda Ridgeline RTL is right for you is to consider your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize comfort, versatility, and advanced safety features, the Ridgeline RTL is an excellent choice. However, if you require a higher towing capacity or prefer the rugged look of a traditional pickup truck, you may want to explore other options.

Conclusion: Is the 2020 Honda Ridgeline RTL Right for You?

So, after a thorough review, is the 2020 Honda Ridgeline RTL the right truck for you? The answer depends on your specific needs and priorities. The Ridgeline RTL is a compelling choice for those seeking a mid-size pickup truck. It offers a unique blend of comfort, versatility, and practicality. It's a truck that's just as comfortable on the highway as it is off the beaten path.

Here's a quick recap of the key takeaways:

• Smooth Ride: The Ridgeline's unibody construction provides a remarkably smooth and comfortable ride.
• Versatility: The truck bed includes a dual-action tailgate and in-bed trunk, offering convenient access and secure storage.
• Spacious and Comfortable Interior: The interior is well-designed and features high-quality materials.
• Standard All-Wheel Drive: AWD provides excellent traction and stability.
• Advanced Safety Features: Honda Sensing and other safety features offer peace of mind.

If you're looking for a truck that prioritizes comfort, versatility, and advanced safety features, the 2020 Honda Ridgeline RTL is an excellent choice. However, if you require a higher towing capacity or prefer the rugged look of a traditional pickup truck, you may want to explore other options. If you're looking for a mid-size pickup truck that combines practicality, comfort, and innovation, the 2020 Honda Ridgeline RTL is a standout choice. It's a truck that's sure to impress, offering a unique blend of features and capabilities that set it apart from the competition. So, go out there, take a test drive, and see if the Ridgeline RTL is the perfect fit for your lifestyle. Happy driving, everyone! And remember to always stay safe on the road!