Honda is set to return to the mid-size pickup segment with a new generation of its Ridgeline going on sale next year, as a 2017 model. We’ve already spotted near-complete prototypes and Honda has even previewed the vehicle with a custom racing version. Now the Japanese automaker has confirmed that we’ll see the new Ridgeline debut at next month’s 2016 Detroit Auto Show.
Like the original Ridgeline, which debuted in Detroit close to 11 years ago, the new, second-generation model has been designed and developed by Honda’s American unit. The vehicle will also be built here, specifically at the Honda plant in Lincoln, Alabama.
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From our own spy shots plus the latest teaser, we can see that the new Ridgeline will sport a similar profile to the original, albeit with the heavily buttressed elements surrounding the tray absent. The crew cab configuration and C-pillar shape of the new Ridgeline are also common to the original.
The underpinnings are expected to be borrowed from the recently revealed Pilot, which should bring significant weight savings. For example, the new Pilot is roughly 300 pounds lighter than the previous model. Also borrowed from the Pilot should be a 3.5-liter V-6 and four-wheel-drive system.
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Following the debut in Detroit, Honda’s new Ridgeline will star in the automaker’s 60-second spot airing during the third quarter of Super Bowl 50 on February 7. It will be Honda’s first Super Bowl spot since the Hugfest ad of 2014. Honda’s upmarket Acura division will also have its own spot running during next year’s Big Game.
Stay tuned for the debut of the 2017 Honda Ridgeline at the Detroit Auto Show on January 11. In the meantime, see what else will be appearing via our dedicated hub.
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