2009 Honda Ridgeline Truck Updates
Honda made 50 changes to its Ridgeline truck for 2009, some more significant than others. If you're familiar with previous versions of the Ridgeline, the first thing you'll probably notice is its restyled exterior, which includes a newly designed grille and bumpers. Headlight and taillight color-combos have also changed, and an integrated trailer hitch is now standard on every 2009 Ridgeline truck.
Ridgeline's Enhanced Powertrain
The 2009 Ridgeline retains the 3.5L VTEC V6 engine that past trucks were equipped with, but changes in camshaft, valve and intake manifold design have increased the truck's horsepower from 247 to 250 and its torque from 237 lb.ft. to 247 lb.ft.The most significant benefit from the changes is better power across a broader rpm range (the truck acquires its best power more quickly and keeps it for a longer period).
The Ridgeline continues to be equipped with a 5-speed automatic transmission, but its gear ratios have been changed to take advantage of the engine's new power range. Third and fourth gears were enhanced to improve acceleration and passing, especially when the truck is loaded with cargo or pulling a trailer.
A Variable Torque Management 4WD system (VTM-4) allows the Ridgeline to operate in front-wheel drive the majority of the time, but automatically distributes power to all four wheels when it detects ice, snow or other low traction conditions.
The Ridgeline's EPA ratings remain the same for 2009: 15 city / 20 highway.
Ridgeline Suspension
The Honda Ridgeline has fully independent suspension in the front and rear, designed to carry a payload of 1,550 pounds. (Read about truck suspension systems.)
Safety Features
Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) monitors sideways forces and body movement. The system can engage the truck's traction control, 4WD, anti-lock brakes and/or throttle control maintain stability. The VSA system is designed to be seamless -- you might not even realize when it kicks in.
Honda Ridgeline Towing
All 2009 Ridgeline trucks are equipped with an integrated trailer hitch. Also standard are transmission and oil coolers, heavy duty brakes and dual radiator fans. A 7-pin trailer connector is included on RTS and RTL trucks. The RT trim level has pre-wiring, but requires an additional kit to complete the setup.The Honda Ridgeline can tow a maximum of 5,000 pounds.
Truck's Body Structure
The Honda Ridgeline remains a four-door, five-passenger truck built on a closed-box, unit-body frame. (Frame Photo and Explanation)
2009 Ridgeline Styling Changes
I've already mentioned some of the Ridgeline's exterior changes, but look for enhancements inside, too:
- New steering wheel, gauges and control buttons
- New 115-volt power outlet on the Ridgeline RTL
- RTL and RTS have an auxiliary input jack for an MP3 player; all Ridgelines are MP3/WMA compatible
- New active front seat head restraints (headrest moves forward upon impact to minimize chances of whiplash)
- Two new cargo tie-downs in the bed, for a total of eight (bed can accommodate 4-foot wide objects)
- Bluetooth HandsFreeLink and rear backup camera on RTL trucks equipped with the optional Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System:
- Voice recognition
- Zagat Survey restaurant information
- XM Satellite Radio
- Multi-informational display
See page 2 for a full list of updates to the 2009 Ridgeline truck.
