Hey guys! Thinking about getting your hands on a 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL? You've come to the right place. We're diving deep into what makes this truck tick, giving you the lowdown on its performance, features, and overall value. No fluff, just the stuff you need to know to make an informed decision.

Overview of the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL

The 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL isn't your typical pickup truck; it blends Honda's renowned reliability with a unique unibody construction, delivering a smooth ride and impressive versatility. It's designed for folks who want a truck that can handle daily commutes, weekend adventures, and the occasional hauling task without sacrificing comfort and convenience. Unlike traditional body-on-frame trucks, the Ridgeline offers a more refined driving experience, making it a standout in its class.

Key Features and Specifications

Let's get into the nitty-gritty. The 2022 Ridgeline RTL comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and efficient power delivery. All-wheel drive is standard, ensuring confident traction in various driving conditions. The RTL trim includes features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.

• Engine: 3.5-liter V6
• Horsepower: 280 hp
• Torque: 262 lb-ft
• Transmission: 9-speed automatic
• Drivetrain: All-wheel drive (AWD)
• Key Features: Leather upholstery, heated front seats, 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto

Design and Comfort

One of the most significant advantages of the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL is its comfortable and well-designed interior. The cabin feels more like an SUV than a traditional truck, with high-quality materials and a user-friendly layout. The leather seats are supportive and comfortable, making long drives a breeze. The rear seats offer ample legroom, and the unique in-bed trunk provides secure and weatherproof storage. The dual-action tailgate can either fold down like a traditional tailgate or swing open to the side, making it easier to access the bed.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance, the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL strikes a balance between power and refinement. The V6 engine delivers plenty of pep for everyday driving, and the nine-speed transmission ensures smooth and efficient gear changes. The Ridgeline's unibody construction gives it a more composed and car-like ride compared to its body-on-frame competitors. It handles corners with confidence and absorbs bumps with ease, making it a comfortable daily driver.

Driving Experience

Behind the wheel, the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL feels planted and stable. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction, especially in wet or snowy conditions. The steering is precise and responsive, and the brakes offer confident stopping power. While it may not have the same off-road prowess as some of its competitors, the Ridgeline is more than capable of handling light trails and gravel roads.

Towing and Hauling Capabilities

While the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL isn't designed to be a heavy-duty workhorse, it still offers respectable towing and hauling capabilities. It can tow up to 5,000 pounds, making it suitable for towing small boats, trailers, and other recreational equipment. The bed can handle a payload of up to 1,583 pounds, which is plenty for most DIY projects and hauling gear. The in-bed trunk adds a unique and practical storage solution, allowing you to keep tools, groceries, or other items secure and out of the elements.

Interior and Technology

The interior of the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL is a standout feature, offering a blend of comfort, convenience, and technology. The leather upholstery adds a touch of luxury, and the heated front seats keep you warm on chilly mornings. The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system is easy to use, with intuitive menus and responsive controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration allow you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation.

Infotainment System

The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system in the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL is a user-friendly interface that keeps you connected and entertained on the go. It features crisp graphics, responsive touch controls, and a straightforward menu layout. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration allow you to mirror your smartphone's display, access your contacts, and use voice commands to control various functions. The system also includes Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, and a premium audio system for an enhanced listening experience.

Safety Features

Honda is known for its commitment to safety, and the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL is no exception. It comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including:

• Forward Collision Warning: Alerts you to potential frontal collisions.
• Automatic Emergency Braking: Automatically applies the brakes to help avoid or mitigate a collision.
• Lane Departure Warning: Alerts you if you drift out of your lane.
• Lane Keeping Assist System: Gently steers the vehicle back into its lane if you start to drift.
• Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set following distance from the vehicle ahead.

These safety features provide added peace of mind, helping you stay safe and avoid accidents on the road.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for any vehicle, and the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL delivers respectable numbers for a mid-size pickup truck. It's EPA-rated at 18 mpg in the city, 24 mpg on the highway, and 21 mpg combined. These figures are competitive with other trucks in its class, and the Ridgeline's smooth and efficient powertrain helps you save money at the pump.

Real-World MPG

While the EPA estimates provide a good baseline, real-world fuel economy can vary depending on driving conditions and habits. In our testing, we found that the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL generally achieved fuel economy numbers close to the EPA estimates. However, aggressive driving or frequent towing can significantly reduce fuel efficiency. By driving conservatively and keeping up with regular maintenance, you can maximize your Ridgeline's fuel economy.

Pros and Cons of the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL

To give you a balanced perspective, let's take a look at the pros and cons of the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL:

Pros:

• Smooth and Comfortable Ride: The unibody construction provides a more refined driving experience compared to traditional body-on-frame trucks.
• Spacious and Well-Designed Interior: The cabin is comfortable and user-friendly, with high-quality materials and ample space for passengers and cargo.
• Innovative Features: The in-bed trunk and dual-action tailgate offer unique and practical storage solutions.
• Standard All-Wheel Drive: Provides confident traction in various driving conditions.
• Strong Safety Ratings: Comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features.

Cons:

• Limited Off-Road Capability: Not as capable as some competitors on challenging off-road trails.
• Towing Capacity: Lower towing capacity compared to some other mid-size trucks.
• Styling: The Ridgeline's styling may not appeal to everyone, as it looks more like an SUV than a traditional truck.

Alternatives to the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL

If you're not completely sold on the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL, there are several other mid-size trucks to consider. Some popular alternatives include:

• Toyota Tacoma: Known for its reliability and off-road capability.
• Chevrolet Colorado: Offers a variety of engine options and trim levels.
• Ford Ranger: A capable and versatile truck with a strong towing capacity.
• Nissan Frontier: A newly redesigned truck with a rugged and modern design.

Each of these trucks has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it's worth doing your research and test driving a few different models to see which one best fits your needs.

Conclusion: Is the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL Right for You?

So, is the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL the right truck for you? It depends on your priorities. If you value a smooth and comfortable ride, a spacious and well-designed interior, and innovative features, the Ridgeline is an excellent choice. It's perfect for daily commutes, weekend adventures, and light-duty hauling. However, if you need a truck with maximum towing capacity or serious off-road capability, you might want to consider other options.

Overall, the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL is a versatile and well-rounded truck that offers a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and capability. It's a great option for folks who want a truck that can do it all without sacrificing refinement and practicality. Thanks for reading, and happy truck shopping!