Honda has officially teased the 2028 Ridgeline, and we like what we see. It’s a boxier, more upright truck compared to the current-generation model, which looks like the last Pilot with a bed. Honda says that this third-generation truck will feature a more rugged design. The brand’s Southern California styling studio will be responsible for designing the next Ridgeline, while engineering work will take place in Ohio. Like the current truck, the 2028 Ridgeline will be built at the Honda Alabama Auto Plant. That facility also builds the Passport, Odyssey, and Pilot using domestic and globally made parts. Production of the 2026 Ridgeline will pause later this year, said Honda.
Based on what we see, the 2028 Honda Ridgeline may take an evolutionary approach to design. That means nothing too radical, and a lot of familiar details found in existing Honda models. We suspect a similar front fascia to the current Passport, giving it that extra rugged aura. Expect the new Ridgeline to include the rugged TrailSport trim in multiple variations, just like the Passport. However, everything from the C-pillar back may carry over with barely any changes based on the teaser image Honda published, further hinting at the evolutionary approach.
What about under the skin, you ask? Expect the 2028 Ridgeline to use the same 3.5-liter V6 as the Pilot and the Passport. Just like its SUV siblings, the truck will most likely swap the ZF-sourced nine-speed automatic for the in-house-developed 10-speed. As for the rumored hybrid powertrain designed for large vehicles, we’re not expecting it yet. Based on the teaser alone and Honda’s press release, this third-generation truck may simply be an extremely heavy refresh with a new engine. It’ll likely be some time before we see a Ridgeline Hybrid taking on Toyota’s Tacoma i-FORCE MAX.
Source: Honda
