Pickup trucks are a classic vehicle type that has been around for decades. However, within the last few years, a renaissance has occurred in their design. While originally debuting in the 60s and popping up again in the mid-2000s, unibody trucks are more popular than ever, with the king among them being the Honda Ridgeline (that unibody truck we just mentioned popping up in the mid-2000s? That was the Ridgeline).
Today, they’re comfortable, capable, and reliable machines that have impressive fuel efficiency and towing capacities. So, what is a unibody truck? What makes the Honda Ridgeline so special? Is it really that different from a normal pickup truck? In this guide, we’ll look at what separates a unibody truck from its seemingly similarly styled contemporaries and why the Ridgeline is at the top. Read on to learn more!
What is the Difference Between a Truck and a Unibody Truck?
A unibody truck is a design that combines the body of the vehicle and the frame into one unit.
Traditional pickup trucks and some other vehicles, like larger SUVs, use a body-on-frame design. Put simply, the frame is a flat blank slate of sorts that supports the wheels and suspension system. The body of the vehicle, the part that serves as the engine and parts holder, the cargo areas, and the cabin, is placed on top of the frame.
When the body and frame are one unit, as opposed to two, the vehicle is lighter than its body-on-frame counterparts, often leading to improved fuel efficiency. Additional benefits to a unibody design include:
- Better handling in urban and suburban areas, such as Joplin, MO, Miami, OK, and Pittsburg, KS.
- More space since there isn’t any taken away to accommodate the separate frame
- Versatility for comfortable rides in the city and some light off-roading.
Next, let’s look at the Honda Ridgeline and what sets it apart.
Honda Ridgeline Unibody Truck
The Honda Ridgeline doesn’t opt for the ultra-rugged stylings of other midsize pickup trucks on the market, but rather provides an all-around comfortable experience. While other trucks focus on maxing out towing and capabilities, shrugging off the comforts that daily drivers expect from vehicles, the Ridgeline caters to them. However, that isn’t to say that the Honda Ridgeline specs aren’t impressive.
All Honda Ridgeline trims come with a 3.5L V-6 engine that provides 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. Thanks to this engine setup, the Ridgeline is able to tow up to a max of 5,000 lbs. All-wheel drive is standard, which further improves handling, particularly around corners, while off-roading, and in inclement weather. All Ridgeline trims have a 5’ truck bed, so there’s no shortage of rear cargo space.
Inside the cabin, the rear seat has plenty of space, and all riders can enjoy leather seating, standard on the Ridgeline RTL trim and above. Heated front seats also start at the RTL trim, along with a one-touch power moonroof and tri-zone auto climate control, so everyone can choose their preferred temps while riding.
All Honda Ridgeline trucks come with a 9” infotainment screen, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility. You’ll also have access to wireless charging options on all trims, but the upper trims get the perk of native navigation with voice recognition. Lastly, while it isn’t tech-focused, the dual-action liftgate can be opened in the traditional drop-down way and also by swinging it open like a door. Very handy!
Honda Ridgeline for Sale in Joplin, MO
Ready to see why the Honda Ridgeline is the superior unibody truck? Head down to Roper Honda to explore our full lineup of new Honda vehicles to find the perfect fit for your needs. Contact us today or call us at 877-747-0738 to learn more and to schedule a test drive.