2022 Honda Ridgeline vs 2023 Ford F-150

The 2022 Honda Ridgeline, with its unibody platform, offered a unique take on pickup truck construction, providing increased rigidity compared to the traditional body-on-frame design. This innovative engineering was paired with a conservative styling approach, featuring a snub nose and a classic pickup rear view. The front-end styling, updated in 2021, gave the Ridgeline a blockier and more upright grille, aligning it more closely with other trucks. The available Honda Performance Development (HPD) packages added visual flair with fender flares and alloy wheels, while the Black Edition test vehicle presented a sleek, monochromatic look. Inside, the Ridgeline's no-nonsense design was complemented by high-quality fit and finish, with features like leather upholstery and heated seats. However, the piano black trim was prone to smudging and scratching, detracting from the otherwise well-equipped interior.

In contrast, the 2023 Ford F-150 offered a familiar and appealing design, with a wide range of configurations to suit various needs. The test truck, an XLT Super Crew, featured a blue-gray Area 51 paint color and a modular interior design focused on function. The F-150's cabin was equipped with comfortable cloth seats, ample storage, and a Ford Work Surface upgrade for added utility. While the steering wheel controls and shifter felt somewhat flimsy, the overall interior quality was satisfactory. The F-150's cargo bed, with a spray-in bedliner and Pro Power Onboard system, provided practical solutions for work and leisure activities. Despite some minor drawbacks, the F-150's design and functionality made it a strong contender in the full-size pickup segment.

The 2022 Honda Ridgeline was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. While its towing capacity of 5,000 pounds and payload ratings were modest compared to competitors, the Ridgeline excelled in ride quality and handling, thanks to its unibody platform and fully independent suspension. The naturally aspirated V6 provided adequate power, but the transmission's slow response and a sluggish start-stop system detracted from the driving experience. Off-road capability was limited by the Ridgeline's design, with a maximum ground clearance of 7.64 inches and no dedicated off-road version available.

The 2023 Ford F-150, on the other hand, offered a range of engine options, with the test truck featuring a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 delivering 400 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided smooth and responsive performance. The F-150's maximum towing capacity reached 14,000 pounds, with a payload rating of 3,315 pounds, depending on configuration. While the standard suspension tuning resulted in a somewhat harsh ride when unloaded, the F-150's structural solidity and secure handling were commendable. The brakes performed well during high-heat descents, and the truck's quiet cabin added to the overall driving experience. However, fuel economy fell short of expectations, with an average of 17 mpg during testing.

The 2022 Honda Ridgeline was available only in a four-door crew cab configuration with a 64-inch bed, offering a balance of passenger and cargo space. The truck bed featured a 7.3-cubic-foot lockable in-bed trunk, a spare tire slot, and an in-bed audio system. The Dual-Action Tailgate and wide bed allowed for versatile cargo handling. Inside, the Ridgeline provided additional storage under the rear seats and a well-organized front cabin with a pushbutton shifter, large center console, and easy-to-use controls. While headroom and legroom measurements were average, the Ridgeline's wider stance and lower cowl height contributed to a more spacious feel.

The 2023 Ford F-150, with its XLT trim, offered comfortable seating for five and ample storage options, including a large bin under the front center armrest and dual glove compartments. The rear seats could be flipped up or folded flat for added cargo space. The test truck's cargo bed, equipped with a spray-in bedliner and Pro Power Onboard system, provided practical solutions for various needs. However, climbing into the bed was challenging without the available tailgate step. The F-150's interior was designed for functionality, with power-adjustable pedals and a range of storage solutions enhancing its practicality.

The 2022 Honda Ridgeline came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity and Bluetooth. While the interface was not cutting-edge, it was easy to navigate, with analog controls for essential functions. SiriusXM satellite radio and navigation were available on higher trims, but the system lacked unique features compared to rivals.

The 2023 Ford F-150, equipped with the Sync 4 infotainment system, featured a 12-inch touchscreen display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM 360L satellite radio. While the system was generally easy to use, it suffered from slow loading times and needed bolder graphics for better readability. The voice recognition system performed exceptionally well, and the standard stereo provided decent sound quality. Additional features included remote engine starting, trailer-brake controller, and Pro Trailer Backup Assist, enhancing the F-150's technological appeal.

The 2022 Honda Ridgeline received top "Good" scores in most IIHS crash tests, with a "Superior" rating for front-crash prevention tech. However, it received an "Average" score in the passenger-side small overlap frontal test and a "Marginal" headlight rating. The NHTSA awarded the Ridgeline a five-star overall safety rating. Standard safety features included the Honda Sensing suite, with automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. Blind spot monitoring was available on higher trims, but a 360-degree camera system was notably absent.

The 2023 Ford F-150, with Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0, offered a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems. Standard features included automatic high-beam headlights, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Assist package added adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assist, and intersection assist. The F-150's safety systems performed well during testing, though some minor issues were noted with lane assist. The truck also featured a post-collision braking system and received high marks from both the IIHS and NHTSA.