2020 Honda Ridgeline Gains Standard 9-Speed Auto And More Safety Tech, Starts $4k Higher

The new model year 2020 Honda Ridgeline goes on sale on December 16 across the United States featuring a host of content upgrades, including changes to the powertrain.

The big news is that all trim levels get a nine-speed automatic transmission as standard instead of the previously-available six-speed auto. The engine stays the same 3.5-liter i-VTEC V6 with Variable Cylinder Management delivering 280 HP (284 PS) and 262 lb-ft (355 Nm) of torque.

All-wheel drive is available on all trims (standard on RTL-E and Black Edition). Also standard is the Honda Sensing safety suite which includes Collision Mitigation Braking System with Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keeping Assist System, Road Departure Mitigation with Lane Departure Warning, and Adaptive Cruise Control.

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Other updates for the 2020MY are a standard 8-inch Display Audio infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, remote locking for the Dual Action Tailgate, and rear doors that open wider to make entry and exit easier. Available features include LED headlights (low beam), 8-way power driver’s seat with adjustable lumbar support, and ambient interior lighting, among other things.

Customers can also personalize their Ridgeline with Honda Genuine Accessories such as a hard tonneau cover, fender flares, front skid plate, back-up sensors, illuminated door sill trim, camping tent and racks for various sports equipment.

Finally, Honda has streamlined the lineup and ditched the base RT grade as well as the RTL-T upper grade. As a result, the range now includes Sport, RTL, RTL-E, and Black Edition models. Therefore, prices start almost $4,000 higher compared to the 2019 model year, ranging from $33,900 (excluding $1,095 destination) for the Sport 2WD model and $43,520 for the Black Edition.