Hey guys, are you looking for a sweet ride that can handle your weekend adventures and your daily commute? Well, the 2017 Honda Ridgeline might just be the truck for you. This isn't your grandpa's pickup, folks. Honda decided to shake things up with the second generation Ridgeline, and honestly, they knocked it out of the park. It’s built on a unibody platform, similar to what you find in their SUVs, which gives it a totally different feel from traditional body-on-frame trucks. This means a smoother ride, better handling, and surprisingly good fuel economy for a truck. If you're tired of that bone-jarring experience you get from some other trucks, the Ridgeline is definitely worth a closer look. We're going to dive deep into what makes this truck so special, covering everything from its unique features to its performance and practicality. So, buckle up, and let's explore the ins and outs of the 2017 Honda Ridgeline!

Why Choose the 2017 Honda Ridgeline?

So, why should you, my awesome readers, consider the 2017 Honda Ridgeline? It’s all about a smart blend of capability and comfort, which is a rare find in the truck world. Unlike many traditional trucks that feel like they're designed solely for hauling rocks and trudging through mud (which, hey, is cool sometimes!), the Ridgeline offers a more refined experience. Its unibody construction, borrowed from Honda’s popular SUV lineup, translates to a quieter cabin and a more car-like ride. This means your daily commute won't feel like a workout, and long road trips will be significantly more enjoyable. Plus, this construction method contributes to better fuel efficiency compared to its body-on-frame rivals. Think about it: you get the utility of a truck bed for hauling bikes, furniture, or even that giant inflatable flamingo for your pool party, without sacrificing the comfort you expect from a modern vehicle. It’s perfect for those who need truck functionality but don't want to compromise on everyday drivability. Whether you're navigating city streets, cruising on the highway, or tackling some light off-roading, the Ridgeline offers a versatile and comfortable solution. It’s also packed with innovative features that Honda is known for, making it a practical and forward-thinking choice. We'll get into those goodies later, but trust me, they add a whole layer of convenience that you might not find elsewhere.

Engine and Performance: More Than Just a Pretty Face

Let's talk power, guys! Under the hood of the 2017 Honda Ridgeline is a robust 3.5-liter i-VTEC V6 engine. This beast churns out a healthy 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Now, that's enough grunt to handle most of what you'll throw at it, whether you're merging onto the highway or towing a trailer. What's really cool is that Honda paired this V6 with a 6-speed automatic transmission (or a 7-speed in some higher trims, but let's focus on the 2017 model). This transmission is smooth, responsive, and helps keep the engine in its happy place, contributing to that impressive fuel economy we mentioned. Speaking of fuel economy, the front-wheel-drive models can achieve an EPA-estimated 19 MPG city and 26 MPG highway, while the all-wheel-drive (AWD) versions come in slightly lower at 18 MPG city and 25 MPG highway. These numbers are pretty darn good for a midsize truck, especially one with a V6! The Ridgeline also boasts an intelligent AWD system, called i-VTM4, which is a game-changer. It can actively distribute torque not only between the front and rear axles but also between the left and right rear wheels. This means superior traction and stability in slippery conditions, whether you're dealing with rain, snow, or a muddy campsite. For those who like to tow, the 2017 Ridgeline can haul up to 5,000 pounds, which is respectable for its class and enough for many small boats, ATVs, or a decent-sized camper. The handling is also a standout feature, thanks to that unibody construction. It feels more planted and agile than traditional trucks, making it a pleasure to drive on winding roads. So, while it might not be the heavy-duty workhorse for extreme towing or payload needs, the Ridgeline offers a balanced and capable performance package that caters to a broader range of drivers. It’s a truck that truly shines in everyday driving scenarios while still offering the versatility you need for weekend fun.

Interior Comfort and Features: Like a Living Room on Wheels

Prepare to be impressed by the 2017 Honda Ridgeline interior, because it's seriously one of the most comfortable and feature-packed cabins you'll find in a pickup truck. Honda really focused on making this feel less like a utilitarian work vehicle and more like a comfortable daily driver. From the get-go, you'll notice the spaciousness. There’s ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers, meaning no one’s going to be complaining about being cramped, even on longer journeys. The seats themselves are supportive and well-cushioned, making them great for long hauls. But where the Ridgeline really shines is in its clever storage solutions and thoughtful features. Remember that flat load floor in the bed? Well, inside, you get a similar kind of ingenuity. There's a massive center console with a dual-level storage system that can swallow up all sorts of gear. Plus, you'll find numerous cup holders and cubbies scattered throughout the cabin, ensuring there's a place for everything. Higher trim levels come loaded with goodies like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a one-touch power moonroof, and a push-button start. The infotainment system is user-friendly, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen display that controls audio, phone, and navigation (if equipped). Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were becoming available on some models, which is a huge plus for smartphone integration. Honda even included tri-zone automatic climate control, so everyone can set their perfect temperature. And let’s not forget the acoustic glass and sound-deadening materials used throughout the cabin. This results in a remarkably quiet ride, even at highway speeds, further enhancing that premium feel. It truly feels like a well-appointed SUV interior, which is exactly what makes the Ridgeline so appealing to a wide audience. It’s a place you’ll actually enjoy spending time in, whether you’re stuck in traffic or heading out for an adventure.

The Bed and That Famous Trunk: Utility Redefined

Now, let's talk about the business end of the 2017 Honda Ridgeline: its bed and that legendary in-bed trunk. Honda really thought outside the box here, and it’s one of the main reasons people gravitate towards this truck. First off, the bed itself is made of a durable, scratch-resistant composite material. This means you don't have to worry as much about dinging it up when you're loading lumber or hauling your dirt bike. It's also wide enough to lay sheets of plywood flat between the wheel wells, which is a handy feature that not all trucks offer. The standard bed length is about 5.4 feet, which is competitive for its class. But the real magic lies in the dual-action tailgate and the in-bed trunk. The tailgate can either swing out to the side like a traditional door or lift up conventionally. This side-swinging capability makes it much easier to reach into the bed, especially when you're parked close to something. And that in-bed trunk? Oh man, it’s a game-changer! It’s a large, lockable storage compartment located under the bed floor. It’s weather-proof, meaning you can store your muddy gear, groceries, or even use it as a cooler for tailgating (it even has a drain plug!). This trunk offers a secure and discreet place to stash your valuables, and it adds a massive amount of practical, hidden storage. Honda engineers estimated it can hold about 7.3 cubic feet of gear, which is equivalent to a couple of standard carry-on suitcases. So, whether you're heading to the golf course and need a place to keep your clubs safe and dry, or you’re packing for a road trip and want extra, secure storage, this in-bed trunk is incredibly useful. The combination of a practical bed, a versatile tailgate, and that unique, lockable trunk makes the 2017 Ridgeline a super versatile and secure hauler, perfect for everything from grocery runs to weekend getaways.

Safety Features: Peace of Mind on the Road

When you're behind the wheel, especially in a vehicle like the 2017 Honda Ridgeline, safety is always top of mind, right? Well, Honda didn't skimp here. This truck is packed with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. For starters, it received excellent safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, which is always a great sign. It comes standard with six airbags, including front, front side-impact, and side curtain airbags. The ACE (Advanced Compatibility Engineering) body structure is another key element. It's designed to better distribute crash forces away from the passenger cabin, improving occupant protection in a variety of collision scenarios. But Honda went further, especially on higher trim levels, by offering a suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies. These are often part of the Honda Sensing package. Think features like Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), which can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an imminent frontal collision. There’s also Road Departure Mitigation (RDM), which helps steer the vehicle back into its lane if it begins to drift off the road unintentionally. Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) can help keep the vehicle centered in its lane, and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) allows you to maintain a set speed and following distance from the vehicle ahead, reducing driver fatigue on long trips. Many models also come equipped with a multi-angle rearview camera, making backing up and parking a breeze. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are also available, adding another layer of awareness. These technologies aren't just fancy gadgets; they actively work to prevent accidents or reduce their severity. The combination of passive safety features (like airbags and the ACE body structure) and active safety systems ensures that the 2017 Ridgeline offers a high level of security and peace of mind for everyone on board. It’s a testament to Honda’s commitment to making vehicles that are not only practical and fun but also exceptionally safe.

Finding a 2017 Honda Ridgeline Today

So, you've heard all the great stuff about the 2017 Honda Ridgeline, and you're thinking, "Where can I get my hands on one?" You're in luck, guys! The 2017 model is a fantastic option on the used car market. Since it was the first year of the second generation, you'll find relatively modern features and styling. Websites like Autotrader, Cars.com, and CarGurus are excellent places to start your search. You can filter by year, make, model, price, mileage, and even specific features like AWD or a particular trim level (like the RTS, SE, RTL, or RTL-T). When you're looking, pay close attention to the vehicle history report, often available through services like CarFax or AutoCheck. This will give you insight into its maintenance history, any reported accidents, and the number of previous owners. It’s also crucial to inspect the vehicle thoroughly before making a purchase. Look for any signs of rust, especially on the undercarriage or around the wheel wells. Check the tires for wear and tear, and make sure all the electronics, from the A/C to the infotainment system, are working correctly. Don't be afraid to take it for an extended test drive – drive it on different types of roads to get a real feel for its performance and handling. Ideally, have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection. They can spot potential issues that you might miss. Prices can vary significantly based on mileage, condition, trim level, and location, but generally, the 2017 Ridgeline offers excellent value for money. You're getting a unique blend of SUV comfort, car-like handling, and truck utility, all wrapped up in a reliable package. Happy hunting, and I hope you find the perfect 2017 Ridgeline to fit your lifestyle!