It took a long time for Honda to retool its original Ridgeline—eleven years, in fact, between the first and second generation. But it was time well spent, as proven by the 2017 Honda Ridgeline’s big win today in Detroit.
The completely redesigned and reengineered pickup truck was named 2017 North American Truck of the Year (NATOTY) today at the North American International Auto Show.
On sale since June 2016, the 2017 Ridgeline features a more streamlined and conventional look than its predecessor, while also boasting industry-exclusive standard and available features such as unibody construction, a Dual Action Tailgate, In-Bed Trunk, a scratch- and dent-resistant composite truck bed, and the industry’s first-ever Truck Bed Audio System.
The multi-award-winning 2017 Honda Ridgeline
The Ridgeline also holds the distinction of being the first and only pickup to earn a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, which applies to models equipped with available front crash prevention system and LED headlights.
This is the second consecutive year that Honda has gone to Motor City and been awarded the top honor, after the tenth-generation 2016 Honda Civic was named North American Car of the Year at last year’s show. This also represents the Ridgeline’s second NACTOY award, after the 2006 Ridgeline and 2006 Civic swept the awards.
“This award is a prized validation of the innovations and advantages the Ridgeline offers midsize pickup truck customers and a great recognition of the American development team’s work,” said John Mendel, Executive Vice President of American Honda Motor Company. “This is a terrific way to kick off 2017, and we’re looking forward to sharing more innovative Honda products in the year ahead.”
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