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Take a look at the reasons why the Honda Ridgeline beats the Toyota Tacoma every day of the week
Versatility is at the core of the 2022 Honda Ridgeline, it perfectly mixes the greatest features from mid-size trucks and crossovers, it includes an impressive underfloor luggage compartment which is a huge defining feature. It travels with purpose, thanks to a capable V-6 engine and standard all-wheel drive, and its independent rear suspension provides impressive handling. When you combine the 2022 Ridgeline's numerous standard driving aids with its comfortable and quiet interior, you get a truck that is both desireable and practical.
Next year, we anticipate to learn more about the new Toyota Tacoma, which is believed to appear in 2023, with a new powertrain. The 2023 Tacoma will be built on a new body frame with a more advanced coil-spring rear suspension. The new Toyota Tacoma should have comparable designs and mechanical components to the completely remodeled Toyota Tundra. To remain dominating, Toyota would require considerable changes, which the upcoming generation seeks to achieve.
Related: Why The Toyota Tacoma Is The Best-Selling Mid-Size Truck In America
The 3.5-liter V-6 engine produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque and is accompanied by a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The engine seems smooth, and the throttle response is extremely positive. The smoothness of the Ridgeline is because of its coil-sprung independent rear suspension, which isn't available in its rivals which use leaf-spring, solid-axle systems providing a bumpy and uncomfortable ride. In corners, body lean is modest, and minor bumps are barely visible. The electric-assisted steering is comfortable and easy although the braking abilities of the Ridgeline is one of a very few disadvantages, it's too soft and squidgy, braking from high speeds takes way longer than what you ideally want. Despite the impressive speed of the Ridgeline, it seems as though towing capacities have been put on the back burner.
Related: Here's How The Honda Ridgeline Can Be Your Fit As A Great Camping Pickup Truck
The Ridgeline's interior is the most functional and comfortable in its class. The Honda, like most other mid-size pickups, has hard plastics below the dash, the materials are otherwise above average. Both front seats have fold-down armrests, which is a nice touch. In the Ridgeline, an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system comes as standard which now has a real volume knob as well as screen icons that Honda claims are easier to use than the previous model. As standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are fitted in the Ridgeline. In addition, certain versions come with an in-bed entertainment system that will liven up any tailgate party. It transforms the cargo bed into a massive speaker by vibrating actuators.
Related: Here's Why Truck Fans Need To Stop Hating On The Honda Ridgeline
A powertrain change is expected in the all new Toyota Tacoma, which may include a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a hybrid option similar to the Tundra. The 2023 Tacoma is also said to have a snazzier interior and a more modern infotainment system, though official specifics are still unknown
If the Tundra's new design is anything to go by, its younger sibling will have a similar grille, lighting elements, and fender bulges. The outgoing Tacoma has a mediocre four-cylinder base engine and a V-6 engine that is less powerful than any other V-6-powered competitor, including the Honda Ridgeline. It is believed that the Tacoma will be equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, most likely the 2.4-liter engine extracted from the Lexus NX350, which puts out 275 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque.
The engine will be accompanied by an 8-speed automatic transmission, although the Tacoma may be made available in a hybrid version. The rear leaf-spring suspension is expected to be scrapped and replaced with a coil-spring suspension, ultimately improving its smoothness and comfort. Although it is expected that the suspension will get an upgrade as the Tacoma will probably be built on a new body-on-frame chassis.
Related: McFly Edition Toyota Tacoma Goes Back To The Future In Heavy Render
The Tacoma’s interior has not yet been revealed however, just as the appearance is believed to be inspired by the larger Tundra, so is the interior. This implies full-bodied style elements, higher-quality materials throughout, and contemporary features. On the infotainment front, we expect the Tacoma to get a bigger and more modern arrangement in 2023. It is likely to present a 14.0-inch screen with the system inclusive of Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and also a Wi-Fi hotspot.
Related: The Toyota Tacoma Proves Small Pickup Trucks Can Bring You A Perfect Camping Experience
The new Toyota Tacoma has not yet been unveiled, from what we know so far, it is clear that the Honda Ridgeline has much better performance statistics. The interior of both vehicles cannot be compared as it is completely unclear as to what the Tacoma's interior looks like but its crystal clear that the Honda Ridgeline will provide you with a much smoother and comfortable ride.
Sources: AutoMobiles, MotorTrend, Motor1, CarAndDriver, CarMax, Toyota, Honda
Tom is currently working as a radio presenter, film producer and also a writer. He is a true Mancunian, with a big passion for the media industry, he feels privileged to be in so many different sectors of the industry.