Toyota Tacoma or Honda Ridgeline: Which Small Truck Should You Choose?
Toyota Tacoma has led midsize truck sales for roughly two decades, but the Honda Ridgeline is a strong alternative with a very different take on “pickup.” Here’s a clear, side-by-side look to help you pick.
Quick Overview
Tacoma: Body-on-frame, off-road focused trims, wide configuration choices, available manual transmission, stellar resale.
Ridgeline: Unibody construction, car-like ride/handling, clever in-bed trunk, strong standard V6, top safety tech.
What’s New (2020 Models)
Tacoma 2020: 7–8" touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, available 360° camera & terrain monitor, TSS-P active safety across the range; max tow up to 6,800 lb.
Ridgeline 2020: 9-speed automatic, 8" touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Honda Sensing (AEB, adaptive cruise, lane keeping), standard V6 (280 hp).
Powertrains
Tacoma: 2.7L I-4 (159 hp) with 6-speed auto; 3.5L V6 (278 hp) with 6-speed auto or available 6-speed manual on TRD Off-Road/Pro; RWD or 4WD.
Ridgeline: 3.5L V6 (280 hp) with 9-speed auto; FWD standard, AWD available (varies by trim).
Towing & Capability
Tacoma: Up to 6,800 lb towing (V6, properly equipped); multiple off-road trims (TRD Off-Road, TRD Pro) with hardware/drive modes.
Ridgeline: Strong light-duty utility, lockable in-bed trunk and dual-action tailgate; lower tow capacity than Tacoma and limited off-road hardware.
Tech & Safety
Tacoma: Apple CarPlay/Android Auto on all; Toyota Safety Sense (AEB, adaptive cruise, lane departure alert, auto high beams) standard.
Ridgeline: Similar smartphone integration; Honda Sensing suite standard; Top Safety Pick ratings; very refined driver aids.
Ride & Everyday Comfort
Tacoma Pros: Rugged character, trail capability, excellent resale.
Tacoma Cons: Harsher ride, tight headroom for some, base I-4 feels underpowered.
Ridgeline Pros: Quiet cabin, car-like ride/handling, innovative bed storage.
Ridgeline Cons: Higher base price, limited serious off-road ability, reduced tow rating vs Tacoma.
Pricing (2020 MSRPs)
Tacoma: From $26,050 (I-4); V6 from ~$28,310; most 4×4/V6 builds start $30k+; TRD Pro from ~$46,665.
Ridgeline: From $33,900; Black Edition up to ~$43,520.
Which One Fits You?
Choose Tacoma if you value off-road capability, configuration choice (cab/bed/4×4/manual), stronger max tow, and lower entry price.
Choose Ridgeline if you prioritize on-road comfort, a quiet upscale cabin, and clever everyday usability (in-bed trunk, dual-action tailgate).
Shop & Learn More
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