Recently, high-performance pickup trucks are the trend in the automotive industry. One of the vehicles that will draw the biggest attention surely is the upcoming 2021 Honda Ridgeline Type R. Beside its sporty and rough appearance, Honda’s truck offers more standard equipment than any other similar model.
Also, the cabin is very comfortable, with the right amount of high-quality materials and tech updates. The Ridgeline Type R is still under development. But, according to the latest reports, it will be ready for the streets in the second half of 2020. With the Ridgeline Type R, you’ll find a unique suspension, powerful engine, attractive look, and most exquisite comfort in the class.
2021 Honda Ridgeline Exterior Design
The forthcoming 2021 Honda Ridgeline Type R brings a more visually appealing design than the regular model. Therefore, expect that the mid-size Type R will provide better aerodynamics and more elegant styling. This version will add a couple of unique features to emphasize the exclusive styling even further. Also, some of the existing features will go through a redesign to give the exterior a new, fresh look. One of such features will be the vents, which will become larger and the air intakes as well.
Furthermore, the front fascia gets a blacked-out grille and refined bumpers. The similar design language you can see on the Civic Type R model. But, Honda,s high-performance vehicle rocks the famous three-section grille and a bigger scoop. Like every other Type R labeled model, the Ridgeline will carry a lot of red accents. The mid-size truck rolls on 19-inch wheels, while the 20-inches comes as optional. The rear side includes a two-way tailgate, in-bed trunk, and a remodeled taillights.
Interior
Inside the 2021 Honda Ridgeline Type R, you’ll find premium details and enough space for adult passengers. The premium features include the new, sportier steering wheel, leather upholstery, contrast stitching, and plenty of red accents.
Moreover, a flat-bottom steering wheel gives a unique look. The innovative gauge cluster will be part of standard equipment, as well as the large tachometer. On top of that, the clutch pedal and refined gearshift are available also. The control buttons are nicely arranged, and the whole cabin is very driver-oriented.
2021 Honda Ridgeline Type R Engine
Of course, when it comes to high-performance vehicles, the most exciting part is the engine room. Just like the standard model, 2021 Honda Ridgeline Type R will use a 3.5-liter V6 engine. But, this mill will see some improvements to ensure better output. For a start, the Japanese automaker will install a turbocharger. As a result, the total output will jump from 280 hp/262 lb-ft of torque to outstanding 450 hp/420 lb-ft of torque.
Moreover, the direct-injection fuel setup and VTEC system are included as well. With these updates, Ridgeline Type will provide far better performances than the similar models in the class. The all-wheel-drive setup is standard, and it will ensure that the Ridgeline Type R reaches its maximum potential.
Release Date and Price
2021 Honda Ridgeline Type R will have a starting price of around $50,000. That’s higher starting value than the regular model’s range-topping Black Edition trim. The upcoming Type R will represent the first high-performance truck built by the Japanese company.
The official release date is still unknown. But, according to the reports, the Ridgeline Type R will be ready in the second half of 2020. The main rivals in the mid-size class will be Ford Ranger Raptor and Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro.
The picture shows the old style bed with the sloped sides but the description says 2021! That’s a deal breaker for me if they’re going back to the old design. Ugly! The seats will have options as well I hope. I don’t want bright upholstery like this. I don’t know. I’ll need to try one out first and then decide.
David, I like the old Ridgeline bed style. The design was ahead of its time. Have you seen the Tesla Cyber truck? Honda should have stuck closer to the old design in my opinion. If you are getting a non-conformist unibody truck, then why not go non-conformist design? Which by the way, if you need a stereo typical “manly” truck design I would say you are not secure in your masculinity and are trying to make up for a lack of something. You also are stuck in foolish traditions of the past. The Ridgeline performs better on the road than all other trucks in its class and is more useful and convenient as a non-commercial family truck! Body on frame with solid axles is such old tech as old as cars have been around. Unibody with 4 wheel independent suspension is new tech and better for everything but pure off-road. Personally, I love the picture of the type R concept here. I would also like to see how it looked with a higher ride height for ground clearance. I love driving over curbs with my Pilot when they get in the way. ? I hope the type R ups the payload and towing capacity! Perfect for towing a small RV trailer.
I just bought a 2020 Ridgeline. It is a nice vehicle, but clearly not equipped for any kind of off roading beyond “improved” dirt roads. The Forest roads around here are really bad and I won’t be able to use my new truck on them unless I carry JB weld to fix holes in the oil pan!
This “truck” has only about 8 in of ground clearance and no decent underbody protection. Even my wife thought I should walk away from the sale. Aftermarket skid plates are a joke because they’re anchored on flimsy suspension parts and a plastic front spoiler that will get sheared off on the first rock.
I think they should give up and bring back the Subaru Brat, it has as much to offer as Ridgeline!
This looks like it will be a 400+ HP pavement machine – think Dodge SRT or GMC cyclone. This makes a certain amount of sense given the RL’s limitations as an off road truck, but it’s not what I would be looking for.
I as well like the non traditional look of the rear. One thing lacking would be color options in the interior. For the money it would be nice to have some choices of color in an area you will be spending time in.
If they make a 450 horsepower Ridgeline, I’ll buy one!
I’ll believe it when I see it. They’ve been teasing us with these rumors for the last three years. Either do it, or shut up about it.
Is the final design been set? I don’t like the slope roofline of past, but I really like the 450 hp
When will it be available for sale?
I HAVE WORKED FOR HONDA FOR 20+ YEARS, THEY ARE A FAMILY ORIENTED CAR COMPANY. I CAN`T BELIEVE THEY FINALLY PUT TURBOS IN THERE CARS, BUT PUTTING ONE ON A V-6. I DON`T BELIEVE IT. NOW IT`S THE END OF 2021, STILL NO WORD OF IT. I`M NOT HOLDING MY BREATH.
I OWN A 2006 RLINE 300K, I LOVE THE OLD BODY STYLE, BUT IF THEY MADE THIS I WOULD BUY IT.