Is Honda Ridgeline good in the snow?
Yes. With its all-wheel-drive system and prudent tire choices, the Ridgeline handles light to moderate snow fairly well. It’s not a dedicated snow vehicle, however, and deep powder or icy, steep terrain will test its limits.
Snow presents a specific set of challenges for any pickup, and the Ridgeline’s design straddles carlike comfort and pickup practicality. This article examines how its AWD system, ground clearance, and overall chassis behave on winter roads, what buyers should know before driving in snow, and how it stacks up against more rugged, traditional 4x4 trucks.
How the AWD system helps in snow
To understand snow performance, it helps to start with the Ridgeline’s drivetrain and how it distributes power when tires slip. The Ridgeline relies on Honda’s Intelligent Variable Torque Management (i-VTM4) AWD system, which actively distributes torque between the front and rear axles and can bias power to individual wheels on the rear for improved grip in slick conditions. Note that this is not a low-range, body-on-frame 4x4 with a dedicated transfer case; it’s an on-demand system designed for on-road confidence and light off-road use.
- i-VTM4 AWD with variable torque distribution to the rear axle and left/right rear wheels, helping traction on slippery surfaces.
- Absence of a true low-range gear; there is no dedicated 4WD Low mode, so very deep snow or extreme off-roading is outside its target use.
- Ground clearance around 7.3 inches (varies by trim and wheel/tire setup), which aids in clearing light drifts but isn’t enough for deep powder.
- Reliance on tires: winter tires or all-season tires with good winter performance are crucial to maximizing traction.
- Stability and braking aids, such as Vehicle Stability Assist and anti-lock brakes, help maintain control on icy or slushy roads.
In snow, these attributes translate to a capable daily driver that can manage typical city streets and light rural winter roads with confidence, especially when equipped with proper winter tires. It’s not built to conquer extreme winter terrain that requires specialized hardware.
Important limitations
Prospective buyers should keep in mind that the Ridgeline’s i-VTM4 system is designed for traction rather than off-road brute force, and the vehicle lacks a true low-range gearbox. In deep snow, packed ice, or steep grades, a more rugged, traditional 4x4 with a low range or locking capability may be preferable.
Practical tips for snow driving with the Ridgeline
Before venturing into winter conditions, here are practical guidelines to maximize the Ridgeline’s snow performance.
- Equipping proper winter tires is essential; all-season tires rarely deliver the same level of grip in snow and ice as dedicated winter tires.
- Keep speeds moderate and allow for longer stopping distances; AWD helps with traction but doesn’t negate the physics of braking on slippery surfaces.
- Use careful throttle inputs and smooth steering to reduce wheel spin, especially when starting from a stop or accelerating on ice.
- Monitor tire pressure and ensure it’s appropriate for cold temperatures, as pressure changes can affect traction.
- Carry essential winter safety gear (ice scraper, traction aids, a small blanket, and a flashlight) in case you get stuck or stranded.
With the right tires and cautious driving, the Ridgeline remains a solid choice for winter commuting and light-duty snow-hauling. Its unibody design and AWD aren’t substitutes for a true off-road setup, but they do offer predictable behavior on snowy streets and salted highways.
What reviewers and owners say
Automotive outlets commonly note that the Ridgeline’s AWD contributes to stable winter handling and a comfortable ride, while its unibody construction keeps the ride smooth but limits extreme off-road capability. Critics often point to the absence of a low-range option as the main caveat for very deep snow or off-p-pavement conditions, and they emphasize the importance of winter tires and prudent driving in challenging weather.
In everyday winter use, the Ridgeline tends to perform well enough for most drivers who don’t require aggressive off-road capability. For those who regularly navigate rural or icy back roads, pairing the Ridgeline with high-quality winter tires is the single most impactful upgrade.
Summary
The Honda Ridgeline is generally competent in snowy conditions thanks to its i-VTM4 AWD system, safety features, and the availability of proper winter tires. It excels as a comfortable, well-behaved winter driver for urban and light-country use. Its main limitations are the lack of a true low-range 4x4 and its unibody design, which make deep snow, ice, or difficult off-road terrain more challenging than purpose-built 4x4 trucks. For most winter commuting needs, the Ridgeline offers a reliable, practical solution when equipped with good winter tires and driven with sensible caution.
