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Is the Honda Ridgeline built on the Pilot frame?


The Honda Ridgeline is a unique pickup truck that stands out in its class due to its unibody construction and car-like driving dynamics. A common question among automotive enthusiasts and potential buyers is whether the Ridgeline shares its frame with the Honda Pilot. Let’s dive into the details to clarify this connection.


The Shared Platform: Honda's Global Light Truck Architecture


Yes, the Honda Ridgeline is built on the same platform as the Honda Pilot. Both vehicles utilize Honda's Global Light Truck platform, which is also shared with the Honda Passport and the Honda Odyssey. This unibody platform is designed to provide a smoother ride and better handling compared to traditional body-on-frame trucks.


What Does This Mean for the Ridgeline?


Sharing the Pilot's platform gives the Ridgeline several advantages over traditional pickup trucks:



  • Car-Like Comfort: The unibody construction allows for a more refined and comfortable ride, similar to what you’d expect from an SUV.

  • Improved Handling: The Ridgeline benefits from the Pilot's independent suspension system, making it easier to maneuver and more stable on the road.

  • Innovative Features: The shared platform enables Honda to incorporate unique features like the in-bed trunk and dual-action tailgate, which are hallmarks of the Ridgeline.


How Does It Differ from the Pilot?


While the Ridgeline and Pilot share the same platform, there are key differences that make the Ridgeline a capable pickup truck:



  • Reinforced Bed and Frame: The Ridgeline's rear structure is reinforced to handle the demands of hauling and towing.

  • Truck-Specific Features: The Ridgeline includes features like a durable composite truck bed and a higher payload capacity.

  • Styling: The Ridgeline has a more rugged, truck-like appearance compared to the Pilot's SUV design.


Conclusion


The Honda Ridgeline's connection to the Pilot is a testament to Honda's innovative engineering. By leveraging the Pilot's platform, the Ridgeline offers a unique blend of comfort, practicality, and capability that appeals to a wide range of drivers. Whether you're looking for a truck for everyday use or occasional heavy lifting, the Ridgeline's SUV roots make it a standout choice in the midsize pickup segment.


Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Honda Ridgeline built on the Pilot chassis?


The second-generation Ridgeline took a different approach in design from the first generation Ridgeline by sharing Honda's new "global light truck platform," used for the third-generation Honda Pilot as well as other large Honda vehicles.



What platform is the Honda Pilot built on?


unibody
The Pilot shares its platform with the Acura MDX, as well as the North American market Odyssey minivan. The Pilot's unibody construction and independent suspension are designed to provide handling similar to that of a car, and it has integrated perimeter frame rails to permit towing and light off-road use.



Why is the Honda Ridgeline not selling?


Rather than a typical pickup truck. So the whole driving. Experience with the ridgel. Line is far more enjoyable compared to trucks like the Chevy Colorado. And Ford Ranger.



Is the Honda Ridgeline on a truck frame?


Other trucks have a separate cab and bed set on a flexible ladder-type frame; the Ridgeline instead uses an advanced one-piece unit-body cab and bed, with an integrated frame.



What are the negatives on a Honda Ridgeline?


Cons of the Honda Ridgeline:
Off-Road Capability: While the Ridgeline's all-wheel-drive system provides adequate traction in various driving conditions, it may not be as capable off-road as some traditional body-on-frame trucks with dedicated four-wheel-drive systems.



Which is better, Honda Ridgeline or Toyota Tacoma?


Toyota Tacoma trucks will reveal many competitive advantages to a 2022 Honda Ridgeline. You'll find additional standard safety features, more horsepower, standard all-wheel drive (a Toyota Tacoma offers it as an option), a more spacious interior, a longer and wider truck bed, better fuel efficiency, and more benefits.



Are the Honda Ridgeline and Pilot the same?


The Pilot is the perfect family SUV, combining spaciousness, technology, and safety features that make every drive comfortable and worry-free. The Ridgeline, on the other hand, is a versatile pickup that brings together off-road capabilities, practical storage solutions, and the comfort of a well-designed cabin.



What platform is the Honda Ridgeline built on?


unibody platform
Built on the unibody platform shared with the Pilot SUV and Odyssey minivan, the 2025 Ridgeline is available exclusively as a four-door crew cab with a five-foot bed.



Is the Honda Pilot on a truck chassis?


Is The Honda Pilot Based On A Car Or Truck Frame? The Honda Pilot has a unit body construction. This construction method combines the vehicle body and the frame to create a strong structure. This allows it to support the vehicle's weight above and below.



Is the Honda Pilot built on a truck frame?


Is The Honda Pilot Based On A Car Or Truck Frame? The Honda Pilot has a unit body construction. This construction method combines the vehicle body and the frame to create a strong structure. This allows it to support the vehicle's weight above and below.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.