When it comes to midsize pickup trucks, the Toyota Tacoma and Honda Ridgeline are two of the most popular options on the market. While both vehicles offer a range of features and capabilities, there are some compelling reasons to choose the Toyota Tacoma over the Honda Ridgeline, particularly if you value a more sturdy truck-based underpinnings and superior off-road capability.
- Off-road capabilities
One of the biggest advantages of the Toyota Tacoma over the Honda Ridgeline is its off-road capabilities. The Tacoma is built to handle rough terrain, with features like high ground clearance, skid plates, and an optional off-road suspension system. Whether you're navigating rocky trails or sandy dunes, the Tacoma is designed to keep you in control and safe.
- Towing capacity
If you need a pickup truck for heavy-duty towing, the Toyota Tacoma is a better option than the Honda Ridgeline. The Tacoma can tow up to 6,800 pounds, while the Ridgeline has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. This makes the Tacoma a better choice if you need to tow boats, trailers, or other heavy equipment.
- Truck-based underpinnings
Another advantage of the Toyota Tacoma is its more sturdy truck-based underpinnings. The Tacoma is built on a truck frame, which makes it more durable and capable of handling heavy loads. The Ridgeline, on the other hand, is built on a unibody platform, which is more common in cars and SUVs. While the unibody design can provide a smoother ride, it may not be as rugged and durable as a truck frame.
- Customizability
The Toyota Tacoma is known for its extensive customization options, with a range of accessories and modifications available to suit different needs and preferences. Whether you want to add a roof rack, bed extender, or off-road lights, there are many options to choose from. The Honda Ridgeline, on the other hand, has fewer customization options available.
- Resale value
Finally, the Toyota Tacoma has a reputation for holding its value well over time. In fact, the Tacoma has consistently been rated as one of the vehicles with the highest resale value by industry experts like Kelley Blue Book. This means that if you decide to sell your Tacoma in the future, you may be able to get a higher price for it than you would for a Ridgeline.
Conclusion
While the Honda Ridgeline is a solid pickup truck with many appealing features, there are several compelling reasons to choose the Toyota Tacoma over the Ridgeline. With its superior off-road capabilities, higher towing capacity, more sturdy truck-based underpinnings, extensive customization options, and reputation for holding its value well over time, the Tacoma is a top choice for anyone in the market for a midsize pickup truck.