The mid-size Honda Ridgeline is the lone unibody design among the traditional body-on-frame models in the US. With the SUV-based platform and a fully independent suspension, the Ridgeline delivers almost car-like ride quality while also provides greater utility than SUVs. It can’t match the class towing top but still allows up to 5, 000 pounds of towing capability. The Ridgeline is also good not impressive in the fuel economy but also lacks some off-road prowess.
This unique pickup truck arrived the all-new as the 2017 version and returns unchanged for the 2019 model year. The 2020 model should, however, bring some styling changes and improved electronics. The new turbocharged powertrain like in the new Accord sedan could also be in the prospect. Honda also promised to electrify the entire light-truck range and the Ridgeline should also get the Accord-based hybrid system.
However, what Honda fans would likely need to get is a more off-road capable Ridgeline and the rumors also appeared about the 2020 Honda Ridgeline Type R. The racy version of the mid-size truck hasn’t been mentioned by Honda and chances for it are very slim. But the hot Civic hatch-inspired pickup truck version sounds attractive and would likely get a great attention.
2020 Honda Ridgeline Type R: How could it look?
If the 2020 Ridgeline would be to get the Type R suite, the styling would definitely draw the inspiration form the Civic Type R hatch.
The 2020 Honda Ridgeline Type R would appear with the blacked-out grille version and the red Honda badge in the middle. The racy theme would continue with the sportier front bumper and carbon fiber aero elements. The larger air intakes and probably the hood scoop would also add to the sportier stance. The red color accents on aero elements, wheels, brakes and badges would also improve the visual interest.
Honda would also use light-weight alloy wheels in 19- or 20-inch size and low-profile tires.
Interior:
Interior of the model would also adopt the racy theme. The performance bits would appear on the instrument cluster and the model would include the sports steering wheel and shift paddles.
The sports bucket seats with contrasting red pieces and Type R logos would be followed with contrasting pieces on the dash and door panels.
The model would also integrate the latest electronic features including the newest infotainment platform. All Ridgelines also uses Honda Sensing suite of the active safety systems and this would be the case with the racy Ridgeline version.
2020 Honda Ridgeline Type R: Performance
The current Ridgeline uses the Pilot-SUV sourced 3.5-liter V-6 engine. In the combination with the six-speed automatic, this unit provides 280 hp and torque of 262 pound-feet.
However, this engine wouldn’t be the great candidate for the rumored 2020 Honda Ridgeline Type R. The Accord sedan switched to the turbocharged units and the refreshed Ridgeline should also. The new Accord uses the detuned version of the 2.0-liter turbo-four engine from the Civic Type R hatch. This version makes 252 hp while the Civic gets 320 hp. The same engine tuned for the extra horsepower would be the solution for the Ridgeline Type R. Combined with the six-speed manual transmission it would provide the buyers to feel the ride better.
The Ridgeline Type R would also get the stiffer chassis and new suspension components.
2020 Honda Ridgeline Type R: Arrival, Price
No signs that Honda is coming up with the 2020 Honda Ridgeline Type R. Still, if this model appears sometime in 2019, the price is estimated to be just under $50, 000.
