It would seem Honda has covered all of the usual 4WD pickup bases with the Ridgeline, and then some. Whether in base form or

The Ridgeline offers tremendous comfort, convenience and performance in a high-value package. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

up a notch or two, the Ridgeline offers tremendous comfort, convenience and performance in a high-value package. My top-tier EX-L NAVI (RTL in the U.S.) tester spoils its occupants with leather, dual-zone climate control, premium six-disc in-dash audio, voice-activated navigation and much more. Base-level goodies include air conditioning, power windows (including rear window) power locks, cruise control, tilt steering, 60/40 lift-up rear seat with under seat storage and more.

It will be interesting to watch the Ridgeline sales charts. This is a great pickup for the non-pickup crowd, but whether it's perceived as rugged enough to pull 'good old boys' out of their domestic iron waits to be seen. For me it's a no-brainer - I'll take the Honda.

• Price Range (MSRP): $34,800 - $43,900
• Body Type: 4-door pickup truck, fully-integrated closed-boxed frame
• Layout: front engine, 4WD
• Engine: 255 hp, 252 lb-ft of torque, 3.5L, SOHC, 24-valve V6
• Transmission: 5-spd auto
• Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS, EBD
• Curb Weight: 2,064 kg (4,550 lbs)
• Gross Vehicle Weight: 2,745 kg (6,039 lbs)
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Cargo Volume (trunk): 74 L (2.6 cu ft)
• Cargo Capacity (max in bed): 705 kg (1,550 lbs)
• Towing Capacity: 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs)
• External Dimensions (L/W/H/WB): 5,253 / 1,786 / 1,938 / 3,100 mm (206.8 / 70.3 / 76.3 / 122.0 in)
• Turning Circle: 12.9 m (42.3 ft)
• Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 14.4 / 10.1 L/100 km
• Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
• Direct Competitors: Chevrolet Colorado, Dodge Dakota, Ford Ranger, GMC Canyon, Mitsubishi Raider, Nissan Frontier, Toyota Tacoma
• Web Site: www.honda.ca