Honda Ridgeline

The Ridgeline is built solid to take punishment. The 5000-lb towing capacity and 1550-lb total payload capacity make small work of big jobs. Its strength comes from an integrated closed-box frame with unibody construction and powerful, 247 hp, V-6 engine. It's no wonder the Ridgeline has won countless awards, including Motor Trend Truck of the Year for 2006 and AJAC Truck of the Year and Best New Pickup for 2006.

The Ridgeline also lays claim to heavy-duty safety, efficiency and a big dose of durability. It even earned the NHTSA quadruple 5-star safety rating for both front & side impacts in 2006. Advanced Honda engineering is also behind the 3.5-litre V6 engine's blend of surprising fuel efficiency, low emissions and abundant power – all on regular unleaded gas. It begins with a high 10:1 compression ratio. Then adds Honda's patented Variable valve Timing and lift Electronic Control (VTEC®) as well as a two-stage intake manifold. These systems work together to maximize torque at lower engine speeds and boost horsepower as engine speeds increase. A unique fresh-air intake helps keep output strong even in high-temperature, heavy-duty driving and towing conditions.

It won't matter if your adventures take you on-road or off-road. Honda's sophisticated Variable Torque Management™ 4-wheel drive (VTM-4®) system can handle just about anything, from a slick, steep boat ramp to a rough-and-tumble back road – instantly directing power to the wheels with the best traction. And with a refined, fully independent suspension, that go-anywhere attitude comes in a curve-hugging, fun-to-drive package. Inside, you get comfort as well as utility. Wide, supportive seats. Powerful audio system. Available leather trim and heated seats. And one tool you may not be able to do without: Honda's optional Navigation System with bilingual Voice Recognition™ with steering wheel-mounted controls. Outside, Ridgeline boasts some serious utility, like the super-durable steel-reinforced composite (SRC) cargo bed with lockable In-Bed Trunk™. It has 241 litres of secure storage space that you won't find on any other pickup. For quick access, you can even swing the dual-action tailgate to the side.

All this may be a bit more than you'd expect from a pickup truck. But it's exactly what you'd expect from a Honda.