If you want to tow a camper trailer but don’t want a huge diesel truck, you may worry you’re out of luck… but it’s not true!
Many mid-size SUVs and small to midsize pickups have surprisingly high towing capacities.
If you’re looking for a mid-size pickup, the Honda Ridgeline is an excellent choice. But just how much can a Honda Ridgeline tow? Let’s dive in.
About the Honda Ridgeline
The Honda Ridgeline stands out in the world of midsize trucks with its unique combination of rugged utility and refined comfort. Unlike traditional body-on-frame trucks, the Ridgeline is built on a unibody platform, giving it a smoother, car-like ride without sacrificing capability. Powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, it delivers 280 horsepower.
One of the Ridgeline’s most innovative features is its dual-action tailgate, which opens both downwards and to the side, along with the in-bed trunk that offers secure, weatherproof storage. The truck bed also comes with built-in speakers, perfect for outdoor entertainment during camping trips.
Inside, the Ridgeline is packed with modern technology and comfortable seating, making it as suitable for daily driving as it is for outdoor adventures.
With a starting MSRP of around $39,000, the Honda Ridgeline offers a versatile balance of practicality, performance, and comfort, making it a solid choice for those who need a capable yet refined truck.
Honda Ridgeline Towing Capacity
The Honda Ridgeline is built for versatility, and its towing capacity is no exception. Powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, the Ridgeline delivers 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, giving it the strength to tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. This makes it ideal for hauling small to medium-sized trailers, boats, or even an RV, perfect for weekend getaways or extended road trips.
One of the key factors behind the Ridgeline’s towing prowess is its advanced all-wheel-drive system, which provides excellent traction and stability, even when pulling heavy loads. Paired with Honda’s smooth 9-speed automatic transmission, the Ridgeline ensures a confident and controlled towing experience, whether you’re navigating mountain roads or cruising on the highway.
While the Ridgeline’s towing capacity may not match heavy-duty trucks, its balance of power, handling, and comfort makes it a solid choice for RVers and adventurers looking for a truck that can handle their outdoor gear without compromising everyday drivability.
Can the Honda Ridgeline Tow a Camper Trailer?
Although it isn’t as powerful as many pickups on the market, the Honda Ridgeline can tow a camper trailer. Advances in engineering have resulted in lighter and lighter trailers. Even with the all-wheel-drive tow capacity of 3,500 pounds, you’ll still have lots of options for towing an RV.
What Kind of RVs Can Be Towed with the Honda Ridgeline?
The Honda Ridgeline can tow several styles of RV. Even with a 3,500-pound tow capacity, you’ll be able to tow the following options. And if you opt for the all-wheel-drive version, you’ll be able to tow larger travel trailers.
One type of camper trailer you can tow with a Honda Ridgeline is a pop-up trailer. These trailers are extremely lightweight because of their canvas siding and minimalist interior. You could easily town these trailers with the Ridgeline. But since you could tow a lot more weight, a pop-up may not be the best choice.
Another option is a teardrop trailer. These campers usually weigh a maximum of 4,000 pounds. This lightweight design means you can easily tow and teardrop trailer with the all-wheel-drive Honda Ridgeline. Teardrop trailers are small and lightweight. Given the Honda Ridgeline tow capabilities, you can get one with all the amenities.
And last are small to midsize travel trailers, including the popular R-pod trailers. Many travel trailers weigh under 3,500 pounds thanks to their lightweight building material. If you opt for the all-wheel-drive Honda Ridgeline, you’ll have even more travel trailer options. Since this model tows up to 5,000 pounds, there is a range of travel trailers you can tow. The Ridgeline can take on some lightweight trailers up to 20 feet or longer.
This means you’ll be able to find a travel trailer with everything. Bedroom, bathroom, full kitchen, dinette, and so on.
Can You Tow a 5th Wheel With It?
If you are dreaming of a 5th wheel, the Honda Ridgeline tow capabilities are most likely not up to the challenge. Although there are a few 5th wheels on the market that weigh 5,000 pounds, that is their UNLOADED weight. The second you put anything inside (food, clothes, water!) your ability to safely tow with a Honda Ridgeline disappears.
So, if you’re looking for a 5th wheel, you’ll want a much more powerful truck for towing.
This Truck Does A Little Bit Of Everything
The Honda Ridgeline tow capabilities, smaller size, roomy interior, and improved gas mileage make it a versatile vehicle. If you are looking for a truck that can do a little of everything, it is a perfect choice.
So, if you don’t mind towing a smaller camper trailer, you’ll probably be quite happy with the Honda Ridgeline.
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I towed my 2015 Rockport MiniLite 2109s for 2 years with my 2007 Ridgeline and this summer will be my 5th year with my 2017 Ridgeline. The new truck tows the trailer better and does great. If the trailer were larger or heavier or as heavy as the newer versions of it, I’d have a larger truck. The truck is perfect for what I need and the (not while towing) highway fuel economy is fantastic at 29 mpg. t’s an excellent little truck.