2025 Honda Ridgeline MPG: Fuel Efficiency Guide

Ever wondered how far a truck can take you without breaking the bank at the pump? The Honda Ridgeline, with its unique blend of rugged utility and car-like refinement, has been turning heads for years. But when it comes to fuel efficiency, does it live up to the hype? Whether you’re hauling gear for a weekend adventure or navigating city streets, the Honda Ridgeline MPG is a critical factor that can make or break your driving experience. Let’s dive into the numbers, explore what makes this truck tick, and answer the questions burning in your mind about its fuel economy, performance, and more.

What Is the Honda Ridgeline MPG for 2025?

The 2025 Honda Ridgeline strikes a balance between power and efficiency, making it a standout in the midsize pickup segment. Equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine and all-wheel drive (AWD), the Ridgeline delivers solid fuel economy for a truck of its caliber. Here’s how the MPG breaks down across its trims:

• Sport, RTL, and Black Edition: 18 city / 24 highway / 21 combined MPG.
• TrailSport: 18 city / 23 highway / 20 combined MPG, slightly lower due to its off-road-tuned suspension and all-terrain tires.

These figures come from EPA estimates, which assume a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving. In real-world conditions, owners report averages closer to 20.3–21.3 MPG, depending on driving habits and terrain, according to data from Fuelly.com. Compared to competitors like the Ford Maverick (up to 42 city MPG for its hybrid model) or the Toyota Tacoma (20–23 combined MPG for non-hybrid trims), the Ridgeline holds its own, especially for those prioritizing a smooth ride over pure efficiency.

Why Does the TrailSport Trim Have Lower MPG?

The TrailSport trim sacrifices a touch of fuel economy for enhanced off-road capability. Its all-terrain tires and tweaked suspension increase rolling resistance and weight, dropping the highway MPG by one compared to other trims. But for adventurers tackling muddy trails or sandy dunes, that trade-off is worth it. Have you ever had to choose between efficiency and capability? The Ridgeline TrailSport lets you have both, just with a slight nod toward ruggedness.

Is There a Honda Ridgeline Hybrid?

Rumors about a Honda Ridgeline hybrid have swirled for years, especially as competitors like the Ford Maverick offer hybrid options. As of 2025, Honda has not released a hybrid version of the Ridgeline. Some sources, like Honda of Cleveland Heights, speculate about a potential hybrid model with estimated MPG figures of 22–24 city and 30–34 highway, but these are unconfirmed projections. For now, the Ridgeline relies on its V6 engine and features like the Eco Assist™ System, which optimizes throttle response and shift patterns to boost efficiency by up to 9% in certain conditions.

People Also Ask: Will Honda Release a Ridgeline Hybrid in the Future?

While Honda hasn’t confirmed a hybrid Ridgeline, the brand’s push toward electrification—seen in models like the CR-V Hybrid and Accord Hybrid—suggests it’s only a matter of time. Industry trends point to 2026 or 2027 as a potential timeline for a hybrid or even a plug-in hybrid Ridgeline. Until then, the standard V6 with its 21 combined MPG remains a reliable choice for those who need power without excessive fuel costs. Curious about hybrid trucks? Check out how the Ford Maverick hybrid stacks up for comparison.

Honda Ridgeline MPG by Year: A Historical Look

The Ridgeline’s fuel economy has evolved since its debut in 2006. Here’s a snapshot of its combined MPG across model years, based on data from Fuelly and AutoPadre:

• 2006–2014 (First Generation): 16.2–17.5 MPG. These early models used a less efficient 3.5L V6 and a 5-speed automatic transmission.
• 2017–2020 (Second Generation): 20.2–22.5 MPG. The switch to a 9-speed automatic and lighter unibody construction improved efficiency.
• 2021–2022: 21 MPG (18 city / 24 highway). Refinements in engine tuning and aerodynamics kept numbers steady.
• 2023–2025: 20–21 MPG, with the TrailSport trim dipping to 20 MPG due to off-road enhancements.

The Ridgeline’s unibody design, shared with the Honda Pilot, gives it an edge over body-on-frame trucks like the Toyota Tacoma, which often struggle to match its efficiency. Over the years, Honda has fine-tuned the Ridgeline to balance power (280 horsepower) with respectable fuel economy, making it a practical choice for daily drivers and weekend warriors alike.

How Does Real-World MPG Compare to EPA Estimates?

Real-world MPG often differs from EPA ratings due to factors like driving style, weather, and load. On platforms like Reddit, Ridgeline owners share mixed experiences:

• City Driving: Some report 16–18 MPG in stop-and-go traffic, slightly below EPA estimates.
• Highway Cruising: Owners frequently hit 23–25 MPG on long trips, aligning closely with EPA figures.
• Towing: When towing up to the Ridgeline’s 5,000-pound capacity, MPG can drop to 14–16, depending on the load.

Ever notice how your driving habits affect your fuel economy? The Ridgeline rewards smooth acceleration and steady speeds, thanks to features like Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM), which deactivates cylinders during light loads to save fuel.

How Does the Honda Ridgeline Compare to Competitors?

When shopping for a midsize truck, fuel economy is just one piece of the puzzle. Let’s see how the 2025 Honda Ridgeline stacks up against the Ford Maverick and Toyota Tacoma:

• Ford Maverick (Hybrid): 42 city / 33 highway / 37 combined MPG. Its 2.5L hybrid engine is a fuel-sipper, but it’s limited to 2,000 pounds of towing capacity, far below the Ridgeline’s 5,000 pounds.
• Toyota Tacoma (Non-Hybrid): 20 city / 23 highway / 21 combined MPG. The Tacoma’s 2.4L turbo-4 offers similar efficiency but a rougher ride compared to the Ridgeline’s car-like handling.
• Honda Ridgeline: 18 city / 24 highway / 21 combined MPG. Its V6 delivers 280 horsepower and a refined ride, making it ideal for those who want truck utility without sacrificing comfort.

For a deeper dive into another high-performance vehicle, check out the 2025 Camaro ZL1 for a contrast in power and style.

People Also Ask: Is the Honda Ridgeline Worth Its Price for the MPG?

Starting at $40,150 for the 2025 Sport trim and reaching $47,280 for the TrailSport+, the Ridgeline isn’t the cheapest midsize truck. However, its value shines through in:

• Standard AWD: Unlike the Maverick or Tacoma, which offer FWD or 2WD base models, every Ridgeline comes with AWD for better traction and resale value.
• Versatile Features: The dual-action tailgate, lockable in-bed trunk, and spacious cabin add utility that competitors struggle to match.
• Reliability: Honda’s reputation for durability means fewer maintenance costs over time, offsetting fuel expenses.

If you’re weighing cost versus efficiency, the Ridgeline’s balance of MPG, capability, and comfort makes it a strong contender. What’s more important to you—saving at the pump or having a truck that feels like a luxury SUV?

2025 Honda Ridgeline Configurations and Their Impact on MPG

The 2025 Ridgeline offers seven trims, each with distinct features that can influence fuel economy:

1. Sport ($40,150): Base model with 18-inch alloys and standard AWD. 21 MPG combined.
2. Sport+ ($42,050): Adds premium features like a moonroof, maintaining 21 MPG.
3. RTL ($42,980): Leather-trimmed seats and heated steering wheel; 21 MPG.
4. RTL+ ($44,880): Upgrades like navigation and a premium audio system; 21 MPG.
5. TrailSport ($45,380): Off-road tires and suspension; 20 MPG combined.
6. TrailSport+ ($47,280): Enhanced tech and styling; 20 MPG.
7. Black Edition ($46,750): Sporty aesthetics with 21 MPG.

The choice of trim depends on your priorities. If off-road adventures are your thing, the TrailSport’s slight MPG dip is a fair trade. For daily commuting, the RTL or Sport trims maximize efficiency without skimping on features.

People Also Ask: How Does Towing Affect Ridgeline MPG?

The Ridgeline’s 5,000-pound towing capacity is respectable for a midsize truck, but towing heavy loads impacts fuel economy. Owners report MPG dropping to 14–16 when towing near the max capacity, compared to 20–21 MPG under normal conditions. To minimize the hit:

• Use a trailer with aerodynamic design to reduce drag.
• Avoid aggressive acceleration when towing.
• Engage Eco Assist™ to optimize fuel use.

Planning a big haul? The Ridgeline’s V6 and 9-speed automatic ensure smooth towing, but you’ll want to budget for extra fuel stops.

Tips to Maximize Your Honda Ridgeline MPG

Want to squeeze every mile out of your Ridgeline’s 19.5-gallon tank? Try these strategies:

• Use Eco Assist™: This system adjusts engine and transmission settings for better efficiency.
• Maintain Proper Tire Pressure: Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, reducing MPG.
• Avoid Idling: The Ridgeline’s Idle-Stop feature shuts off the engine at stoplights, saving fuel.
• Plan Routes Wisely: Combine errands to reduce cold starts, which burn more gas.
• Lighten the Load: Remove unnecessary cargo from the bed or in-bed trunk to improve efficiency.

For more insights on vehicle efficiency, visit EPA’s Fuel Economy Guide for tips tailored to your driving habits.

Why Choose the Honda Ridgeline for Fuel Efficiency?

The Honda Ridgeline isn’t just about MPG—it’s about delivering a truck that feels like a car, hauls like a beast, and sips fuel responsibly. Its unibody construction, powerful yet efficient V6, and smart tech like Eco Assist™ make it a top pick for drivers who want versatility without the gas-guzzling guilt. Whether you’re comparing it to the Ford Maverick’s hybrid efficiency or the Toyota Tacoma’s rugged appeal, the Ridgeline carves out a unique niche.

So, what’s stopping you from hitting the road in a Ridgeline? With 21 MPG combined, 280 horsepower, and a suite of features that make every drive a pleasure, it’s a truck that checks all the boxes. Test drive one today and see why owners rave about its blend of efficiency and adventure.