Not really being a truck guy (although I own one out of necessity), I wasn’t really expecting a whole lot from the new 2006 Honda Ridgeline. After all, it’s the company’s first attempt at creating a pickup truck. I must admit, though, that the Ridgeline pleasantly surprised me.

The first thing I noticed upon entering the cab was a car-like feel of luxury. Unlike many other trucks in this class, the Ridgeline’s interior doesn’t have a cheap plastic feel. Controls are well placed and easy to use, and there’s plenty of room and comfort for front and rear passengers.

On the first leg of my drive I opted for a twisty local highway. To my surprise, the 2006 Honda Ridgeline performed exceptionally well in terms of both performance and handling. Power always seemed to be available when calling upon the V6 engine and navigating corners was surprisingly easy with minimal understeer. Despite its taut handling character, the Ridgeline also produced a smooth ride.

Though the 247-horsepower V6 engine was impressively proficient during my drive and is more than adequate for those trips to Home Depot, I doubt that the Ridgeline will be taken seriously by real truck buyers until a V8 motor makes its way under the hood. Honda has taken steps to try and attract tough-truck buyers though, by offering as standard equipment a high capacity radiator with dual 160-watt fans, power steering and automatic transmission coolers, and a 5,000-lb. towing capacity. I guess the real question here is: Which market is Honda hoping to attract, the serious truck buyer or the do-it-yourself homeowner who desires the utility of a truck with car-like creature comforts?

My biggest disappointment with the 2006 Honda Ridgeline is its lack of distinctive styling. At first glance it could be mistaken for a next-generation Chevy Avalanche. Though the lines are cleaner than the plastic add-on looks of the Avalanche, the Ridgeline lacks the rugged look necessary to set it apart from its competitors. With other manufacturers putting such an emphasis on original design, I have to wonder why Honda took the old road of borrowing from an existing design and putting their own twist on it. Originality goes a long way in my book.

Nevertheless, the 2006 Ridgeline is a very good first attempt at a truck for Honda. With its comfort, handling and performance the Ridgeline is a great vehicle for the homeowner that occasionally finds the need for a truck but wants to retain the refinement and comfort of a luxury car. – Ron Perry