Honda Tweaks 2009 Ridgeline

The 2009 Honda Ridgeline gets a fancy grille reminiscent of Honda's 2009 Pilot, plus a raft of other upgrades and tweaks, the Japanese automaker says.

The "bolder" look outside will no doubt be controversial, as it's been on the big Honda crossover vehicle that emerged for the 2009 model year. Dare to say, the look works better on the already awkward Ridgeline: Honda says the restyling creates a "more chiseled" appearance. Inside, the Ridgeline gets new gauges and a new steering wheel, reworked controls for the climate control and audio system, and new power outlets and MP3 jacks.

Active front seat headrests and daytime running lights are standard on the new Ridgeline, as is a trailer hitch and available Bluetooth and rearview backup camera.

The Ridgeline's powertrain continues to be a 250-horsepower V-6 teamed with a five-speed automatic. It's three horsepower stronger, and the torque curve's been shifted lower for better pulling power, Honda says--though fuel economy is untouched at 15/20 mpg. The Ridgeline's five-foot bed is now offered with a motorcycle bed extender and bike attachments, too. 2009 Honda RidgelineEnlarge PhotoThe 2009 Honda Ridgeline gets a fancy grille reminiscent of Honda's 2009 Pilot, plus a raft of other upgrades and tweaks, the Japanese automaker says. The "bolder" look outside will no doubt be controversial, as it's been on the big Honda crossover vehicle that emerged for the 2009 model year. Dare to say, the look works better on the already awkward Ridgeline: Honda says the restyling creates a "more chiseled" appearance. Inside, the Ridgeline gets new gauges and a new steering wheel, reworked controls for the climate control and audio system, and new power outlets and MP3 jacks. Active front seat headrests and daytime running lights are standard on the new Ridgeline, as is a trailer hitch and available Bluetooth and rearview backup camera. The Ridgeline's powertrain continues to be a 250-horsepower V-6 teamed with a five-speed automatic. It's three horsepower stronger, and the torque curve's been shifted lower for better pulling power, Honda says--though fuel economy is untouched at 15/20 mpg. The Ridgeline's five-foot bed is now offered with a motorcycle bed extender and bike attachments, too.