Is the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL-E Actually Better Than the RTL?
One of the most well-reviewed pickup trucks of 2022 is the Honda Ridgeline. Many experts recommend it as one of the best overall midsize/compact trucks. With a high-quality interior, smooth ride, and much else going for it, the Ridgeline is an easy choice. Which trim level of the 2022 Honda Ridgeline is the best? One expert recommends the RTL-E, but another suggests the RTL. Moreover, customers like the RTL-E the best. Is the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL-E actually better than the RTL?
The 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL-E is the most popular trim
According to Edmunds, the most popular version of the 2022 Honda Ridgeline is the RTL-E trim level. Two steps above the base model, an RTL-E gains a lot for the price. Starting at $45,365, the Ridgeline RTL-E comes with navigation, wireless smartphone charging, front and rear parking sensors, and a heated steering wheel. Amenities like these raise the value much higher than lower trims, which aren’t much cheaper than the RTL-E.
Next, the most popular trim level has LED truck bed lights, an in-bed outlet, and truck-bed audio. We think cargo bed features like these should be standard in many more pickup trucks. Furthermore, the RTL-E also comes with an eight-speaker audio system, second-row USB ports, and more. Since it’s so packed with value, it’s no wonder customers mostly buy the Ridgeline RTL-E.
Experts disagree on the best Ridgeline trim
Edmunds agrees with customers that the best option is the RTL-E model. Calling it “the sweet spot,” Edmunds likes that it has more features than the Sport and RTL without being overpriced. In addition, it thinks the upper trims, like the Black Edition, are fabulous but don’t add enough to make it worth the money.
However, the experts at Car and Driver don’t recommend the RTL-E model. Contrarily, C/D likes the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL trim the best, which is one step below the RTL-E. Moreover, the publication thinks this version “has the best mix of desirable equipment and value.” It’s a decent step up from the base model Sport trim regarding standard features but doesn’t increase the price too much.
2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL standard features
Moving up from the base model, the Ridgeline Sport gives owners a lot of extras. On top of base features like Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and the Honda Sensing suite of safety features, one trim level up gets even better. For example, the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL comes with blind-spot monitoring, satellite radio, leather upholstery, heated front seats, a sunroof, and more. In addition, quality of life upgrades like a leather-wrapped steering wheel, noise-reducing front windshield, heated mirrors, and a sunroof bolster the lineup even more.
Finally, the RTL-exclusive standard features include a power-sliding rear window, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, driver’s seat memory settings, and power-adjustable front seats. In short, it offers much more than the base Sport model but doesn’t compare to the RTL-E. The value is decent, but it’s difficult to argue against buying the RTL-E for only a few thousand more dollars.
Is the Ridgeline RTL-E better than the RTL?
In conclusion, the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL-E is better than the RTL. Since it comes with so many more valuable features without raising the price too much, it’s very valuable. However, the RTL is an excellent choice as it offers much more than the base Sport model without breaking the bank. Both are well-equipped, but the minimal price increase to the RTL-E model with its added features makes it much more worth it.
