Why the Chevy Colorado Is Better than the Honda Ridgeline
The 2019 Honda Ridgeline certainly showed up to the midsize truck stage this year in style and across many review platforms, has outperformed the competition. But, when it comes to overall comparisons between the Chevrolet Colorado, the Honda Ridgeline, and others in the midsize class, some critics claim the Colorado inched out the Ridgeline in a few key details. Today, we’ll highlight why some say the 2019 Chevrolet Colorado is better than the 2019 Honda Ridgeline.
Top of their class
Earlier this year, Car and Driver took a closer look at the four primary contenders in the midsize truck class. There were some hefty rivals, including the 2019 Ford Ranger, the 2020 Jeep Gladiator, the 2019 Honda Ridgeline, and the 2019 Chevy Colorado. Ford fans were excited about the reboot of the Ranger while Jeep enthusiasts cheered on the new truck version of their beloved classic. But, how did these four fair? Based on towing performance, highway driving, and a little mud, the Chevy Colorado came out on top. Coming in at number two was the Honda Ridgeline. Jeep’s Gladiator was ranked third while Ford’s Ranger came in fourth.
Where the Chevy Colorado loses
The 2019 Honda Ridgeline might receive a few jabs about how it looks like a minivan. However, the experts agree, the crossover ride might be one of its best features. In addition, it dominated with interior room and creature comforts. Some reviews cite that Ridgeline’s back seat might be the only midsize truck rear seating that adults would actually want to sit in – it’s just that roomy.
Another bonus feature that separates Ridgeline from the pack is the in-bed trunk. It’s a handy extra that no other truck in this class can offer. It’s an adaptation that seems to speak directly to the average midsize truck consumer, looking for daily life convenience. Honda takes the cake for those buyers looking for comfort, convenience, and everyday driving pleasure.
Downsides of the Honda Ridgeline
The Ridgeline, while exceeding expectations in a variety of other options, did fall short in comparison. In addition to the exterior design being a least favorite, some suggest the suspension and handling off-road wasn’t up to par. It has a lower towing capacity than a few of its rivals altogether. Others point out the technology centers, and infotainment options can be confusing. It could be too, that the critics just weren’t as excited this year about the Ridgeline, considering there were no significant upgrades from 2018.
Why the Chevrolet Colorado is better than the Honda Ridgeline
At the end of the day, the 2019 Chevy Colorado edged out the Ridgeline, the Ranger, and the Gladiator in reviews. It presented a little better in each key area of discussion, including hauling, hitting the rough terrain, and highway cruising. It may not have offered the expansive room and comfort that Ridgeline did, but some claim the control in the Colorado responds almost sports-car-like.
The cradling effect of the driver’s seat might make you forget you’re behind the wheel of a truck at all. Its powertrain wasn’t as impressive as some of the others, with its 3.6-liter engine. However, when it came to hooking up a trailer, the experts all agree that this little truck is more than capable of all things tool, tow, and toy enjoyment.
Ridgeline fans don’t be discouraged. Honda definitely is proving to be the everyday driving favorite among consumers. But, if you’re looking for an authentic midsize truck experience on and off-road, the 2019 Chevrolet Colorado is a clear winner in the reviews. What are your thoughts about the four contenders in this segment?
