Two different approaches to the midsize truck compete for your driveway. Compare capability, comfort, features, and value to find your ideal truck.
The Honda Ridgeline offers superior ride comfort, innovative bed features, and car-like handling that makes it ideal for daily driving. The Toyota Tacoma counters with body-on-frame ruggedness and serious off-road capability. For buyers who want a truck for everyday use without sacrificing comfort, the Ridgeline delivers.
2024–2025 model year data. Specs vary by trim level.
| Specification | Honda Ridgeline | Toyota Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $40,250 | $35,880 |
| Construction | Unibody | Body-on-Frame |
| Engine | 3.5L V6 | 2.4L Turbo / Hybrid |
| Horsepower | 280 hp | 278 hp (Turbo) / 326 hp (Hybrid) |
| Fuel Economy (Combined) | 22 mpg | 21 mpg (Turbo) / 24 mpg (Hybrid) |
| Payload Capacity | 1,580 lbs | 1,685 lbs |
| Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs | 6,500 lbs |
| Bed Length | 64 in (5.3 ft) | 60-73 in (5-6 ft) |
| In-Bed Trunk | Yes (7.3 cu ft) | No |
| Dual-Action Tailgate | Yes | No |
| AWD / 4WD | Standard AWD | Available 4WD |
| Rear Legroom | 36.7 in | 32.7 in |
| Ground Clearance | 8.2 in | 9.4 in (TRD) |
What sets these midsize trucks apart.
Detailed breakdown of how these trucks compare.
The Ridgeline's unibody construction delivers a ride that feels more like an SUV than a traditional truck. The cabin is quieter, the suspension absorbs bumps smoothly, and highway cruising is relaxed. The Tacoma's body-on-frame design is rugged but bouncy, especially with an empty bed. For daily commuting and family use, the Ridgeline is significantly more comfortable.
The Tacoma — especially in TRD Pro trim — is a serious off-road machine with crawl control, locking rear differential, and up to 9.4 inches of ground clearance. The Ridgeline TrailSport is capable for moderate trails but isn't designed for rock crawling or extreme terrain. If off-roading is your primary use case, the Tacoma is purpose-built for it.
The Ridgeline's bed is uniquely innovative. The in-bed trunk provides 7.3 cubic feet of lockable, weatherproof storage — perfect for tools, gear, or groceries. The dual-action tailgate folds down traditionally or swings open like a door for easier loading. Available truck bed speakers make tailgating a party. No other truck matches the Ridgeline's bed versatility.
The Tacoma can tow up to 6,500 lbs versus the Ridgeline's 5,000 lbs — a meaningful advantage for larger boats, trailers, or campers. Payload capacity is similar. If you need maximum towing capability in a midsize truck, the Tacoma delivers more pulling power. For most recreational towing, both are adequate.
The Ridgeline has 36.7 inches of rear legroom versus the Tacoma's 32.7 inches — a 4-inch advantage that makes a real difference for rear passengers. Interior materials are also more refined in the Ridgeline with better fit and finish. The Tacoma's interior is functional but more utilitarian.
The Tacoma starts about $4,400 lower than the Ridgeline and has legendary resale value — among the best of any vehicle. Toyota trucks hold their value exceptionally well. The Ridgeline also retains value but can't match the Tacoma's reputation. For pure value retention, the Tacoma wins.
Match your priorities to the right vehicle.
Answers to help you decide.
Yes. The Ridgeline has a 5,000 lb towing capacity, 1,580 lb payload, and a full-size bed. Its unibody construction differs from traditional body-on-frame trucks but offers comparable utility with better ride comfort.
The Honda Ridgeline rides significantly more comfortably thanks to its unibody construction and car-like suspension. The Tacoma's body-on-frame design is bouncier, especially with an empty bed.
Yes. The Ridgeline TrailSport has standard AWD and can handle moderate trails, dirt roads, and camping spots. For serious rock crawling or extreme off-road use, the Tacoma TRD Pro is better equipped.
The in-bed trunk is a lockable, weatherproof storage compartment built into the bed floor. It provides 7.3 cubic feet of secure storage for tools, gear, or groceries — a feature unique to the Ridgeline.
The Toyota Tacoma tows up to 6,500 lbs versus the Ridgeline's 5,000 lbs. For larger boats or trailers, the Tacoma has a meaningful advantage.
The Toyota Tacoma has legendary resale value — among the best of any vehicle. The Ridgeline also retains value well but can't match the Tacoma's exceptional depreciation resistance.
Visit Steve Padgett's Honda of Lake Murray to test drive the Ridgeline and see the difference for yourself.
Steve Padgett's Honda of Lake Murray · 750 Western Ln, Irmo, SC 29063 · (803) 392-0488
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