The Honda Ridgeline occupies a unique space in the mid-size pickup truck market. With its car-like unibody construction, it offers a smoother ride and better handling than many of its body-on-frame competitors. Deciding which trim level best suits your needs can be a challenge. This article delves into a detailed comparison between the Honda Ridgeline EX-L and the Honda Ridgeline Touring trims, arming you with the information needed to make an informed choice. Whether you’re prioritizing value, technology, or a blend of both, this comparison will help you determine which Ridgeline configuration aligns with your lifestyle and budget. This guide is designed for potential Honda Ridgeline buyers looking to understand the nuances between these two popular trims.
A Glimpse at the Honda Ridgeline’s Strengths
Before diving into the specifics of the EX-L and Touring trims, let’s briefly acknowledge what makes the Honda Ridgeline so appealing. Its independent rear suspension is a key contributor to its comfortable ride, a characteristic often missing in traditional pickup trucks. The innovative In-Bed Trunk®, a lockable storage compartment built into the truck bed floor, provides a secure and weather-resistant space for tools, gear, or groceries. The Ridgeline consistently earns praise for its user-friendly technology, spacious cabin, and impressive reliability. The year of the model might impact slight changes in features, therefore always double check the specification for your model year.
Head to Head: Honda Ridgeline EX-L versus Honda Ridgeline Touring
Let’s now examine the critical differences between the EX-L and Touring trims across several key categories.
Price and Value Proposition
One of the most significant factors influencing any car purchase is price. The Honda Ridgeline EX-L naturally comes with a lower starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) compared to the Touring trim. This makes the EX-L an attractive option for buyers seeking a balance between features and affordability. However, consider the long-term value proposition. Both trims benefit from Honda’s reputation for reliability, potentially leading to lower maintenance costs and a strong resale value. Sometimes, bundled packages can impact the price. Always factor in taxes, registration fees, and potential dealer markups when comparing the final cost of each trim.
Exterior Style and Design
While both the EX-L and Touring share the Ridgeline’s distinctive exterior design, subtle differences distinguish them. The Touring trim often boasts larger or more stylized wheels, enhancing its visual appeal. Chrome accents might be more prevalent on the Touring, adding a touch of sophistication. Examine the lighting configurations, as the Touring may offer upgraded LED headlights or fog lights. Both trims share the same functional bed size and overall dimensions, but the exterior details contribute to a different aesthetic impression. Look closely at each trim to see which one better fits your personal style. Do either of the trims have available appearance packages? That may sway your decision.
Interior Comfort and Technology
The interior is where the Touring trim truly shines. While the EX-L offers leather seats and a functional infotainment system with essential features, the Touring elevates the experience with premium upgrades. Expect to find a more sophisticated audio system in the Touring, delivering richer sound quality. A built-in navigation system is usually a standard feature in the Touring, eliminating the need to rely on your smartphone for directions. Let’s dig a bit deeper.
The infotainment systems often vary, with the Touring potentially offering a larger touchscreen display and more advanced connectivity options. Consider features like wireless phone charging, which may be exclusive to the Touring. Pay close attention to the seating materials. The Touring might feature higher-quality leather or unique stitching patterns, enhancing the overall sense of luxury. Comfort levels may also differ, with the Touring potentially offering features like heated rear seats or a power-adjustable passenger seat.
Safety First
Safety is paramount, and thankfully, both the Honda Ridgeline EX-L and the Honda Ridgeline Touring come equipped with Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced safety technologies. This typically includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Determine if there are any additional safety features available on the Touring that are not offered on the EX-L. This could include features like blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. Research crash test ratings from reputable organizations like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to assess the overall safety performance of each trim.
Performance and Engineering
In terms of mechanical components, both the EX-L and Touring trims share the same core powertrain. The engine and transmission are identical, ensuring similar levels of performance and fuel efficiency. All-wheel drive is typically standard on both trims, providing enhanced traction in various driving conditions. Towing and payload capacity are also generally the same, making both trims equally capable for hauling and towing tasks. Review the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) fuel economy estimates to compare the expected gas mileage of each trim. There should not be any difference in ride quality or handling in either vehicle based on features of the trim.
Practicality and Day-to-Day Utility
The Honda Ridgeline is renowned for its practicality, and both the EX-L and Touring trims excel in this area. The In-Bed Trunk® remains a standout feature, providing a secure and weather-resistant storage solution for tools, groceries, or sporting equipment. Evaluate the rear seat space and comfort, particularly if you frequently transport passengers. Both trims offer ample room, but the Touring may offer additional amenities like rear climate controls or USB charging ports. Consider the available cabin storage options. Both trims provide various compartments and cubbies for storing personal items, but the Touring may offer additional or more conveniently located storage spaces.
Pros and Cons: Weighing Your Options
Honda Ridgeline EX-L: The Value Proposition
Pros: More affordable price point, includes essential features for a comfortable and safe driving experience, represents excellent overall value for the money.
Cons: Lacks some of the premium features and luxurious interior appointments found in the Touring trim, might feel less refined compared to the higher-end model.
Honda Ridgeline Touring: The Premium Experience
Pros: More luxurious interior with upgraded materials and technology, advanced features enhance comfort and convenience, adds a touch of sophistication to the driving experience.
Cons: Higher price tag may stretch your budget, potential overlap with other high-end Ridgeline trims like the Black Edition in terms of features and price.
Making the Right Choice for You
The best Honda Ridgeline trim depends on your individual needs, priorities, and budget.
- For buyers on a budget: The EX-L offers a compelling blend of features and affordability, making it an excellent choice for value-conscious shoppers.
- For buyers who prioritize luxury and technology: The Touring elevates the Ridgeline experience with its premium interior, advanced technology features, and enhanced comfort.
- For buyers who want a balance of both: Carefully consider which features are most important to you and whether the added cost of the Touring justifies the upgrades.
- Consider other factors: Think about your intended usage. Is the Ridgeline primarily a daily driver or a weekend workhorse? The answer may influence your trim choice.
Considering Other Options
While the Ridgeline offers a unique blend of capabilities, it’s wise to explore alternatives within the mid-size truck market. Models like the Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Colorado, and Ford Ranger offer different strengths and characteristics. Explore the pros and cons of each to see if they better meet your needs.
Final Thoughts: Choose Wisely
The Honda Ridgeline EX-L versus Touring debate ultimately comes down to personal preference and budget. The EX-L provides a solid foundation of features and value, while the Touring adds a layer of luxury and technology. By carefully comparing the key differences outlined in this article, you can make an informed decision and choose the Ridgeline trim that perfectly suits your needs. We encourage you to schedule test drives of both the Honda Ridgeline EX-L and the Honda Ridgeline Touring to experience the differences firsthand and determine which one best fits your lifestyle. Happy truck hunting!
