The latest Honda Ridgeline, which returned after the break of two model years, is the unique pickup truck in many aspects. This Pilot SUV-based truck looks like the truck but thanks to its unibody design it delivers for the trucks unmatched level of ride quality, handling smoothness and comfort. Honda also offers a unique solution for cargo bed with two-way tailgate and not to mention SUV-like interior and features. However, what may be cooking behind the curtain is another surprise which Honda is allegedly preparing for the new model year and that is the 2018 Honda Ridgeline Type R.
This special version of the Ridgeline, like in the case of the Civic Type R, should be the higher performance version of this mid-size truck. If we are to believe in unofficial reports, this performance version will get more aggressive exterior and interior which will be backed up with the more potent engine and sportier suspension.
2018 Honda Ridgeline Type R: Styling
From the visual perspective, rumors suggest that the new 2018 Honda Ridgeline Type R will feature more aggressive exterior design than the conventional version of this truck.
This performance oriented variant should have more aggressive front and rear bumpers, more sculpted hood, unique blacked-out grille and accentuated headlights. Further, the appearance of this version will be enhanced with the sportier wheels and unique lower body cladding. What will also make this truck sportier is lower ride height. The regular version of this truck already has the ground clearance which limits the off-road capability of this truck but with even more reduced ride height this truck would become the on-road vehicle only.
Interior, Features:
Interior of this unique version, like the exterior, should also get the special treatment. The rumors suggest, that interior will feature the same layout and overall design as the regular version. But it should be uniquely trimmed. The black-themed interior should also include contrasting accents on the dash and door panels. It should also get sports seats with the leather upholstery and contrasting stitching. The sports steering wheel and instrument cluster should also be in front of the driver.
2018 Honda Ridgeline Type R: Performance
What of course is most important about this model is its high-performance powertrain. According to rumors, two engine versions are possible.
One version suggests upgraded engine variant of the current 3.6-liter V-6 engine which is also found in the Pilot SUV. This engine can produce 280 hp and torque of 262 pound-feet in the regular truck version. However, the Type R variant should get enhancements that would boost output to above 300 hp.
On the other hand, the second scenario, predicts a turbocharged engine which should produce around 300 hp. Combined with this engine will likely be upgraded version of the six-speed automatic transmission while manual gearbox is also possible.
Furthermore, the 2018 Honda Ridgeline Type R should also feature sportier suspension and some chassis reinforcements plus the high-performance brakes. With all enhancements, this truck should significantly bring down the current 60 mph time of 8 seconds.
2018 Honda Ridgeline Type R: Arrival, Price
Honda hasn’t commented on the rumor about the 2018 Honda Ridgeline Type R and its release date. Based on the speculations, this truck could arrive in late 2017. The price is going to be around $40, 000.
Brakes the mold wide open a stand alone sport truck that’s ready for the track. if Honda builds a ridgeline Type R the truck market will have a new bad boy on the block a real show stopper. With all other vehicle manufacturers playing in the dirt the Type R will be in the passing lane. This Truck has attitude and I am in the market. Now can we convince Honda to build this bad to the bone truck!