2021 Honda Ridgeline Type R: Rumors, Design

The Honda Ridgeline remains a sole unibody construction pickup truck on the roads in the US with the superior handling, ride quality, SUV-like cabin but with limited towing and off-road capability. The mid-size Ridgeline arrived all-new for the 2017 model year and has been on the roads without significant changes since then. The model received a new 9-speed automatic transmission, Honda Sensing safety suite and smartphone compatibility as standard features for the 2020 model year. The 2021 version is expected with a limited number of modifications as well. There are, however, rumors about the possible introduction of a hybrid powertrain option but the 2021 Honda Ridgeline Type R is also a matter of speculation.

The performance-oriented Ridgeline Type R has been a matter of speculation for years but without solid proof yet or hint from Honda. Spy photos of the Type R-treated Ridgeline haven’t also appeared to support claims about the model’s eventual arrival.

As the rumors suggest, the Ridgeline Type R should get similar treatment as other Honda Type R models including styling, in-cab and performance enhancements. The model would also arrive with the chassis and suspension upgrades.

2021 Honda Ridgeline Type R

2021 Honda Ridgeline Type R: Design

Official details about the upcoming 2021 Ridgeline haven’t appeared yet. The same is about the reported 2021 Honda Ridgeline Type R.

Various sources suggest that the next Ridgeline should arrive with similar styling changes as the recently refreshed mid-size Pilot SUV. That would include refreshed grille and headlights up front and taillights rear.

The Type R version should get visual and functional styling enhancements similar to other Type R-treated models as the reports suggest.  The model should get a Type R blacked-out grille version with red badging and Type R signature. The front bumper should get aerodynamic enhancements.

The performance-oriented Ridgeline should also get unique 20-inch multi-spoke wheels and Brembo brakes. The part of the package would also be specific color patterns.

Interior, Equipment:

The Honda Ridgeline has the Pilot SUV-based cabin. The next version isn’t expected to come with notable upgrades both inside the cabin and in the equipment list. 

The Ridgeline Type R should get specific trim details and in-cab enactments similar to other Type R models. There should be heavily bolstered sports front seats in red and black suede trim. The cabin would also have red constating stitching on the dash and door panels. A part of the package would be a sport-style steering wheel.

The model would also include modern tech and safety equipment. The equipment list would include an 8-inch touchscreen-based infotainment system, premium sound system, optional premium upholstery, etc. Honda sensing suite of active safety systems would also be standard. The suite includes adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, etc.

2021 Honda Ridgeline Type R

2021 Honda Ridgeline Type R: Performance

The regular Honda Ridgeline will return with a familiar 3.5-liter V-6 engine good for 280 hp and torque of 262 lb-ft. The engine comes in pair with the recently added 9-speed automatic transmission. The model is also in line to get the hybrid setup but it’s not clear would it happen for the 2021 model year. The system should include a similar setup as in the Honda Accord but with the V-6 engine. 

If the 2021 Honda Ridgeline Type R arrives as the rumors suggest, the model could use a 2.0-liter turbocharged and intercooled engine sourced from the Civic Type R. The engine makes 306 hp and torque of 295 lb-ft in the Civic. Engineers might drain more power from this engine for the application in the eventual Ridgeline Type R version.

The Honda Ridgeline Type R would also get various chassis upgrades and sport-tuned suspension setup if it hits the market.  The model would also get an upgraded braking system and performance tires and sit lower to the ground.

2021 Honda Ridgeline Type R: Release, Price

The upcoming Honda Ridgeline will again start around $34, 000. There is no solid evidence that the 2021 Honda Ridgeline Type R is underway. With no prototype on the roads, the chances to see the performance-oriented Ridgeline in a near future are very slim. The sources suggest that the Type R-treated Ridgeline could be priced at about $50, 000 if it hits the market.

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