The 2026 Honda Ridgeline remains unique in a market obsessed with "toughness" over "usability." It is the truck for the driver who admits they spend 95% of their time on pavement but still needs to haul mulch, tow a boat, and survive an Oklahoma ice storm.
At Heather Cannon Honda, we hear the same questions every day from customers in Ponca City and Blackwell. Is there a hybrid version? Does it really have a trunk in the bed? Is the TrailSport actually good off-road?
Here are the expert answers to the top Frequently Asked Questions about the 2026 Honda Ridgeline.
Is there a 2026 Honda Ridgeline Hybrid?
No. The 2026 Ridgeline retains the proven 3.5L V6 gasoline engine.
The Reality: While rumors of a hybrid powertrain are circulating (likely for the next full generation), the 2026 model prioritizes the towing capability and consistent power delivery of the naturally aspirated V6.
What is special about the 2026 Ridgeline TrailSport?
The TrailSport is not just an appearance package. It is engineered for the dirt roads of Kay County.
- Suspension: Unique spring rates and damper tuning provide better articulation and ride compliance on washboard gravel roads.
- Tires: It comes standard with General Grabber™ A/T Sport tires (245/60R18), which offer significantly better grip in mud and snow than the standard all-seasons.
- Protection: It features steel underbody protection (skid plates) to shield the oil pan from rocks.
Does the 2026 Ridgeline require a timing belt replacement?
Yes. The 3.5L V6 is an "interference engine" equipped with a timing belt.
- The Schedule: You must inspect it every 60,000 miles and replace it at 100,000 miles (or 7 years).
- Cannon Tip: Do not ignore this. If the belt snaps, it will cause catastrophic engine damage.
What are the 2026 Ridgeline bed dimensions?
- Length: 64.0 inches (5 feet, 4 inches).
- Width: 60.0 inches total; 50.0 inches between wheel wells.
- Why it matters: This is the only midsize truck that allows a 4x8 sheet of plywood or drywall to lay completely flat on the floor.
How big is the In-Bed Trunk®?
The In-Bed Trunk® offers 7.3 cubic feet of secure storage.
- It is large enough to hold an 82-quart ice chest or two full-size golf bags.
- It features a drain plug, so you can fill it with ice for tailgating and simply pull the plug to drain the water later.
Can the 2026 Ridgeline tow a camper?
Yes, if it is under 5,000 lbs. Most single-axle travel trailers and pop-up campers weigh between 2,500 and 4,000 lbs. The Ridgeline handles these easily with its standard Class III hitch and 7-pin connector.
Is the 2026 Ridgeline AWD standard?
Yes. Every 2026 Ridgeline (Sport, RTL, TrailSport, Black Edition) comes standard with the i-VTM4® All-Wheel Drive System. You do not need to pay extra for traction.
Does the 2026 Ridgeline have ventilated seats?
Yes, but only on the Black Edition trim. The Sport, RTL, and TrailSport trims feature heated front seats, but if you want cooling for Oklahoma summers, you must step up to the Black Edition.
What is the "Dual-Action Tailgate"?
It is a tailgate that opens two ways:
- Drop Down: Like a traditional truck (rated to hold 300 lbs).
- Swing Out: It swings open like a car door (hinged on the left). This allows you to stand closer to the bumper when loading heavy items, saving your back from strain.
Does the Ridgeline use Premium or Regular gas?
Regular Unleaded (87 Octane) is recommended for daily driving.
Towing Tip: If you are towing near the 5,000-lb limit, we recommend switching to Premium (91+) to prevent engine knock and maintain peak horsepower.
Does the 2026 Ridgeline have a Spare Tire?
Yes. It is located inside the In-Bed Trunk® in a sliding tray. This keeps it clean and dry, unlike competitors where the spare is mounted underneath the truck, collecting rust and mud.
Note: If your bed is fully loaded, accessing the spare can be difficult.
Where can I test drive the 2026 Ridgeline in Ponca City?
You can test drive the new Ridgeline at Heather Cannon Honda, located at 3415 N 14th St. We encourage you to bring your kids or your golf clubs to test the trunk space yourself.
