When the 2019 Honda Ridgeline hit the market, it disrupted traditional pickup truck conventions by offering a front-wheel-drive layout on its base model alongside an advanced torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system. Unlike body-on-frame competitors that relied on rear-wheel drive or traditional four-wheel drive, Honda built its unibody midsize truck on a car-like platform. This design choice sparked considerable debate among truck buyers trying to decide whether front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive best suited their daily driving and towing needs.
Understanding how these layouts affect performance, fuel economy, and real-world utility helps clear up the confusion. Let's break down how the 2019 Honda Ridgeline handles its drivetrain options, what sets them apart, and which one makes sense for your garage.
Understanding the 2019 Ridgeline Drivetrain Layouts
Every 2019 Honda Ridgeline relies on a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Where models diverge is how power gets sent to the pavement.
The entry-level RT trim comes exclusively with front-wheel drive. Mid-tier trims like the Sport and RTL offer a choice between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. Meanwhile, top-tier trims like the RTL-E and Black Edition come standard with all-wheel drive. For another look on this story, see the recent coverage from Reuters.
Crucially, the Ridgeline never offered a traditional rear-wheel-drive setup. Conversations surrounding rear-wheel drive usually stem from comparisons to traditional trucks like the Toyota Tacoma or Chevrolet Colorado. Honda engineered the Ridgeline from the front wheels back to maximize interior cabin space, cargo capacity, and ride comfort.
Front-Wheel Drive: Benefits and Limitations
Choosing a front-wheel-drive 2019 Ridgeline changes the driving dynamics significantly compared to traditional midsize trucks.
Advantages of Front-Wheel Drive
- Better fuel economy: Front-wheel-drive models achieve an EPA-estimated 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, edging out all-wheel-drive variants.
- Lower initial cost: Choosing a front-wheel-drive trim lowers the purchase price, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers who don't face harsh winters.
- Packaging efficiency: Eliminating rear driveshafts and transfer cases frees up interior packaging, contributing to the Ridgeline's roomy cabin and flat floor.
Limitations of Front-Wheel Drive
- Traction in inclement weather: Rain, snow, and mud easily overwhelm front tires when pulling away from a stop, especially under load.
- Lower towing confidence: While front-wheel-drive models retain a 5,000-pound maximum towing capacity when properly equipped, heavy loads reduce front-end steering bite and traction on steep inclines.
- Limited resale demand: Used truck buyers heavily favor all-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive configurations, making front-wheel-drive models harder to trade in later.
All-Wheel Drive: The i-VTM4 Advantage
Honda's Intelligent Variable Torque Management system, known as i-VTM4, transforms the Ridgeline's capabilities. Rather than a basic slip-and-grip setup, this torque-vectoring system actively distributes power not just between the front and rear axles, but also dynamically between the left and right rear wheels.
How i-VTM4 Works
When cornering or navigating slippery terrain, the system sends up to 70 percent of available engine torque to the rear wheels, and can direct 100 percent of that rear power to either the left or right rear wheel. This pushes the truck through turns with remarkable agility, reducing understeer and mimicking the balanced feel of a performance sedan.
All-Weather and Light Off-Road Performance
The system includes an Intelligent Traction Management button on the center console, letting drivers toggle between Normal, Snow, Mud, and Sand modes. While the Ridgeline lacks the heavy-duty low-range transfer case found in traditional off-road rigs, the all-wheel-drive system handles deep snow, wet boat ramps, and unpaved forestry roads with confidence.
Direct Comparison: FWD vs AWD Specs
| Feature | Front-Wheel Drive (2WD) | All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
|---|---|---|
| Available Trims | RT, Sport, RTL | Sport, RTL, RTL-T, RTL-E, Black Edition |
| EPA Fuel Economy | 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway | 18 mpg city / 25 mpg highway |
| Max Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs |
| Traction System | Open front differential | Torque-vectoring i-VTM4 |
| Traction Modes | Normal, Econ | Normal, Snow, Mud, Sand |
Common Mistakes When Choosing a Ridgeline Drivetrain
Buyers transitioning from traditional trucks or standard SUVs often make a few assumptions when shopping for a used 2019 Ridgeline.
- Assuming front-wheel drive handles like rear-wheel drive: Driving a front-wheel-drive truck means weight shifts off the drive wheels during acceleration, which can cause wheelspin on loose gravel. Traditional trucks shift weight onto rear drive wheels, yielding different traction characteristics.
- Overlooking towing package differences: On certain trims, upgrading to all-wheel drive also bundled heavy-duty transmission coolers and integrated trailer hitches. Always verify that a front-wheel-drive model has factory towing hardware if you plan to pull a trailer.
- Expecting rock-crawling capability: Neither drivetrain turns the Ridgeline into a Jeep Wrangler. The unibody frame and independent suspension prioritize ride smoothness over ground clearance and articulation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a front-wheel-drive 2019 Honda Ridgeline tow a camper?
Yes. The front-wheel-drive model retains a 5,000-pound towing capacity. However, if you regularly tow up steep boat ramps or camp in wet environments, the all-wheel-drive model provides significantly better control and grip.
Does the 2019 Honda Ridgeline have a traditional four-wheel-drive low range?
No. It features an all-wheel-drive system with electronic terrain modes rather than a mechanical low-range transfer case. It is designed for foul-weather commuting and light trail work rather than extreme rock crawling.
Why didn't Honda offer rear-wheel drive?
Honda builds its light trucks on passenger-car platforms. Front-wheel-drive architectures allow for more interior passenger room, a flat cabin floor, and better packaging efficiency for storage solutions like the in-bed trunk.
Which 2019 Ridgeline drivetrain holds its resale value better?
All-wheel-drive models command significantly higher demand on the used market. Buyers shopping for utility vehicles prefer the year-round security of all-wheel drive, making front-wheel-drive versions harder to sell later. You can check current marketplace values and listings directly on Edmunds or research official safety ratings through the IIHS.
