2024 Honda Ridgeline vs 2025 RAM 2500

The 2024 Honda Ridgeline continued with its second-generation design, which initially resembled a modified Pilot SUV. However, recent styling updates gave it a more commanding presence. The blunt nose, tall hood, and new tailgate lettering helped it blend in better with other trucks. The TrailSport version added all-terrain tires for a tougher look. Inside, a redesigned center console with a wide armrest and a 7-inch digital instrumentation panel enhanced the pickup feel. The 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system received improvements, and a new brown leather option was available in the RTL trim. The Ridgeline offered four versions: Sport, RTL, TrailSport, and Black Edition, all equipped with a 280-horsepower V6 engine and AWD, with prices ranging from $39,750 to $46,350.

In contrast, the 2025 RAM 2500 was known for its imposing presence, with a massive vertical grille and a new split headlight design. The truck's face varied by trim, with the Tradesman featuring black plastic and the Power Wagon and Rebel sporting premium finishes. The Laramie trim introduced luxury elements like leather seating and a large touchscreen. The Limited Longhorn and Limited models offered high-end interiors with unique themes. The RAM 2500 provided various cab and bed configurations, catering to different needs. Its towing capacity varied, with the Power Wagon at 10,530 pounds and other models reaching up to 20,000 pounds with the Cummins diesel engine.

The 2024 Honda Ridgeline featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and AWD. It could tow up to 5,000 pounds and had a payload capacity of 1,583 pounds. While its off-road capabilities were limited by shallow angles and 7.6 inches of ground clearance, it excelled on-road with smooth power delivery and responsive handling. The automatic transmission had minor quirks, and the TrailSport's off-road suspension felt firmer on pavement. Fuel economy averaged 19.4 mpg, slightly below the EPA rating.

The 2025 RAM 2500 offered a standard 6.4-liter Hemi V8 with 405 horsepower and 429 pound-feet of torque, capable of towing nearly 9,000 pounds. Most buyers opted for the revised 6.7-liter Cummins diesel engine, now standard in High Output spec with 430 horsepower and 1,075 pound-feet of torque. The RAM 2500's five-link rear suspension and optional air suspension provided a smooth ride. The Power Wagon excelled in off-road conditions, while the Rebel balanced off-road capability with towing needs. The RAM 2500's towing capacity reached up to 20,000 pounds with the diesel engine.

The 2024 Honda Ridgeline prioritized comfort and practicality. It offered easy entry and exit, supportive seating for five, and features like perforated leather upholstery and heated front seats in the TrailSport trim. Rear passengers enjoyed adequate legroom and a triple-zone climate control system. The Ridgeline's interior boasted numerous storage options, and the rear seat could be flipped up for additional cargo space. The 33.9 cubic-foot cargo bed included a weatherproof trunk with 7.3 cubic feet of space, ideal for various uses.

The 2025 RAM 2500 provided multiple cab and bed configurations, including Regular, Crew, and Mega Cabs. The Crew Cab offered ample rear-seat space, while the Mega Cab provided limo-like legroom. Towing capacity varied by configuration, with the Power Wagon at 10,530 pounds and other models reaching up to 20,000 pounds with the Cummins diesel. The RAM 2500's maximum payload was 3,940 pounds, with the Regular Cab and Hemi V8. The diesel engine reduced payload capacity, and the Power Wagon had a lower limit of 1,570 pounds.

The 2024 Honda Ridgeline featured a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system had a faster processor and improved graphics. Standard equipment included wireless smartphone charging and a seven-speaker stereo. The Black Edition offered HD Radio and an eight-speaker premium sound system. The 7-inch digital display in the gauge cluster enhanced usability.

The 2025 RAM 2500 boasted an 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with an optional 12-inch or 14.4-inch screen. The larger screens were standard on higher trims. A separate screen for the front passenger was available. Starting at the Laramie level, a 12.3-inch digital cluster replaced traditional gauges. The RAM 2500 offered advanced towing features, including trailer reverse steering control and Trailer-Tow Pages.

The 2024 Honda Ridgeline included a standard blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alert. It featured the Honda Sensing suite with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and more. The ADAS performed adequately but could be intrusive in traffic. The Ridgeline received an Acceptable rating in the IIHS small overlap frontal-impact test and a five-star NHTSA rating, except for rollover resistance.

The 2025 RAM 2500 offered optional safety features like adaptive steering, blind-spot monitoring, and pedestrian detection. Higher trims included forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. The RAM 2500 featured a comprehensive suite of camera technologies. It received a four-star NHTSA rating, while the IIHS had not rated it.