The second generation Ridgeline took a different approach in design from the first generation Ridgeline by sharing Honda's new "global light truck platform," found in the third generation Honda Pilot as well as other large Honda vehicles. Main article: Honda Ridgeline (second generation)Īfter a one-year hiatus in Ridgeline production, the second generation of their mid-size truck went on sale in June 2016 as a 2017 model year vehicle. Production of the first generation Ridgeline ended in early 2015. Its powertrain resembled the one used in the first generation Acura MDX but was "extensively calibrated and strengthened" for heavier hauling and towing duties. Honda's publications state that the first generation Ridgeline was a uniquely engineered vehicle with only 7% of its components shared with other Honda vehicles. The production version of the Ridgeline was unveiled the following year at the 2005 North American International Auto Show. Later that same year, Honda unveiled a revised version of their pickup concept at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show and announced the official name of the vehicle, the Ridgeline. After four years of development, the final design was revealed to the public as Honda's Sport Utility Truck Concept at the 2004 North American International Auto Show. The development started in 2001 when the engineering team began experimenting with their first development mule, an extended version of a first generation Acura MDX with a competitor's pickup bed integrated into the rear structure. According to the author of Driving Honda, the automaker wanted to target buyers who were looking to transition out of sedans, minivans, and sport utility vehicles (SUV) into pickups. According to the author of The Car Design Yearbook, the Ridgeline was "Honda's first foray into the true heartland of the American automotive way of life-the pickup truck." It was designed and engineered by a 37-member engineering team from Honda Research and Development (R&D) Americas, led by Gary Flint. The first generation Ridgeline went on sale in March 2005 as a 2006 model year vehicle. Main article: Honda Ridgeline (first generation)
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