One used-car buyer is looking at the 2020 Toyota Tacoma versus a used Honda Ridgeline (presumably also from 2020). A Toyota Tacoma owners forum taught them about the pros and cons about each truck, and it was quite interesting.
What Toyota Tacoma Forum Users Had To Say
Let’s start with what the forum seagiant user asked on Tacoma World. Lightly edited for clarity and grammar.
“Hi, Looking at these 2 Trucks and trying to come to some kind of conclusion. Drove a Ford F-150 for 25 years, sold that and have owned a 2008 Honda Element, which has been the best auto I have ever owned. Do all the work on it myself, it's like working on a motorcycle! So impressed with HONDA, I have to admit, but have more to pick from with a Tacoma and it is cheaper, also. I'm also tall, but think there is probably little difference in driver legroom? Thoughts???”
Other forum users chimed in, as asked.
The first one pointed out that use case matters. We’ve said the same in our coverage of the Ridgeline.
“There's a huuuuuuge difference between a Tacoma and a Ridgeline...What exactly are your intentions for use? Do you just need a truck to haul things such as bringing plants/potting mix, building supplies, the occasional appliance home from Home Depot, etc.? Or are you actually planning on fixing it up to take it offroad (adding bigger tires, lift, camper, etc.)? A Ridgeline is not the choice for the latter, but either one will be fine for the former (in which case you should base your decision on seat/ride comfort, visibility, engine, features, etc. I recall the Ridgeline has a pretty shallow bed, but also has a "trunk" (storage compartment) underneath the bed floor, so is why it's shallow).”
That sentiment was echoed later on: “It's all about your usage. The Ridgeline is a Honda Pilot with a bed. You get the more comfortable ride of a FWD-based SUV but also the towing, hauling, and off-road capability and durability of a FWD-based SUV. If you don't need more than that, Ridgeline might be for you. Tacoma is a true truck with capabilities and durability to match, especially for off-roading, but it rides like it. Also, I'm not sure how old of ones you're looking at, but Honda has been having issues with the piston rings on the V6 engines, supposedly 2008-2017, but I've seen some reports of engines later than 2017 having the issue too. If you haven't already driven a Tacoma, when you do, try to find a rough road and see if you're OK with the ride. Some people like the truck-like feeling, but you'll certainly never mistake it for a Lexus.
Another has owned both trucks, and he or she chimed in.
“Having owned two third gen Tacomas, one with power seats and one without, and now a 2023 Ridgeline, the Ridgeline front seats are far more comfortable. My dad (6'2" 290lbs) who comes along on mini road trips with me periodically Also says he is much more comfortable as a passenger in the Ridgeline. Pretty much it will have to come down to what you specifically value more in a vehicle. If you want comfort, decent gas mileage, all wheel drive, and practicality, the Ridgeline is right up your alley. If you need something with decent ground clearance, off-road capability, better looks, and a huge aftermarket, then the Tacoma is the ideal choice.”
Finally, one pointed out that a timing chain vs. a timing belt can make the difference.
“I would have taken a Ridgeline if they came with RWD as option. And the other was they use a Timing Belt vice a Chain. Had a bad experience with a timing belt way back when I first purchased my first BMW. A used 1989 325is. New to me and the belt broke a month later on the gates to 32nd Naval Station. Had to skip work and junkyard dive looking for a used head.”
What Will The Poster Buy?
It’s unclear what the original poster settled on, although a couple of respondents tried to push him or her into a Ford Maverick or Nissan Frontier. What we can takeaway is that use case matters, both the Tacoma and Ridgeline are good trucks, and the best truck out of the two is the one that makes the most sense for you.
That seems like obvious advice, and it is, but these truck are also different enough that it matters. Even if they were identical in mission and specs, you'd still need to figure out what is best for you. Sometimes, one truck isn't better than another, it's about what's the best truck for you.
About The Author
Tim Healey is an experienced automotive writer and editor from Chicago. He has covered automotive news at Consumer Guide Automotive, Web2Carz, AutoGuide, and was the managing editor at The Truth About Cars. Tim is a member of the Midwest Automotive Media Association. You can find him on Facebook, X/Twitter, and on LinkedIn.
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