Hey there, gearheads! Let's dive deep into the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL-E. This isn't just any pickup truck; it's a unique blend of a comfortable SUV and a practical truck bed. If you're in the market for a mid-size pickup, you've probably got the Ridgeline on your radar. But is the RTL-E trim the right choice for you? We're going to break down everything from its features and performance to its pros and cons to help you decide. Buckle up, because we're about to embark on a comprehensive 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL-E review!

Unpacking the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL-E: What's the Hype?

First off, what is the RTL-E? The RTL-E is one of the higher trims of the 2022 Honda Ridgeline, sitting just below the top-tier Black Edition. It's packed with features and designed to offer a premium experience. Think of it as the luxury edition of the Ridgeline. The Ridgeline itself stands out from the traditional body-on-frame pickups. It boasts a unibody construction, meaning the body and frame are integrated into a single structure. This gives it a smoother ride, more car-like handling, and a more comfortable cabin. This is a huge selling point for those who want a truck that doesn't feel like a rough-and-tumble work vehicle. The RTL-E takes all the inherent benefits of the Ridgeline and adds a layer of sophistication. You're getting things like leather-trimmed seats, a premium audio system, advanced safety features, and a host of tech upgrades. The goal? To provide a pickup experience that's both capable and refined. If you're considering a truck that's just as happy on a weekend adventure as it is on the daily commute, then the RTL-E is definitely worth a closer look. Let's get into the specifics, shall we?

Key Features and Highlights

The 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL-E is loaded with features. Here's a rundown of what makes this trim level special:

• Leather-Trimmed Seats: This adds a touch of luxury and comfort, making long drives a breeze.
• Premium Audio System: The upgraded sound system enhances the audio experience, perfect for enjoying your favorite tunes or podcasts.
• Advanced Safety Features: Honda Sensing suite comes standard, including features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking, providing peace of mind on the road.
• Infotainment System: A user-friendly touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration keeps you connected and entertained.
• In-Bed Trunk: This unique feature provides secure, lockable storage space in the truck bed, perfect for storing valuables or wet gear.
• Truck Bed Audio System: Yep, you read that right! Speakers built into the truck bed let you enjoy music while tailgating or at the campsite.
• LED Headlights: These provide superior visibility and a modern look.

These features, combined with the Ridgeline's inherent practicality, make the RTL-E a compelling package. It's a truck that can handle work, play, and everything in between, all while keeping you comfortable and entertained.

Performance and Handling: How Does the Ridgeline RTL-E Drive?

Okay, let's talk about what's under the hood. The 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL-E is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, which delivers smooth and responsive shifts. All-wheel drive (AWD) is standard on the RTL-E, providing excellent traction and stability in various driving conditions. One of the standout features of the Ridgeline is its car-like handling. The unibody construction and independent rear suspension contribute to a comfortable ride, even on rough roads. The steering is precise, and the truck feels surprisingly nimble for its size. Unlike some traditional pickups, the Ridgeline doesn't feel cumbersome or unwieldy. The AWD system provides confident performance in snow, rain, and other challenging conditions. It's not designed for extreme off-roading, but it can certainly handle moderate trails and off-pavement adventures. The Ridgeline's engine provides ample power for everyday driving, merging onto highways, and towing. While it may not be the fastest truck on the market, it offers plenty of grunt for most users. The nine-speed transmission does a good job of keeping the engine in its powerband, and the shifts are smooth and unobtrusive. If you value a comfortable ride, responsive handling, and all-weather capability, the Ridgeline RTL-E delivers. It's a truck that's easy to live with day in and day out, and it's also capable of handling a wide range of tasks.

Towing and Payload Capacity

While the Ridgeline isn't designed for heavy-duty towing, it still offers respectable capabilities. The 2022 Ridgeline RTL-E can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. This is sufficient for towing a small camper, a boat, or a trailer with ATVs or motorcycles. The payload capacity is around 1,583 pounds, which means you can carry a significant amount of cargo in the bed. Keep in mind that these figures can vary depending on the specific configuration and options. Always consult the owner's manual for the exact towing and payload capacities for your vehicle. For many truck buyers, these numbers are more than enough for their needs. If you're not planning on towing a large trailer or hauling extremely heavy loads, the Ridgeline RTL-E should be perfectly adequate.

Interior and Comfort: A Haven on Wheels

Step inside the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL-E, and you'll immediately notice the high-quality materials and comfortable design. The leather-trimmed seats are a welcome touch, adding a sense of luxury to the cabin. The front seats are supportive and offer plenty of adjustment, making it easy to find a comfortable driving position. The rear seats also provide ample space for passengers, with plenty of legroom and headroom. The Ridgeline's interior is well-designed and functional. The dashboard layout is clean and intuitive, with easy-to-reach controls. The infotainment system is user-friendly, with a responsive touchscreen display and seamless smartphone integration. The materials used throughout the cabin are of high quality, and the fit and finish are excellent. The RTL-E trim features a number of upgrades, including a premium audio system, which enhances the listening experience. The cabin is also well-insulated, minimizing road noise and creating a quiet and relaxing environment. This makes it easier to have conversations and enjoy the music while driving. The Ridgeline RTL-E offers a truly premium interior experience. It's a comfortable and inviting space that's perfect for both daily commutes and long road trips. The combination of high-quality materials, thoughtful design, and advanced features makes it a standout in the mid-size pickup segment. Whether you're hauling cargo or simply cruising around town, the Ridgeline RTL-E's interior will keep you comfortable and entertained.

Technology and Infotainment Features

The 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL-E is packed with technology and infotainment features. Here's a closer look:

• Touchscreen Display: The infotainment system features an 8-inch touchscreen display, which is responsive and easy to use. The graphics are clear, and the interface is intuitive.
• Smartphone Integration: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the vehicle. You can access your favorite apps, make calls, send texts, and control your music using the touchscreen or voice commands.
• Premium Audio System: The RTL-E trim includes an upgraded audio system, which delivers excellent sound quality. The speakers are strategically placed throughout the cabin, creating an immersive listening experience.
• Honda Sensing Suite: The Honda Sensing suite of driver-assistance features comes standard, providing an extra layer of safety on the road. Features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking.
• Digital Instrument Cluster: The digital instrument cluster provides important information about the vehicle's performance and status, including speed, fuel level, and driver-assistance alerts.
• Wireless Charging: A wireless charging pad is available, allowing you to charge your smartphone without the need for cables.

These tech features make the Ridgeline RTL-E a modern and well-equipped vehicle. They enhance the driving experience and provide a high level of convenience and connectivity.

Exterior Design: Stylish and Functional

The 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL-E boasts a distinctive exterior design that's both stylish and functional. It's not your typical boxy pickup truck; instead, it features a more modern and streamlined look. The front end is characterized by a bold grille, LED headlights, and a muscular hood. The side profile is sleek and aerodynamic, with clean lines and a well-integrated bed. The RTL-E trim features a number of exclusive design elements, including unique wheels, a blacked-out grille, and other subtle styling enhancements. These details give the truck a more premium and sophisticated appearance. The rear of the Ridgeline is just as well-designed as the front, with stylish taillights and a practical tailgate. The truck bed is a standout feature, with its unique in-bed trunk, which provides secure, lockable storage space. The Ridgeline's exterior design is a testament to Honda's commitment to innovation and style. It's a truck that stands out from the crowd and makes a statement. The combination of sleek lines, bold styling, and functional features makes the Ridgeline RTL-E a truly appealing vehicle. Whether you're cruising around town or tackling a weekend adventure, this truck is sure to turn heads.

Truck Bed Features

The truck bed is one of the Ridgeline's most distinguishing features. Here's what sets it apart:

• In-Bed Trunk: This is a game-changer! The lockable, under-bed storage provides a secure place for your valuables or wet gear.
• Truck Bed Audio System: Built-in speakers let you enjoy music while tailgating or at the campsite.
• Dual-Action Tailgate: The tailgate can be opened in two ways: it can swing down like a traditional tailgate or swing out to the side for easier access.
• Durable Construction: The bed is made from a composite material that's resistant to dents and scratches.
• Multiple Tie-Down Points: These provide secure points for securing cargo.

These features make the Ridgeline's truck bed incredibly versatile and user-friendly. It's designed to handle a wide range of tasks, from hauling groceries to carrying camping gear.

Safety Features: Keeping You Safe on the Road

Safety is a top priority for Honda, and the 2022 Ridgeline RTL-E is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features. The Honda Sensing suite comes standard on all trims, providing a range of driver-assistance technologies. This includes:

• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Automatically maintains a set distance from the vehicle in front, adjusting speed as needed.
• Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS): Helps to keep the vehicle centered in its lane.
• Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS): Automatically applies the brakes if a potential frontal collision is detected.
• Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM): Helps to prevent the vehicle from drifting off the road.
• Forward Collision Warning (FCW): Alerts the driver of a potential frontal collision.
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW): Alerts the driver if the vehicle is drifting out of its lane.

In addition to the Honda Sensing suite, the Ridgeline RTL-E also includes other safety features such as a multi-angle rearview camera, which aids in parking and maneuvering. The Ridgeline has earned excellent safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), further demonstrating its commitment to safety. The combination of advanced safety features and strong crash test performance makes the Ridgeline RTL-E a safe and reliable vehicle. It provides peace of mind on the road, knowing that you and your passengers are protected.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Good and the Bad

Let's break down the pros and cons to give you a clear picture:

Pros:

• Comfortable Ride: The unibody construction provides a smooth and car-like ride.
• Spacious and Comfortable Interior: Plenty of room for passengers and a premium feel.
• User-Friendly Infotainment System: Easy to use with smartphone integration.
• Versatile Truck Bed: In-Bed Trunk and other features add practicality.
• Standard AWD: Provides excellent traction and stability.
• Excellent Safety Ratings: A safe and reliable vehicle.

Cons:

• Limited Towing Capacity: Not ideal for heavy-duty towing.
• Less Off-Road Capability: Not designed for extreme off-roading.
• Higher Price Tag: RTL-E is a premium trim, so it's more expensive.

Final Verdict: Is the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL-E Right for You?

So, after all that, is the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL-E worth it? The answer depends on your needs and priorities. If you're looking for a comfortable, versatile, and well-equipped mid-size pickup with a car-like ride and a focus on technology and convenience, then the RTL-E is an excellent choice. It's perfect for those who want a truck that can handle both daily commutes and weekend adventures. However, if you need a truck for heavy-duty towing or serious off-roading, you might want to consider a more traditional body-on-frame pickup. The Ridgeline RTL-E is a unique and compelling option in the mid-size pickup market. It offers a blend of comfort, practicality, and technology that's hard to beat. If you value a refined driving experience, a comfortable interior, and a versatile truck bed, then the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL-E is definitely worth considering. Think of it as a premium lifestyle truck, a great option for those who want the practicality of a pickup without sacrificing comfort and refinement. Go check it out at your local dealer, and see if it's the right fit for you!

I hope this review has given you a comprehensive overview of the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL-E. Happy truck hunting!