Honda Motor has announced that a next-generation version of its Ridgeline pickup truck will be produced in the United States, following a temporary production halt later this year. This decision comes amidst concerns regarding the vehicle’s compliance with California emissions regulations. The assembly line at the Alabama plant will pause, with production expected to resume within two years, potentially by 2028.
Lance Woelfer, vice president of auto sales at American Honda Motor, emphasized the company’s commitment to its Ridgeline customers, stating the goal is to enhance the vehicle’s ruggedness and overall capability. However, Woelfer refrained from confirming whether these improvements would involve a shift from the Ridgeline’s current car-based production method to a traditional truck assembly style known as "body-on-frame," common among U.S. pickup trucks.
The Ridgeline is traditionally recognized for its smooth ride rather than its rugged capabilities. Enhancing its robustness may help broaden its appeal, especially as sales have declined approximately 3% in the first half of the year. Since 2021, annual Ridgeline sales have ranged between 41,000 to 52,000 units, a stark contrast to the Toyota Tacoma, which sold over 270,000 units in 2025.
Honda’s announcement comes at a time when its CR-V compact crossover has achieved a new milestone, leading U.S. auto sales in the first half of the year, driven by a 6% increase in sales from the previous year. This shift in sales dynamics could be attributed to production challenges faced by competitors like the Ford F-Series pickups and Toyota RAV4.
Why this story matters: The Ridgeline’s future production strategy is aligned with evolving consumer preferences for ruggedness in pickups.
Key takeaway: Honda aims to enhance the Ridgeline’s capabilities to attract more buyers amidst declining sales.
Opposing viewpoint: Some may argue that moving to a more rugged design could compromise the attributes that have characterized the Ridgeline.
