Tag Archives: 2026 Honda Ridgeline

How the 2026 Honda Ridgeline TrailSport Adapts to Weekend Adventures around North Liberty, IA

How the 2026 Honda Ridgeline TrailSport Adapts to Weekend Adventures around North Liberty, IA

Brad Deery Honda – How the 2026 Honda Ridgeline TrailSport Adapts to Weekend Adventures around North Liberty, IA

The 2026 Honda Ridgeline TrailSport is built for drivers who spend weekdays on pavement and weekends far from it. Off-road tuned springs, dampers, and stabilizer bars work with all-terrain tires to level up composure over ruts and washboard surfaces, while i-VTM4® AWD continuously manages torque to the wheels that can use it most. Intelligent Traction Management gives you four modes — Normal, Snow, Sand, and Mud — so the truck’s throttle mapping and shift strategy better align with the ground beneath you. Pair this with a fully independent suspension and the result is confidence on gravel, dirt, and slick two-tracks without the fatigue commonly associated with rougher-riding, body-on-frame pickups.

Trail-ready engineering doesn’t mean the cabin goes spartan. Inside TrailSport, orange stitching and orange lighting add character to a roomy, quiet interior with seating for five. The 9-inch Display Audio touch-screen places wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ within easy reach, and the 60/40 split lift-up rear seat creates tall-item storage when coolers, camp stoves, or a dog crate won’t fit in conventional spaces. Out back, the Dual-Action Tailgate opens down or to the side for smarter access to the lockable, drainable In-Bed Trunk®, which can serve as secure gear storage or an on-site ice chest. Factor in up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity and the TrailSport becomes a practical bridge between everyday life and your favorite trailhead.

  • Off-road tuned suspension: Retuned springs, dampers, and stabilizer bars bolster comfort and control when the route gets rough.
  • All-terrain tires: Tread optimized for mixed surfaces helps maintain traction in mud, sand, and on rocky approaches.
  • i-VTM4® AWD: Torque distribution supports confident cornering on pavement and grip off the beaten path.
  • Dual-Action Tailgate: Side opening makes it easier to reach the In-Bed Trunk® or load heavy gear securely.
  • In-Bed Trunk®: Lockable and drainable, it’s ideal for storing valuables or keeping beverages on ice at camp.

For road trips and daily errands, TrailSport’s unibody construction and independent suspension deliver a calm, refined ride. The advantage is most noticeable on longer drives, where reduced body shake and cabin noise help everyone arrive more relaxed. And with Honda Sensing® standard, the truck adds driver-assistive features designed to help you navigate busy highways and unfamiliar byways with greater ease. Available tech like the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ brings helpful 3-D landmarks and lane guidance to the dash, keeping plans on track even when mobile service gets spotty.

  1. Plan your route and trail conditions, selecting the correct Intelligent Traction Management mode when surfaces change.
  2. Use the 60/40 split lift-up rear seat for tall cargo, keeping heavy items low and centered for balance.
  3. Load coolers and recovery gear in the In-Bed Trunk®, reserving bed space for bulkier items like bikes and tents.
  4. Leverage the Dual-Action Tailgate’s side opening to access tools without unloading the bed.
  5. Set your favorite audio and navigation presets on the 9-inch Display Audio touch-screen before you leave pavement.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is the TrailSport a good choice for winter driving?

Yes. i-VTM4® AWD and Intelligent Traction Management with a Snow mode help optimize traction and throttle response for cold, slick conditions.

Does the TrailSport include added underbody protection?

TrailSport features a standard Oil Pan Guard, adding protection when you encounter rocky terrain or deep ruts.

Can the TrailSport tow a small camper or pair of ATVs?

Ridgeline is rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, making it well suited for trailers, small campers, and powersports gear.

What technology stands out on longer trips?

The 9-inch Display Audio touch-screen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ simplifies routing and media, while the available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ brings detailed lane guidance and off-grid mapping support.

How does the TrailSport feel on pavement compared to body-on-frame trucks?

Thanks to its unibody structure and independent suspension, it rides with SUV-like comfort and quiet, while retaining truck bed utility and real-world hauling capability.

Ready to see how this trim supports your lifestyle? The TrailSport’s combination of off-road confidence, quiet-road comfort, and everyday cargo ingenuity is ideal for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and DIY weekend warriors. Visit us for a hands-on demo of the Dual-Action Tailgate and In-Bed Trunk®, and a quick walk-through of how to use Intelligent Traction Management on your typical routes. Brad Deery Honda is serving North Liberty, Cedar Rapids, and Mount Pleasant with test-drive opportunities and side-by-side trim comparisons so you can choose TrailSport with clarity — and hit the trail with confidence.

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What to Know About the 2026 Honda Ridgeline

What to Know About the 2026 Honda Ridgeline

Brad Deery Honda – What to Know About the 2026 Honda Ridgeline

The 2026 Honda Ridgeline brings a smart balance of everyday comfort and real truck capability to the midsize segment. Its unibody construction delivers a refined, SUV-like ride without giving up utility, while purposeful upgrades across styling, chassis tuning, and technology make it an easy choice for drivers who want one vehicle to do it all. From a dual-action tailgate to a lockable In-Bed Trunk, the Ridgeline is built to simplify life at work, on the trail, and everywhere in between.

Capability is the Ridgeline’s calling card. Available i-VTM4 all-wheel drive collaborates with Intelligent Traction Management for confident performance in snow, sand, and mud, while fully independent suspension keeps the ride composed on rough pavement or forest roads. Choose the TrailSport for an off-road tuned suspension and all-terrain tires—an ideal setup for weekends off-grid without sacrificing weekday comfort of daily commutes near Burlington. A robust V-6 pairs with a responsive automatic transmission for smooth acceleration, stable towing, and relaxed highway cruising, and a composite, scratch-resistant bed stands up to heavy use season after season.

Inside, the 2026 Ridgeline seats up to five with generous space and smart storage. The 60/40 lift-up rear seat creates tall cargo room for coolers, tools, or a bike, and available amenities like leather-trimmed seating, heated front seats, a one-touch power moonroof, and tri-zone automatic climate control make long drives feel effortless. Technology is equally thoughtful: an intuitive 9-inch Display Audio system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, available navigation provides clear guidance even off the beaten path, and the HondaLink app helps you keep tabs on service and vehicle status. Standard Honda Sensing driver-assist features add peace of mind with collision mitigation braking, lane keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control, and more, while available blind spot information and a rearview camera with dynamic guidelines increase confidence in tight spots.

Shopping for the right trim is straightforward when you can compare capability, comfort, and tech packages side by side. Our team helps you tailor a Ridgeline to your needs—whether that means prioritizing towing, maximizing everyday versatility, or adding adventure-ready accessories like roof rails, a bed extender, or all-season floor mats. We provide a welcoming, streamlined experience from test drive through delivery, serving Iowa City, Coralville, and North Liberty.

  • Capability: i-VTM4 all-wheel drive and Intelligent Traction Management modes collaborate with independent suspension for confident traction and a smooth ride on varied surfaces.
  • Utility: The dual-action tailgate drops down or swings out for easy access to the lockable In-Bed Trunk with a drain plug, and the lay-flat bed makes loading bulky items simple.
  • Comfort: Seating for five, a 60/40 lift-up rear seat, available leather-trimmed upholstery, heated front seats, and tri-zone climate control support long-haul comfort in all seasons.
  • Technology: A 9-inch touch-screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, available navigation, and the HondaLink app keep you connected and in control.
  • Confidence: Standard Honda Sensing driver-assist features plus available blind spot information and a multi-view rear camera help with awareness and maneuvering.
  • Personalization: Genuine accessories—running boards, bed covers, roof-mounted carriers, and more—let you customize for work, travel, or trail duty.
  1. Define your priorities: Decide how you will use your truck most—commuting, hauling, towing, or weekend trails—so you can focus on the right features.
  2. Compare trims: Explore Sport, RTL, TrailSport, and Black Edition variants to match capability, interior amenities, and styling to your plans.
  3. Evaluate packages: Consider bed protection, storage solutions, roof rails, and towing accessories to streamline your setup from day one.
  4. Plan your visit: Schedule a test drive, bring trade-in details, and review your must-haves so we can prepare a vehicle that fits your checklist.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What makes the Ridgeline different from traditional body-on-frame trucks?

The Ridgeline’s unibody construction and independent suspension deliver a more refined, car-like ride while preserving real truck capability. You get confident towing and hauling plus better on-road composure, reduced bed noise, and a cabin that feels exceptionally quiet and comfortable.

How does the dual-action tailgate and In-Bed Trunk help day to day?

The tailgate drops down for standard loading or swings out to the side for quick access to the lockable In-Bed Trunk. The trunk’s drain plug makes it perfect for muddy gear or iced beverages, and because it sits below the bed floor, you keep full use of the bed for lumber, bikes, or camping equipment.

Is the TrailSport worth it if I mostly drive on pavement?

Yes—TrailSport’s off-road tuned suspension and all-terrain tires improve traction on dirt, gravel, and winter roads without compromising daily comfort. You also get distinctive styling and added underbody protection, making it a strong match for drivers who want weekend capability with weekday civility.

At Brad Deery Honda, we are ready to help you experience the 2026 Ridgeline firsthand, answer your questions in depth, and outfit your truck with the right accessories for work and play. Schedule your test drive and see how this smart, versatile pickup can simplify your week and amplify your weekends.

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Is i-VTM4® AWD on the 2026 Honda Ridgeline worth it for winter around Cedar Rapids, IA?

Is i-VTM4® AWD on the 2026 Honda Ridgeline worth it for winter around Cedar Rapids, IA?

Brad Deery Honda – Is i-VTM4® AWD on the 2026 Honda Ridgeline worth it for winter around Cedar Rapids, IA?

For many Iowa drivers, winter confidence is the deciding factor in choosing a truck, and the 2026 Honda Ridgeline gives you a compelling answer with its i-VTM4® AWD system. This advanced setup is more than a basic all-wheel-drive design, because it can proactively shift torque side to side across the rear axle. That helps you launch steadily on slick surfaces, round frosty corners with more composure, and climb snowy grades with less drama. Pair it with Intelligent Traction Management, which lets you choose Snow mode, and the Ridgeline adapts both traction control and throttle for your conditions around Cedar Rapids, IA.

What stands out is how the Ridgeline balances winter performance with everyday comfort. The fully independent suspension and unibody construction contribute to a quieter, more controlled ride than many body-on-frame pickups. That means you can enjoy stability on snow without feeling beat up by potholes or washboard surfaces when the thaw arrives. Add helpful winter-friendly touches like standard Remote Engine Start, available heated front seats, and tri-zone automatic climate control, and you have a truck that takes the edge off subfreezing mornings.

To understand how the AWD system supports winter routines, consider a few use cases. If you are commuting before sunrise, i-VTM4® helps keep the truck planted when lane changes encounter icy patches. On weekend trips to a trailhead, the system helps manage mixed traction across the rear axle as snow turns to slush and back to packed snow. At the same time, the standard rearview camera with dynamic guidelines simplifies backing up in tight, snow-narrowed spaces, while available Blind Spot Information System with cross traffic monitor adds helpful awareness in crowded lots.

  • Snow mode optimizes throttle response and traction control for low grip
  • i-VTM4® actively shifts torque side to side across the rear axle
  • Independent suspension helps the truck stay calm on uneven winter roads
  • Available heated seats and Remote Engine Start support cold starts
  • Rearview camera with dynamic guidelines aids maneuvering in snow

Drivers who also tow in winter will appreciate the powertrain’s poise. With a 280-horsepower V-6 and a standard integrated tow hitch, the Ridgeline is engineered to move small campers, sled trailers, and equipment with confidence. Intelligent Traction Management helps reduce wheelspin when pulling out on packed snow, and the smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic keeps the truck settled on rolling terrain.

Beyond traction, daily convenience matters in winter. The Dual-Action Tailgate allows you to swing the gate open to the side when a snow berm crowds the space behind the bed, and the lockable In-Bed Trunk® with a drain plug is ideal for storing wet recovery straps or snow brushes without soaking other cargo. Inside, the 9-inch Display Audio touch-screen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ keeps directions, weather, and messages close at hand while your gloves stay stashed in the roomy center console.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is i-VTM4® AWD always on or do I need to activate it

The system is always active and automatically distributes torque where it is needed. You simply choose your drive mode using Intelligent Traction Management when conditions call for Snow, Sand, or Mud.

How does Snow mode change the way the truck behaves

Snow mode fine-tunes throttle input and traction control to minimize wheelspin and improve stability on slippery surfaces. It works in concert with i-VTM4® to help the truck feel more predictable on winter roads.

Do I need special tires to get the most out of AWD in winter

AWD improves traction, but dedicated winter-rated tires will further enhance grip, braking, and steering feel in cold conditions. Many Iowa drivers pair i-VTM4® with winter tires for the strongest results on packed snow and ice.

For a hands-on feel, take a test drive when the forecast cooperates. You can evaluate launch behavior on slick surfaces, feel the difference Snow mode makes at low speeds, and see how the rearview camera’s dynamic guidelines help with tight parking in plowed lots. Brad Deery Honda in West Burlington, serving North Liberty, Cedar Rapids, and Mount Pleasant, will help you set up a route that mirrors your commute and weekend plans, then walk you through accessories that complement winter driving, from bed covers to all-season floor protection.

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Can the 2026 Honda Ridgeline Tow My Boat or Camper near Iowa City, IA?

Can the 2026 Honda Ridgeline Tow My Boat or Camper near Iowa City, IA?

Brad Deery Honda – Can the 2026 Honda Ridgeline Tow My Boat or Camper near Iowa City, IA?

Drivers planning weekends at Coralville Lake or a run to Lake Macbride State Park often ask if a midsize truck can confidently handle their boat, small camper, or utility trailer. The 2026 Honda Ridgeline is built for exactly that balance of everyday comfort and weekend capability, and Brad Deery Honda is ready to help shoppers near Iowa City, IA understand how the Ridgeline’s towing hardware, traction systems, and visibility tech come together for stress-free trailering.

The core of Ridgeline capability is a 280-horsepower V-6 paired with standard i-VTM4® AWD and a 9-speed automatic transmission. Honda rates the 2026 Ridgeline to tow up to 5,000 pounds, and every model includes a standard integrated tow hitch with a 7-pin connector for simple hook-ups. Intelligent Traction Management lets you choose Normal, Snow, Sand, or Mud, helping the truck optimize traction when you’re easing down a damp boat ramp or crossing a gravel campground. A fully independent suspension enhances stability and composure, while the unique unibody construction is engineered for strength and a smooth, quiet ride on I-380, Highway 1, and backroads around the Iowa River.

Hitching and maneuvering are made easier by the standard Rearview Camera with Dynamic Guidelines that provides wide, normal, and top-down views to help line up your trailer and back into tight sites. On the road, the available Blind Spot Information System (BSI) with Cross Traffic Monitor can alert you to vehicles approaching alongside or behind when changing lanes or reversing at a busy launch. It is a smart, confidence-building bundle for towing across town or out to the trailhead.

Below are key highlights that help the 2026 Ridgeline handle weekend toys and daily duties with equal ease.

  • i-VTM4® AWD for confident traction in varied conditions
  • Up to 5,000 pounds of towing capability
  • Standard integrated tow hitch with 7-pin connector
  • Rearview Camera with Dynamic Guidelines and three selectable views
  • Intelligent Traction Management with Normal, Snow, Sand, and Mud modes
  • Independent front and rear suspension for stability and comfort
  • Composite truck bed that resists dings and scrapes
  • Lockable In-Bed Trunk® with drain plug for secure, washable storage
  • Dual-Action Tailgate for flexible bed access
  • Available truck-bed power outlet for campsite or jobsite convenience
  • Available bed extender to increase maximum cargo length

When your plans expand beyond towing, the Ridgeline’s cargo solutions shine. The composite bed is designed to handle everything from 4-by-8 sheets to garden supplies, and the Lockable In-Bed Trunk® with a drain plug is ideal for stowing tie-downs, life vests, and cords or converting into a rinse-out cooler at the end of the day. Inside, 60/40 split lift-up rear seats provide flexible space for coolers, tools, or a folded tent. Long drives are easier with standard tri-zone automatic climate control, while the 9-inch Display Audio touch-screen with Wireless Apple CarPlay® and wireless Android Auto™ helps you find the quickest route to the ramp and stay connected without clutter.

Choosing a trim is straightforward because the fundamentals of towing are included throughout the lineup. Every 2026 Ridgeline features the i-VTM4® AWD system, the 280-hp V-6, and the standard integrated tow hitch with a 7-pin connector. If your adventures take you deeper onto gravel and two-track, the TrailSport adds an off-road tuned suspension and all-terrain tires, and it includes added protection such as an Oil Pan Guard. For shoppers who want premium audio and a distinctive look, the Black Edition trims deliver, without sacrificing day-to-day utility.

If you are matching the Ridgeline to your gear near Iowa City, IA, a wide range of small fishing boats, compact travel trailers, and two-ATV setups often fall within a 5,000-pound limit. Actual weights vary by trailer and load, so bring your specs to Brad Deery Honda and our team will walk through best practices, tongue weight considerations, and the Ridgeline features that help you enjoy a confident towing experience.

Our team can also help you outfit your truck with Honda Genuine Accessories, from bed extenders and cargo dividers to kayak attachments and running boards. Visit Brad Deery Honda in West Burlington for a hands-on walkaround, a towing demo, and a test drive that shows how the 2026 Ridgeline tows smoothly, tracks straight, and makes every trip easier.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the towing capacity of the 2026 Honda Ridgeline?

The 2026 Ridgeline can tow up to 5,000 pounds. It is powered by a 280-horsepower V-6 with 262 pound-feet of torque and includes a standard integrated tow hitch with a 7-pin connector to simplify your trailer connection.

How does i-VTM4® AWD help when towing around Iowa City, IA?

The i-VTM4® AWD system actively manages torque to help optimize traction and stability on wet ramps, gravel shoulders, and winter roads. It works with Intelligent Traction Management modes—Normal, Snow, Sand, and Mud—to help the Ridgeline adapt to surface conditions while pulling a trailer.

Is there camera tech to make hitching easier?

Yes. The standard Rearview Camera with Dynamic Guidelines offers wide, normal, and top-down views to help you align the hitch, back confidently, and position your trailer accurately at the launch or campsite.

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