Hey guys! Thinking about snagging a 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL? You've come to the right place. Let's dive deep into everything you need to know before making that leap. We're talking real, honest reviews, not just the fluff you see on the Honda website. Let's get started, shall we?

What Makes the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL Stand Out?

The 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL isn't your typical truck. It's like the Swiss Army knife of pickups, blending car-like comfort with truck-like utility. One of the biggest draws is its independent rear suspension (IRS), which gives it a ride smoother than most of its competitors. Seriously, hit a bump in this thing, and you'll barely feel it. Other trucks? You might need a chiropractor afterward. The RTL trim kicks things up a notch with leather seats, heated front seats, and a bunch of other creature comforts that make it a really nice place to spend your time. Plus, the dual-action tailgate and in-bed trunk are genuinely useful features you won't find on other trucks. Imagine tailgating with that in-bed trunk filled with ice and your favorite drinks—genius, right? It's powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that churns out 280 horsepower, which is plenty for most everyday tasks. Whether you're hauling gear for a weekend camping trip or just running errands around town, the Ridgeline RTL has got you covered. Fuel economy is decent too, especially for a truck. You're looking at around 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, which isn't bad at all. The interior is well-designed and intuitive, with easy-to-use controls and a straightforward infotainment system. No need to spend hours figuring out how to adjust the temperature or change the radio station. It's all right there at your fingertips. Overall, the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL is a fantastic option for anyone who wants a truck that's both capable and comfortable. It's not the biggest or the baddest truck on the market, but it's incredibly versatile and easy to live with.

Real-World Performance: How Does the RTL Handle?

Alright, let's talk about how the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL actually performs in the real world. Because let’s face it, those spec sheets and manufacturer claims only tell half the story. Under the hood, you’ve got that trusty 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. That's more than enough pep for daily driving and even some light-duty towing. Speaking of towing, the RTL can handle up to 5,000 pounds, which is perfectly adequate for hauling a small boat, a couple of jet skis, or a lightweight trailer. But remember, this isn't a heavy-duty work truck, so if you're planning on towing anything bigger, you might want to look elsewhere. Where the Ridgeline RTL really shines is in its ride quality. Thanks to that independent rear suspension, it feels more like an SUV than a traditional truck. Bumps and potholes are absorbed with ease, making for a smooth and comfortable ride, even on rough roads. The handling is also surprisingly nimble for a truck. It's easy to maneuver in tight spaces, and the steering is responsive and precise. Parking is a breeze, thanks to the available parking sensors and rearview camera. Off-road, the Ridgeline RTL is surprisingly capable, thanks to its standard all-wheel-drive system and decent ground clearance. It can handle dirt roads, gravel paths, and even some mild trails without breaking a sweat. However, it's not a rock crawler, so don't expect to tackle any extreme off-road terrain. In terms of fuel economy, the Ridgeline RTL delivers respectable numbers. You can expect to get around 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, which is on par with other trucks in its class. Overall, the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL offers a well-rounded performance that's perfect for daily driving, light-duty towing, and occasional off-road adventures. It's not the most powerful or the most capable truck on the market, but it's definitely one of the most comfortable and refined.

Interior Comfort and Tech: Is the RTL a Nice Place to Be?

Let’s be real, guys, spending time in your truck means interior comfort and tech matter a lot. So, how does the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL stack up? Pretty darn well, actually. The RTL trim is where Honda starts throwing in the nice-to-have features that make a big difference on those long drives or even just your daily commute. First off, you get leather-trimmed seats. They're comfortable, supportive, and definitely give the interior a more premium feel. Plus, the front seats are heated, which is a godsend on those cold winter mornings. The driver's seat has power adjustments, so you can easily find the perfect driving position. The passenger seat, however, is manually adjustable, which is a bit of a letdown. The dashboard layout is clean and functional, with all the controls within easy reach. The infotainment system is easy to use, with a responsive touchscreen display. It's not the flashiest system on the market, but it gets the job done. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, so you can easily connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps. One of the standout features of the Ridgeline RTL is its spacious cabin. There's plenty of room for both front and rear passengers, even on long trips. The rear seats are also surprisingly comfortable, with ample legroom and headroom. Storage space is also plentiful, with a large center console, door pockets, and a glove compartment. The in-bed trunk is another unique feature that adds to the Ridgeline's versatility. It's a great place to store tools, groceries, or anything else you want to keep out of the elements. On the downside, some of the interior materials feel a bit cheap for a truck in this price range. The plastic trim on the dashboard and door panels could be better. Also, the infotainment system lacks some of the advanced features found on rival trucks, such as a digital instrument cluster or a head-up display. Overall, the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL offers a comfortable and well-equipped interior that's perfect for daily driving and long trips. It's not the most luxurious truck on the market, but it's definitely a nice place to be.

Reliability and Maintenance: Will the RTL Last?

When you're dropping some serious coin on a new truck, reliability and maintenance are huge factors, right? Nobody wants to be stuck on the side of the road or constantly shelling out for repairs. So, how does the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL fare in this department? Well, Honda has a long-standing reputation for building reliable vehicles, and the Ridgeline is no exception. It consistently scores well in reliability surveys and owner reviews. The 3.5-liter V6 engine is a proven workhorse that's been used in various Honda models for years. It's known for its durability and longevity. The rest of the drivetrain is also pretty solid, with a robust transmission and a well-engineered all-wheel-drive system. Of course, no vehicle is completely bulletproof, and the Ridgeline does have a few potential trouble spots. Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system, such as glitches and software bugs. Others have experienced problems with the automatic emergency braking system. However, these issues are relatively rare and are usually covered under warranty. In terms of maintenance, the Ridgeline is pretty easy to live with. Regular oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid checks are all that's required to keep it running smoothly. The maintenance schedule is straightforward and easy to follow. Honda also offers a variety of extended warranty options that can provide added peace of mind. One thing to keep in mind is that the Ridgeline's independent rear suspension is more complex than the solid rear axle found on traditional trucks. This means that repairs to the rear suspension can be more expensive. However, the IRS also provides a smoother ride and better handling, so it's a trade-off. Overall, the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL is a reliable and well-built truck that should last for many years with proper care and maintenance. It's not the cheapest truck to maintain, but its reliability and longevity make it a worthwhile investment.

Is the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL Right for You? The Verdict

So, after all that, is the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL the right truck for you? The answer, as always, depends on your needs and priorities. If you're looking for a traditional, body-on-frame truck with maximum towing and hauling capabilities, the Ridgeline probably isn't for you. There are other trucks out there that can handle heavier loads and more extreme off-road conditions. However, if you want a comfortable, refined, and versatile truck that's perfect for daily driving, light-duty towing, and occasional weekend adventures, the Ridgeline RTL is definitely worth considering. It offers a smooth ride, a spacious interior, and a host of convenient features that you won't find on other trucks. The in-bed trunk and dual-action tailgate are game-changers, and the independent rear suspension makes it feel more like an SUV than a truck. The RTL trim adds a touch of luxury with its leather seats, heated front seats, and other premium features. It's not the cheapest truck on the market, but it offers a great value for the money. Ultimately, the best way to decide if the Ridgeline RTL is right for you is to take it for a test drive. See how it feels on the road, try out the features, and compare it to other trucks in its class. Consider what you'll primarily use the truck for and how important factors like comfort, fuel economy, and reliability are to you. If you prioritize those things, the 2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL could be the perfect truck for your lifestyle. Happy truck hunting, guys!