2011 Honda Ridgeline

Honda Ridgeline defines practicality

The 2011 Honda Ridgeline can't boast the massive towing capabilities -- or the macho image -- of a full-size pickup like the 2011 Ford F-150 (Base MSRP: $22,790 to $51,525). But if you're more interested in getting the most reliable, passenger-friendly truck, and you don't plan to tow anything heavier than a small trailer or boat, experts say the midsize Honda Ridgeline may be a more practical choice. Honda hasn't changed the Ridgeline at all in two years; for more details, see our report on the 2009 Honda Ridgeline.

The Environmental Protection Agency's fuel-economy estimates for the Honda Ridgeline are unchanged as well. The 250-horsepower, 3.5-liter, V6 engine delivers 15 mpg city, 20 mpg highway and 17 mpg combined.

The Honda Ridgeline has not yet undergone the federal government's newly strengthened 2011 crash tests, although it does rate 4 stars (out of 5) for rollover resistance. At the independent Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the 2011 Ridgeline earns the highest rating of Good for front-, side- and rear-crash protection, but it has not yet been tested for rollover roof strength. The Ridgeline includes antilock brakes with brake assist, traction and stability control as well as front, front-side and curtain airbags and active front head restraints.

Base MSRP starts at $29,150 for the entry-level Ridgeline RT, which Edmunds.com finds "reasonably well-equipped" with full power accessories, cruise control and more. The $31,855 Ridgeline RTS adds dual-zone automatic climate control and an upgraded stereo, among other features, and the $34,730 Ridgeline RTL includes heated leather seats, a sunroof, satellite radio and more.