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ReprintsComing: More efficient Ridgeline
Hans Greimel
Automotive News
October 13, 2008 - 12:01 am ET
TOKYO — Although contrarian Honda largely resisted the industry's plunge into low-mpg trucks, the Ridgeline pickup shows the automaker is not immune to herd instincts. "It's a very nice concept, a very nice car. But the sales aren't so successful," Executive Vice President Koichi Kondo said in an interview here in August. "We have been discussing the next generation, what the weaknesses are and what will add value." The Ridgeline was freshened for 2009. The key to making the next update stand out will be improving its fuel efficiency, Honda says. The Ridgeline stands apart from its rivals with a unibody frame. But the pickup has suffered from tumbling demand for big vehicles that get poor fuel economy amid soaring gasoline prices. Through July, Honda sold 22,061 Ridgelines, down 17.3 percent from the year-ago total. The Ridgeline is pricey, starting at $28,670, including shipping. Kondo said Honda needs to improve the Ridgeline's fuel efficiency to lift it above the pack. "Capacitywise as a pickup truck, it has enough — loading capacity, towing power. Everything is OK," he said. "But fuel efficiency is the key." Honda also is considering extending the lineup under the Ridgeline badge. But one thing the company won't do is bulk up the truck so it is closer to full-sized, Kondo said. He would not say when the next model change will arrive or what the improved mileage target is. The Ridgeline was introduced in 2005 and has yet to get a full makeover. The current model gets 15 mpg city and 20 highway. |
You can reach Hans Greimel at hgreimel@crain.com.
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The Ridgeline was freshened for 2009. Honda says fuel efficiency will be the key to making the next update stand out. |
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