Originally appeared on Automoblog.net
Honda’s 2017 Ridgeline recipe includes nontraditional ingredients. Competition in truck world is harsh and Honda is, after all, more known for their fuel sipping sedans. Can they compete in a market dominated by the likes of General Motors and Toyota"

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In a surging midsize truck market, will anybody take Honda seriously"
I spent the entire month of May in San Antonio, Texas, working on Honda’s massive training program for the 2017 Ridgeline. I was one of the vehicle coaches, demonstrating the capabilities of the vehicle to Honda reps from around the country. I come from the traditional truck world where a certain recipe stands: body-on-frame, solid rear axles, and four-wheel drive. Trucks following this formula are capable, tough, and have solid sales. Recently, the Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Colorado, and GMC Canyon underwent significant redesigns. The 2017 Honda Ridgeline is completely redesigned too but with a slight (or perhaps drastic) variation – being these traditional truck elements are not found on the 2017 Honda Ridgeline.
When I first drove it, I was impressed. It’s quiet, fuel efficient, and powerful. I took it through an off-road course and towing exercises with nearly 4,000 lbs. behind me. Each time, I walked away feeling like I experienced something special. Something different.
While the list of engineering and design concepts is prac...