Choosing between two of the most popular mid-size trucks can be a tough decision. The 2021 Honda Ridgeline and the 2021 Toyota Tacoma both offer unique advantages for truck buyers.
The Ridgeline, with its unibody construction, often appeals to those seeking a more refined ride and car-like handling. On the other hand, the Tacoma has built a legendary reputation for its ruggedness, off-road prowess, and traditional body-on-frame design.
If you’re weighing these two formidable options for your next vehicle, understanding their key differences is crucial. We’ll break down what makes each truck stand out, helping you decide which one best fits your lifestyle and needs.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | 2021 Ridgeline | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L V6 | 2.7L 4-Cyl or 3.5L V6 |
| Horsepower | 280 hp | 159 hp (2.7L) / 278 hp (3.5L) |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft | 177 lb-ft (2.7L) / 265 lb-ft (3.5L) |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic | 6-speed automatic or manual |
| Drivetrain | Standard AWD | RWD or 4WD |
| Max Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs | Up to 6,800 lbs |
| Max Payload Capacity | 1,580 lbs | Up to 1,680 lbs |
| Bed Length | 5’4″ | 5′ or 6’1″ |
| Infotainment Screen | 8-inch touchscreen | 7-inch touchscreen |
| Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Standard | Available |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 4 or 5 |
| Ground Clearance | 7.9 inches | Up to 9.4 inches |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Engine & Performance
- 2021 Ridgeline: Features a 3.5L V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. It offers a smooth, car-like ride and competent acceleration for daily driving and light towing. Its unibody construction contributes to better on-road manners but limits extreme off-road capability.
- Tacoma: Offers a standard 2.7L 4-cylinder (159 hp, 180 lb-ft) or an optional 3.5L V6 (278 hp, 265 lb-ft) with either a 6-speed automatic or manual transmission. The V6 is powerful enough for most tasks, and its body-on-frame design excels in rugged terrain and heavy-duty towing. The ride can be a bit rougher on pavement compared to the Ridgeline.
- Winner: Tacoma
Towing & Payload Capacity
- 2021 Ridgeline: Offers a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs and a payload capacity of 1,580 lbs. It’s well-suited for smaller trailers, ATVs, or weekend DIY projects. Its unibody design means it’s not built for the heaviest hauling tasks.
- Tacoma: Can tow up to 6,800 lbs (with the V6) and has a maximum payload of 1,680 lbs. This makes it a more capable option for larger boats, campers, or heavier construction materials. Its robust construction is designed for more demanding work.
- Winner: Tacoma
Interior Comfort & Features
- 2021 Ridgeline: Boasts a more refined and car-like interior with comfortable seating, a user-friendly infotainment system, and ample passenger space. It offers a quieter cabin and a premium feel, making it ideal for families and long commutes. Features like the dual-action tailgate and in-bed storage add practicality.
- Tacoma: The interior is more utilitarian and durable, designed for rugged use. While comfortable enough, it’s less plush than the Ridgeline, with more hard plastics. Higher trims offer good tech and creature comforts, but the overall ambiance is less upscale.
- Winner: Ridgeline
Off-Road Capability
- 2021 Ridgeline: While equipped with available all-wheel drive and decent ground clearance, the Ridgeline’s unibody construction and independent rear suspension prioritize on-road comfort. It can handle light off-roading and inclement weather but is not designed for serious trail crawling.
- Tacoma: Built on a traditional body-on-frame chassis with available off-road packages (TRD Off-Road, TRD Pro), the Tacoma is a true off-roader. Features like locking rear differentials, advanced traction control, and higher ground clearance make it exceptionally capable on challenging terrain.
- Winner: Tacoma
Fuel Economy
- 2021 Ridgeline: Achieves an EPA-estimated 19 MPG city and 24 MPG highway with its standard V6 and AWD. This is competitive for a midsize truck, especially considering its V6 power.
- Tacoma: The 4-cylinder engine offers slightly better MPG (up to 20 city/23 highway), while the V6 is comparable to the Ridgeline (up to 19 city/24 highway). Real-world mileage can vary significantly with driving style and load.
- Winner: Tacoma
Cargo Bed & Utility
- 2021 Ridgeline: Features a 5-foot-4-inch bed with a unique dual-action tailgate that can swing open or drop down. It also boasts a lockable in-bed trunk, offering secure, hidden storage. The bed is made of durable composite material.
- Tacoma: Offers a standard 5-foot bed or an optional 6-foot bed. The bed is deeper and more traditional, with available bed liners and tie-down points. It’s a more straightforward, work-oriented cargo area.
- Winner: Ridgeline
Ride & Handling
- 2021 Ridgeline: Delivers a refined, car-like ride thanks to its unibody construction and independent suspension. It handles corners with confidence and offers a smooth, comfortable experience for daily driving.
- Tacoma: The body-on-frame design and leaf-spring rear suspension provide a more traditional truck ride, which can be stiffer and bouncier on uneven surfaces. However, it offers a more connected feel to the road and better stability when carrying heavy loads.
- Winner: Ridgeline
Reliability & Resale Value
- 2021 Ridgeline: Generally well-regarded for reliability, though not as historically proven as the Tacoma. Its resale value is strong, but typically trails behind the Tacoma.
- Tacoma: Renowned for its exceptional reliability and durability, with a strong track record of longevity. It consistently holds one of the highest resale values in its class, making it a smart long-term investment.
- Winner: Tacoma
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Overall Ride Comfort | 2021 Ridgeline |
| Off-Road Capability | Tacoma |
| Towing Capacity | Tacoma |
| Payload Capacity | Tacoma |
| Interior Refinement | 2021 Ridgeline |
| Cargo Versatility (In-Bed Features) | 2021 Ridgeline |
| Standard AWD | 2021 Ridgeline |
| Reliability Reputation | Tacoma |
What They Have in Common
- Body Style: Both the 2021 Honda Ridgeline and the Toyota Tacoma are mid-size pickup trucks, offering a versatile combination of passenger comfort and cargo hauling capabilities. They are designed to handle a variety of tasks, from daily commuting to light-duty work.
- Standard Safety Features: Both vehicles come equipped with a suite of standard driver-assistance technologies designed to enhance safety and awareness on the road. These often include features like forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking, providing peace of mind for drivers.
- Available All-Wheel Drive: While the Ridgeline comes standard with AWD, the Tacoma offers an available 4WD system. This capability allows both trucks to tackle challenging road conditions, from slippery surfaces to off-road trails, providing enhanced traction and control.
- V6 Engine Option: Both the 2021 Ridgeline and the Tacoma offer a powerful V6 engine as an option, providing ample performance for towing, hauling, and acceleration. This engine choice ensures that both trucks can handle more demanding jobs when needed.
2021 Ridgeline Vs Tacoma Buying Guide
Performance and Powertrain
The 2021 Honda Ridgeline offers a standard 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, delivering a smooth and refined driving experience. Its unibody construction contributes to better on-road handling and a more comfortable ride, making it ideal for daily commuting and light hauling. The torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in various conditions.
In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Tacoma is known for its ruggedness and off-road prowess. It offers a choice between a 2.7-liter four-cylinder or a more potent 3.5-liter V6 engine, both mated to either a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. The Tacoma’s body-on-frame chassis is built for durability and tackling challenging terrain, though it results in a less refined on-road demeanor. (See Also: Nintendo Switch Vs Switch Lite )
Capability and Towing
When it comes to capability, the Ridgeline boasts a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds and a payload capacity of up to 1,580 pounds. Its innovative dual-action tailgate and in-bed trunk offer unique utility for hauling and storage. While capable for most everyday tasks and weekend adventures, it’s generally not designed for heavy-duty towing or extreme off-roading.
The Tacoma, especially with the V6 engine and appropriate towing package, can tow up to 6,800 pounds. Its payload capacity is also competitive, reaching up to 1,680 pounds. The availability of off-road specific trims like the TRD Pro, with features like locking differentials and advanced suspension, makes the Tacoma a superior choice for serious off-road enthusiasts and those who frequently tow heavier loads.
Interior Comfort and Technology
The 2021 Honda Ridgeline features a car-like interior that prioritizes comfort and passenger space. The cabin is quiet and well-appointed with quality materials, offering a premium feel for a truck. It comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, along with a suite of Honda Sensing safety and driver-assist technologies.
The Tacoma’s interior is more utilitarian and focused on durability. While comfortable for its class, it may not offer the same level of refinement as the Ridgeline. Higher trims offer more upscale features, and a standard touchscreen with smartphone integration is available. However, the overall design leans more towards ruggedness than luxury, and some of the cabin materials might show wear more readily over time. (See Also: Pixel 6a Vs Iphone 12 )
Value and Practicality
The Ridgeline’s unibody construction translates to better fuel efficiency for its class, making it a more economical choice for daily driving. Its comfortable ride and versatile bed features add to its practicality for suburban lifestyles. While its initial price point might be slightly higher than some base Tacomas, its blend of comfort, technology, and everyday usability offers strong value for those seeking a multi-purpose vehicle.
The Tacoma holds its resale value exceptionally well, making it a sound long-term investment. Its robust build and legendary reliability contribute to lower long-term ownership costs, especially if used for demanding tasks. The wide range of trims and configurations allows buyers to tailor the vehicle to their specific needs and budget, offering flexibility for various types of truck buyers.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy 2021 Ridgeline If…
- You prioritize a comfortable and refined ride, more akin to an SUV than a traditional truck.
- You need a versatile truck with a clever in-bed trunk and a power-locking tailgate.
- Your primary use involves light to moderate hauling and towing, with a focus on everyday usability.
- You appreciate standard all-wheel drive for consistent traction in various weather conditions.
Buy Tacoma If…
- You require serious off-road capability and a robust, body-on-frame construction.
- You plan on frequent heavy-duty towing or hauling and need the highest possible payload and towing capacities.
- You prefer the option of a manual transmission for a more engaging driving experience.
- You value Toyota’s legendary reliability and a long-standing reputation in the truck market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which truck is better for off-roading?
The Toyota Tacoma is the clear winner for off-roading. Its body-on-frame construction, higher ground clearance, and available specialized trims like the TRD Pro with locking differentials and advanced suspension systems are specifically designed to handle challenging terrain and extreme off-road conditions. The Ridgeline, with its unibody design, is more suited for light off-road use and inclement weather.
What is the towing capacity of each truck?
The 2021 Honda Ridgeline has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. The 2021 Toyota Tacoma offers a higher maximum towing capacity of up to 6,800 pounds when properly equipped with the V6 engine and towing package. This makes the Tacoma a more capable option for those who frequently tow larger trailers or boats. (See Also: Galaxy Watch 6 Vs Active 2 )
Which truck has a more comfortable ride?
The 2021 Honda Ridgeline generally offers a more comfortable and refined ride, thanks to its unibody construction and independent rear suspension, which are more akin to a car. This results in less road noise and a smoother experience over bumps. The Tacoma’s body-on-frame design, while robust, typically leads to a firmer and less refined ride, especially on uneven surfaces.
What are the key differences in interior design?
The Ridgeline’s interior is designed with a focus on comfort, quietness, and a more upscale feel, featuring car-like ergonomics and quality materials. The Tacoma’s interior is more utilitarian and durable, prioritizing functionality for work and adventure. While comfortable, it may not offer the same level of refinement or soft-touch materials as the Ridgeline.
Which truck is a better daily driver?
For daily driving, the Honda Ridgeline is often preferred due to its car-like handling, smoother ride, and quieter cabin. Its comfortable interior and user-friendly technology make it an excellent choice for commuting and everyday errands. The Tacoma, while capable, can be less refined for daily use, with a potentially rougher ride and more engine noise.
Final Verdict
The 2021 Honda Ridgeline excels as a comfortable, refined, and versatile truck for everyday use, offering a car-like driving experience and innovative utility features. The 2021 Toyota Tacoma stands out for its ruggedness, off-road prowess, and superior towing capability, making it the go-to choice for serious adventurers and those needing to haul heavier loads. For most buyers seeking a comfortable daily driver with truck-like utility, the Ridgeline is the more practical choice.
Winner: 2021 Honda Ridgeline