Honda’s mid-size pickup truck has always been special, for many reasons. Of course, the biggest one was the fact that it rides on a unibody platform, unlike other pickup trucks, which feature a typical BoF layout. For the next year, the Japanese manufacturer is about to bring something even more special, rumors say. It looks like we could see a high-performance version of the model, which will come as the 2021 Honda Ridgeline Type R.
At this point, the officials are still quiet on this matter but if this special version is about to arrive, we have no doubt it will come with all kinds of upgrades, compared to the standard model. That refers to all aspects of the truck, including the engine, mechanics and aesthetics we presume that the new model would come along with the standard model, sometime in the last quarter of the year, or in early 2021.
2021 Honda Ridgeline Type R Redesign
When it comes to the base layout, the 2021 Honda Ridgeline Type R will share many parts with the standard model. Of course, we are talking about the chassis and other basic elements, which have many things in common with Honda Pilot as well. However, there is no doubt that this particular version would come with a plethora of updates. The first thing that comes to mind is the mechanical aspect. Of course, we would see a completely new suspension setup, stiffer and closer to the ground. Unlike other performance versions of mid-size trucks, which are pretty capable off-roaders, this will be more of a street racer, with lower ground clearance and a lower center of gravity. Besides the new suspension, you may expect new brakes and other chassis reinforcements.
Styling
In terms of the styling, we have no doubt that the Japanese manufacturer will tend to accentuate the model’s performance character. Therefore, you may count on a completely new body kit, with more aggressive bumpers, side skirts and similar things. A new grille design is also expected, as well as a lot of black trim, which will come in a combination with unique color options. Furthermore, we count on new wheels designs, which will also be bigger and come with lower-profile tires. On the other side, the overall layout will remain the same, so you may count on the familiar shape, face etc.
Interior
We should see a couple of upgrades on the inside as well. If you look in other Type R models through history, one of the most notable details has always been that red interior color scheme, which is expected to be in the new 2021 Honda Ridgeline Type R as well. It will come in a combination with some pretty exclusive materials, including carbon fiber. Furthermore, we should see upgraded seats and a plethora of other additions.
On the other side, the overall cabin design will remain familiar. Despite the upgrades, the dashboard will feature the same overall design, just like the rest of the cabin. That means the new model won’t be just attractive, but also practical and comfortable, as we are talking about the biggest cabin in the class, with two generous rows of seats.
2021 Honda Ridgeline Type R Engine
Of course, one of the most interesting parts of the 2021 Honda Ridgeline Type R will be the engine. The current, standard model comes with a well-known 3.5-liter V6 engine, which puts out around 280 horsepower. It comes in pair with a 9-speed automatic transmission and delivers a pretty smooth ride. Of course, the new version would come with something much more powerful and if we can rely on rumors and unofficial reports, that will probably be a turbo V6 engine. However, details are still unknown, so we can only speculate about engine size, max output and similar things. Speaking of the max output, some sources suggest around 350-400 horses, others suggest even more.
2021 Honda Ridgeline Type R Release Date and Price
Despite the rumors, it’s still hard to say whether this performance truck is coming or not. The officials are still quiet about this model, so take this article with a reserve. When it comes to the price, there is no doubt that this version would be significantly more expensive considered to the current model. It would probably go between 45.000 and 50.000 dollars.