More than first impressions...

[Ridgeline4wd_Archive]

I rarely post but thought it might be time...

I have a white RTL with bug shield, vent visors, carpet floor mats, rear mud guards and the factory trailer hitch.

I bought the vehicle for the express purpose of towing my 1984 CRX Solo II car. I have an all-aluminum Trailex trailer so my total towing weight is just about 2,500 pounds.

At this point I couldn't be happier with the truck. It rides well, tows great and is extremely stable while towing. I came from a 2001 S-10 and it goes without saying that the Ridgeline is light years better.

So far my mileage has ranged from a low of 13.6 (really, really stiff head wind!) to 23.6 highway without the trailer. In general I have been getting between 15.2 and 17.5 while towing and I think for the size and weight of the vehicle that is acceptable. I generally tow at the speed limit + five just about everywhere I go. The little I drive the truck around town mileage has been in the 17-19 mpg range. For the most part all I use the truck for is towing.

I have a couple of minor gripes. Because of the shape of the mirrors the angled cutout on the lower edge makes backing up difficult. As I'm sure others have mentioned the rear seat head rests make it impossible to see behind and mine are residing on my dresser in the house! Other than that I cannot really find much to complain about. Honda did their homework.

Scott

2006 Ridgline RTL
1999 Civic Si
1984 CRX
1967 Honda S-800

[Ridgeline4wd_Archive]

Our experience is similar. Our towing MPG was worse on our first trip, about 11.6. That was extended uphill towing. The next trip over the same route we used premium gas and got closer to 16 MPG, which is much better. We've only cracked 20 MPG on one tank. It's usually 17-19. I'm still hoping to see some improvement in daily driving MPG.

[Ridgeline4wd_Archive]

I've often wished the rearview mirrors were larger, but I've gotten used to them and don't find that I have any problems with visibility any more. I do back up very carefully, though! 8)

[Ridgeline4wd_Archive]

Great color choice hondaman!!!

After reading a couple comments here about removing the rear head restraints, I removed mine and it make a GREAT difference in visibility. I simply carry them in the underseat storage system for those ocassions when I need them (hauling passengers).

:)