2020 Honda Ridgeline Gets a New Nine-speed Transmission

Honda has just announced a few updates to the Ridgeline midsize pickup for 2020. Actually, all except one were already available in Canada, but not on the base models sold in the U.S.

What you should care about is the new nine-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, which replaces the old six-speed unit.

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In the past, we’ve complained about this ZF-sourced gearbox (also found on select Pilot models) for being slow to react, especially when asked to downshift, but it does help reduce fuel consumption.

At the time of writing, Natural Resources Canada had yet to announce the official rating, but Honda says the Ridgeline now achieves 9.5 L/100 km on the highway versus 10 L/100 km previously.

There are no changes to the 3.5-litre V6 engine, which still produces 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque while towing up to 5,000 pounds.

Once again, Ridgeline buyers can choose from four trim levels including the top-line Black Edition, which makes a return. This one stands out with black 18-inch wheels, a black bumper skid garnish, a black chrome front grille bar, Black Edition seat stitching and floor mats, plus red ambient lighting.

Canadian pricing for the 2020 Honda Ridgeline starts at $42,490, an increase of $1,500 compared with the outgoing model.