22 MPG combined isn’t going to win any hypermiling competitions, but for the 2019 Honda Ridgeline FWD, it represents a pragmatic compromise. This isn’t a truck bought by image-obsessed show-offs, it’s a vehicle for homeowners, weekend warriors, and active families who need light-duty hauling and the occasional off-pavement excursion without the compromises of a traditional body-on-frame pickup.

City and highway performance

Breaking down the EPA numbers, the 2019 Ridgeline FWD 3.5L returns 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city figure is arguably the more telling one. Ridgeline owners generally aren’t racking up endless highway miles, they’re using it for errands, home improvement runs, and family duties. The stop-and-go nature of city driving is where fuel economy often suffers most, and 19 MPG is respectable given the Ridgeline’s size and inherent capabilities.

The 26 MPG highway figure means it’s reasonably efficient on longer trips, minimizing fuel costs when venturing out for weekend adventures or family vacations. The 6-speed automatic transmission, while not offering the gear count of some modern trucks, is well-matched to the 3.5L V6, making the most of the engine’s powerband across various driving conditions. You aren’t penalized for needing a truck.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Honda Ridgeline FWD 3.5L to be $2,000. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a blend of city and highway driving, and assuming national average fuel prices. This figure provides a standardized way to compare fuel costs across different vehicles. While individual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits, location, and current fuel prices, the $2,000 estimate gives potential buyers a solid benchmark.

Real-world expectations

The EPA figures are a useful starting point, but real-world fuel economy often varies. Expect to see numbers slightly different from the official estimates, depending on driving style, load, terrain, and weather conditions. Aggressive acceleration, frequent heavy loads, and steep hills will decrease fuel economy. Conversely, gentle driving, consistent speeds, and flat terrain can improve it. Many owners report achieving numbers close to the EPA estimates in mixed driving conditions. Regular maintenance, including tire inflation and timely oil changes, also plays a role in maintaining optimal fuel efficiency.

How it compares

The 2019 Ridgeline FWD competes with a range of mid-size trucks that offer different levels of capability and fuel economy. The Toyota Tacoma, a traditional body-on-frame truck, manages around 20 MPG combined with its V6 engine, highlighting a 2 MPG deficit compared to the Ridgeline. Likewise, the Chevrolet Colorado, typically around 21 MPG combined with its gas V6, comes up short. The Nissan Frontier, a more basic mid-size truck, often achieves numbers closer to 19 MPG combined.

These comparisons show that the Ridgeline offers a fuel efficiency advantage, albeit a small one, over some of its more traditional competitors. This difference stems from the Ridgeline’s unibody construction, which benefits from less overall weight. Buyers should consider their priorities, is maximizing fuel economy critical, or is rugged off-road capability more important? If the former, the Ridgeline gains an advantage.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and braking can noticeably improve fuel economy in the Ridgeline. Avoid abrupt starts and stops, and anticipate traffic flow to maintain a consistent speed. The Ridgeline’s V6 offers sufficient power, there’s rarely a need to push the engine hard unless towing or hauling heavy loads.

Proper tire inflation is essential for optimal fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and ensure it matches the recommended level, which is listed on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel economy.

Minimize the use of accessories that drain the battery. Air conditioning, especially on hot days, can significantly impact fuel economy. Use it sparingly and consider opening windows when possible. Avoid idling the engine unnecessarily, as it wastes fuel and contributes to emissions.

Reduce weight in the bed and cabin. Carrying unnecessary cargo adds extra weight, forcing the engine to work harder and burning more fuel. Remove items when they are not needed to reduce the load on the engine. Empty any collected junk in the truckbed for any errands.

Consider using cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed. Cruise control can help prevent unintentional speed fluctuations and improve fuel economy on long drives. Just be sure to stay vigilant and prepared to disengage it if necessary to maintain safe driving conditions.

For a broader perspective, you can explore all Honda fuel economy data and RIDGELINE MPG across all years.