21 MPG combined isn’t going to win the 2017 Honda Ridgeline AWD 3.5L 6-cyl any green awards, but it’s a perfectly reasonable figure. It is a supremely practical, comfortable, and uniquely capable mid-size pickup aimed at buyers who prioritize usability over traditional truck swagger. This isn’t for the “rolling coal” crowd. The Ridgeline appeals to folks who need a pickup bed for weekend projects, hauling landscaping supplies, or the occasional trip to the dump, but who also want a vehicle that drives like a well-sorted SUV. And, crucially, it delivers car-like refinement that full-size (and even many mid-size) trucks simply can’t match. Those buyers, aware that they’re not towing horse trailers every day, find its fuel economy acceptable in exchange for its other virtues.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. That highway figure is perhaps the most surprising, given the Ridgeline’s upright profile, but it speaks to Honda’s engineering and the efficiency of its 3.5L V6 engine. The city figure is typical for a vehicle of this size and weight, especially one with all-wheel drive adding a small amount of drivetrain friction. Understanding these figures individually is critical. If your daily commute involves mostly stop-and-go traffic, expect your overall fuel economy to be closer to that 18 MPG mark.

If you spend most of your time on the open road, the 25 MPG highway figure is a realistic expectation.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Honda Ridgeline AWD 3.5L 6-cyl at $2,100. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a national average fuel price. Keep in mind this is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and the fuel prices in your area. Drivers who frequently tow or carry heavy loads, or those who live in areas with particularly high fuel costs, will likely spend more than $2,100 per year. Conversely, drivers with shorter commutes or who prioritize fuel efficiency can potentially spend less.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful benchmark, real world fuel economy is often different. Many Ridgeline owners achieve figures close to the EPA estimates, particularly on long highway drives. However, aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and carrying heavy loads can all significantly decrease fuel economy. Online forums and fuel tracking apps provide a wealth of user-submitted data, offering a more nuanced view of what to expect in various driving conditions. Pay attention to these owner reports for a broader view of RIDGELINE MPG across all years.

How it compares

Compared to other mid-size trucks from 2017, the Ridgeline’s fuel economy lands somewhere in the middle of the pack. The Toyota Tacoma, a perennial bestseller known for its ruggedness, achieves around 19 MPG combined with its V6 and 4WD. The Chevrolet Colorado, another popular choice, offers a similar fuel economy rating, hovering around 20 MPG combined with its V6 and 4WD.

The Nissan Frontier, a more budget-friendly option, can deliver around 17 MPG combined with its V6 and 4WD. The Ridgeline sacrifices a bit of traditional truck capability for significantly improved on-road manners and ride quality. Those prioritizing car-like comfort in a pickup will find the fuel economy tradeoff worthwhile. For complete context, review all Honda fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. Rapid acceleration consumes significantly more fuel than gradual acceleration. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. Likewise, avoid hard braking by allowing for plenty of following distance and anticipating stops.

Monitor your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure at least once a month and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside your driver’s side door.

Minimize unnecessary weight. Extra weight puts a strain on the engine and reduces fuel economy. Remove any items from the bed or cabin that you don’t need to carry. The Ridgeline can handle a payload, but only use it if you truly need it.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy on long drives. However, avoid using cruise control in hilly terrain, as the vehicle may downshift frequently to maintain speed. Using cruise control in the mountains will almost certainly hurt fuel economy.

Use the air conditioning sparingly. The air conditioner puts a load on the engine, which reduces fuel economy. Whenever possible, use the ventilation system or roll down the windows instead. But also be aware that at higher speeds, open windows increase drag, which also hurts fuel economy. Find the right balance.