2028 Honda Ridgeline Release Date & Next-Gen Info – Honda will not offer a 2027 model-year Ridgeline for U.S. buyers. Production of the current second-generation truck is scheduled to pause in the fourth quarter of 2026 at the company’s Alabama plant. The halt stems from the aging 3.5-liter V6 failing to meet stricter emissions regulations. Reports from Automotive News and coverage by Car and Driver and Carscoops indicate an approximately 18-month production gap. During this time, Honda will retool for the next model and shift capacity to other vehicles such as the Passport and Odyssey.
As a result, dealers are not expected to receive new 2027 Ridgelines. Shoppers looking for the current generation should consider remaining 2026 inventory while it lasts.
Next-Gen Honda Ridgeline Confirmed for 2028
Honda officially confirmed development of the third-generation Ridgeline in July 2026. The company stated the redesigned midsize pickup will arrive “within two years,” pointing to a 2028 on-sale window. Production of the new truck is planned to restart at the Alabama Auto Plant, with design work handled at Honda’s Southern California studio and engineering at the Ohio Auto Development Center.
Most industry sources, including Car and Driver, MotorTrend, Autoblog, and Honda’s own announcement, expect the third-generation Ridgeline to reach U.S. showrooms in calendar year 2028 (likely as a 2028 or early 2029 model-year vehicle). Exact timing will depend on when production ramps up in the second half of 2028.
Expected Design and Capability Changes
Honda has teased a more rugged silhouette and promised “an even more rugged design” along with improved capabilities focused on recreational buyers. The teaser image released in July 2026 shows a boxier outline compared with the outgoing model. Expect stronger visual ties to recent Honda SUVs such as the Passport TrailSport, including more aggressive cladding, larger wheels/tires, and a tougher overall stance.
The truck will retain its unibody construction rather than switching to body-on-frame. Honda executives have noted the unibody approach has supported solid sales (around 45,000 units annually) and continues to meet customer needs for a car-like ride combined with pickup utility. Signature features such as the dual-action tailgate and in-bed trunk are widely expected to carry over.
Powertrain: Hybrid V6 Likely
The current 280-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 is being retired due to emissions rules. Honda is developing a new hybrid V6 system for its midsize vehicles (Pilot, Passport, Odyssey, and Ridgeline). The system pairs a V6 with up to three electric motors and is projected to improve fuel economy by more than 30 percent and acceleration by more than 10 percent versus current gas-only powertrains.
While Honda has not officially confirmed the hybrid for the Ridgeline’s launch, multiple reports indicate it is a strong possibility for the 2028 model, either as standard or available. An updated conventional V6 may also be offered initially. The new powertrain is designed to meet emissions standards while boosting everyday usability and capability.
Pricing and Market Position Expectations
Current 2026 Ridgeline pricing starts in the low $40,000s (around $40,795–$42,000 depending on trim and destination). Analysts expect the third-generation model to start in a similar range or slightly higher (estimates commonly fall in the low-to-mid $40,000s) to reflect updates in design, technology, and powertrain. Exact MSRP will be announced closer to launch.
The Ridgeline will continue targeting buyers who prioritize comfort, car-like handling, and innovative bed features over maximum towing or off-road specialization offered by body-on-frame rivals such as the Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado, and GMC Canyon.
What This Means for U.S. Buyers?
U.S. shoppers interested in a new Ridgeline face a gap from late 2026 through much of 2028. Current-generation trucks remain available while supplies last, and the used/certified pre-owned market will be the primary option during the hiatus. The third-generation model is positioned as a significant step forward in ruggedness, efficiency, and capability while preserving the Ridgeline’s unique unibody character.
Honda has emphasized that the Ridgeline remains an important part of its U.S. lineup. Official details on final specifications, pricing, and exact on-sale timing are expected in the coming months as the 2028 model approaches production. For the latest updates, check Honda’s official channels and trusted automotive outlets.