Chevrolet
Colorado
Honda
Ridgeline
Chevrolet Colorado vs Honda Ridgeline: 2023 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Chevrolet Colorado comes out ahead of the Honda Ridgeline on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Colorado
Overall
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific generation. The first generation (circa 2004-2012) is viewed as a basic, utilitarian work truck with significant reliability concerns, particularly regarding the four-cylinder engine's timing chain. The second generation (2015-2022) receives a more positive reception, described as a decent, reliable choice that offers good value, especially when compared to competitors carrying a price premium.
Best version to buy
For the second generation (2015-2022), the diesel-powered Duramax models are noted for their strong torque and up to 30 MPG highway fuel economy. The ZR2 trim is highlighted for its exceptional off-road capability.
Known issues
- ⚠, consider waiting for later production years, and investigate manufacturer buyback or lemon law processes if encountering serious defects. A thorough test drive with the entire family is considered essential to evaluate space.
Ridgeline
Overall
Mixed to positive sentiment overall. The Ridgeline is consistently praised for its superior ride quality, handling, and daily driving comfort, attributed to its unibody construction and independent rear suspension which make it feel more like a car or SUV than a traditional truck. The V6 engine is appreciated for its smooth, naturally aspirated power delivery and VTEC character.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a definitive "best" trim. Feedback indicates frustration with Honda's packaging, where desirable features (e.g., premium audio) are locked behind top trims like the Black Edition, which may not offer a Bose system.
Known issues
- ⚠Transmission problems (2017-2019 6-speed): rough shifting, clunking, requiring premature fluid changes or flushes as early as 35,000 miles, significant reliability concerns. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Poor driver-assist system implementation: auto high beams described as "unusable" (cycling on/off erratically), radar cruise control described as "jerky" in traffic, lane-keeping assist ineffective on back roads. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Transmission behavior (9-speed): described as "lazy" or unrefined with paddle shifters, can get warm under heavy load. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Chevrolet Colorado is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Honda Ridgeline, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Honda Ridgeline is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Chevrolet Colorado or the Honda Ridgeline?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Chevrolet Colorado and the Honda Ridgeline. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Chevrolet Colorado or the Honda Ridgeline?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Chevrolet Colorado or the Honda Ridgeline?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Chevrolet Colorado or the Honda Ridgeline?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Chevrolet Colorado than the Honda Ridgeline. See the known issues comparison above.