Ford
Sport Trac
Honda
Ridgeline
Ford Sport Trac vs Honda Ridgeline: 2021 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Honda Ridgeline comes out ahead of the Ford Sport Trac 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
Sport Trac
Overall
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific generation and powertrain. The vehicle is frequently described as a practical, comfortable, and nostalgic "car-truck thingy" that blends passenger space with light utility, often praised for its sliding rear window and comfortable interior derived from the Explorer. However, significant and recurrent criticism centers on mechanical reliability, particularly concerning the 4.0L SOHC V6 engine and its associated 5R55E transmission.
Best version to buy
Second-generation models (2007-2010) equipped with the 4.6L V8 and 6R80 6-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain is repeatedly cited as superior in reliability and performance to the 4.0L V6 and 5-speed automatic.
Known issues
- ⚠4.0L SOHC V6 timing chain system rattle/failure: Primary chain rattle noise at 2000-3000 RPM, potential for catastrophic failure requiring engine removal for rear chain service. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠5R55E transmission reliability: Noted for failures and being a "lighter duty" transmission; one owner reported a vehicle having its third transmission replaced. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Front suspension and steering component wear: Ball joints, CV axles, and other components wear out, limiting lift potential and requiring frequent maintenance. Frequency: recurrent.
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 Honda Ridgeline is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Ford Sport Trac, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Ford Sport Trac is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Not sure which one fits you?
Answer a few questions and get a personalized recommendation.
Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Ford Sport Trac or the Honda Ridgeline?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Ford Sport Trac and the Honda Ridgeline. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Ford Sport Trac 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 Ford Sport Trac 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 Ford Sport Trac or the Honda Ridgeline?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Ford Sport Trac than the Honda Ridgeline. See the known issues comparison above.