2024 Honda Pickup Gets Increased Off-Road Performance and Upgraded Tech

The 2024 Honda Ridgeline is designed to work hard and play even harder with improved off-road performance, updated styling, and a more high-tech cabin. The first-ever Ridgeline TrailSport has been engineered to be more off-road capable and get weekend adventurers even farther off the beaten path with new features, including an off-road-tuned suspension, all-terrain tires, and steel underbody protection. All 2024 Ridgeline models will begin arriving in dealers this winter.

Taking Ridgeline’s rugged styling even further, “RIDGELINE” is stamped across the tailgate while the grille gets a sporty new mesh design. Inside, more advanced tech has been smartly integrated to enhance Ridgeline’s cabin experience. A new 7-inch digital instrument panel is now standard, featuring an all-digital tachometer on the left and a physical speedometer on the right. The display also includes user-selectable functions, such as Honda Sensing settings, vehicle information and more.

All Ridgeline trims get a new larger 9-inch color touchscreen with a faster processor for lag-free performance. Additionally, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility is now standard, and Ridgeline’s integrated navigation system has been simplified with new graphics and fewer menus. The Ridgeline Black Edition adds upgraded speaker performance to further enhance the listening experience of its premium audio system.

For increased comfort and functionality, all 2024 Ridgelines benefit from a new center console featuring a large integrated armrest and expanded storage. The new center-console storage bin can swallow a full-size tablet, while a larger storage tray ahead of the shifter can accommodate two large smartphones side by side and incorporates a Qi-compatible wireless charging pad.

The 2024 Honda Ridgeline will be available in four all-wheel drive trim levels: Sport, RTL, the new TrailSport with special off-road hardware, and the top-of-the-range Black Edition.

Ridgeline can also be uniquely customized with several post-production option packages, including the popular HPD Package. Designed to evoke Honda’s racing DNA, the popular HPD Package adds to Ridgeline’s rugged appearance with a unique grille treatment, black fender flares, aggressive wheels, and special graphics.

The Honda Ridgeline and Ridgeline TrailSport will continue to be built in America, exclusively at Honda’s Lincoln, Alabama, auto plant, continuing the 40-year legacy of Honda’s commitment to build products close to the customer.

Texas-Built Toyota Tundra Named ‘Truck of Texas’ for Second Time

Toyota’s 2024 Tundra was awarded the title “Truck of Texas” by the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) at its annual Texas Truck Rodeo event. This marks the second time in three years the vehicle has taken top honors at the event.

“The Tundra is not only an American story, but a Texan story: assembled at our manufacturing plant in San Antonio,” said Joe Moses, vice president, vehicle marketing and communications. “We are thrilled to see the positive impact the Tundra continues to have on the truck segment and are honored that TAWA recognized the Toyota Tundra as the Truck of Texas for a second time.”

This year’s Texas Truck Rodeo brought together 37 journalists to evaluate automakers’ latest trucks and SUVs on an off-road course at Eagles Canyon Raceway in Decatur, Texas. Vehicles from the world’s top manufacturers were evaluated on interior, exterior, value, performance, and personal appeal.

Hennessey’s 700hp VelociRaptoR 6×6 Thunders into Production

Hennessey Performance has announced full production for its VelociRaptoR 6×6 super-truck, a Ford F-150 Raptor R that is transformed into a nearly unstoppable 6×6. 

The VelociRaptoR 6×6 boasts an extended boxed frame and a second, fully functional, locking rear axle—improving tractive grip by more than 50%. The suspension features Live Valve Fox dampers, the most advanced off-road suspension available on a production vehicle. A 3-inch lift raises the body in preparation for Hennessey’s custom 20-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 37-inch off-road tires. Lastly, an expansive 8-foot-long load bed replaces the stock 5.5-foot bed; cargo capacity is improved by more than 45%.

Complementing the mechanical upgrades are new front and rear bumpers, LED off-road lights, and Hennessey VelociRaptoR badging. The resulting VelociRaptoR 6×6 is a beastly machine nearly 27 feet long, roughly 7 feet tall, and 7 feet wide—with a curb weight of approximately 6,500 pounds.

The burly Ford Raptor R engine, a supercharged 5.2-liter V-8, is untouched. It boasts a formidable 700 bhp at 6,650 rpm and 640 lb-ft torque at 4,250 rpm. That’s enough power to ensure that the commanding VelociRaptoR 6×6 dominates both on- and off-road.

Hennessey has made a range of exclusive and competent 6×6 trucks, including the RAM-based MAMMOTH 6×6 TRX and Chevrolet-based GOLIATH 6×6 Silverado. For customers seeking a more practical truck, Hennessey also offers a suite of performance and off-road-oriented upgrades for the regular Ford Raptor 4×4. Hennessey has been the leader and industry benchmark for Ford Raptor upgrades since the truck was first introduced back in 2009.

Customers can opt to source a new Ford Raptor R to send to Hennessey for conversion, or they can purchase a turn-key vehicle from Hennessey directly. Hennessey prides itself on the
quality of its vehicles and workmanship; as such, the VelociRaptoR 6×6 benefits from a comprehensive three-year/36,000-mile warranty. The new Hennessey VelociRaptoR 6×6 may be ordered now through authorized Ford retailers, or directly with Hennessey by calling 979-885-1300 or visiting HennesseyPerformance.com.

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