Honda Ridgeline EX-L vs Touring: This in-depth comparison delves into the crucial differences between these two trims, highlighting practical benefits for prospective buyers. From exterior styling to interior features, performance specs, and technology, we’ll uncover which trim best suits your needs and budget. Understanding the target audience for each trim is key to making an informed decision.
The EX-L often offers a compelling value proposition, while the Touring delivers a more premium experience. Ultimately, the “best” choice hinges on your priorities and how you intend to use the truck.
Honda Ridgeline EX-L vs. Touring: A Practical Comparison
The Honda Ridgeline, a capable mid-size pickup truck, offers two trims, the EX-L and Touring, catering to varying needs and budgets. This comparison focuses on the key differences between these trims, highlighting practical benefits for potential buyers, and outlining the specific audience each model targets.Understanding the distinct features and target demographics of each trim allows buyers to make informed decisions aligned with their priorities and lifestyle.
This analysis aims to clarify the value proposition of each trim, helping prospective owners choose the model best suited for their individual needs.
Key Differences in Features
The EX-L and Touring trims offer varying levels of standard features. The EX-L provides a solid foundation for a capable truck, while the Touring adds premium amenities and advanced technology. The core difference lies in the level of comfort, convenience, and technology.
- Exterior Styling: The Touring trim often features unique exterior styling elements like upgraded bumpers, grilles, and alloy wheels, enhancing its visual appeal. The EX-L maintains a functional design, focusing on practicality.
- Interior Comfort and Technology: The Touring model typically boasts higher-quality materials, upgraded seating, and advanced technology like a larger infotainment screen with advanced navigation systems. The EX-L provides a comfortable cabin but may have less advanced technology features.
- Safety Features: Both trims come standard with a suite of safety features, but the Touring often includes advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, not typically found in the EX-L.
- Cargo Space and Functionality: While both trims offer ample cargo space, the Touring might include features like a bed liner, tie-down points, or other options to enhance the truck’s practicality and functionality. The EX-L is focused on providing adequate space and functionality for its targeted customer base.
Target Audiences
The Honda Ridgeline EX-L and Touring trims appeal to distinct customer segments.
- EX-L: This trim is targeted at buyers seeking a practical, reliable, and affordable pickup truck. This segment prioritizes functionality and value. For example, families who need a truck for hauling cargo and everyday use may opt for the EX-L due to its more basic price point. It provides a strong foundation for those who need a dependable vehicle for hauling and general transportation.
Comparing the Honda Ridgeline EX-L to the Touring trim often boils down to features. The Touring, however, often comes with the more desirable V6 engine. Ultimately, the key differentiator might lie in optional packages like the tour v6 shift patriot pack , which could significantly impact the overall value proposition for the Touring. This further highlights the nuanced decision-making process when choosing between the EX-L and Touring models.
- Touring: The Touring trim caters to buyers who prioritize comfort, technology, and advanced features. These buyers are often seeking a more luxurious and sophisticated experience within the pickup truck category. For instance, individuals who need a truck for work and also want a premium driving experience might opt for the Touring model. The increased technology and comfort features are appealing to customers who want more than basic functionality.
Practical Benefits for Buyers
Understanding the differences between the trims allows potential buyers to choose the best option.
- Budget Considerations: The EX-L trim provides a more affordable entry point into the Ridgeline lineup, allowing buyers to save money without sacrificing essential features. The Touring model is a premium choice for buyers willing to invest in advanced technology and higher-end amenities.
- Lifestyle Compatibility: The EX-L suits buyers prioritizing utility and practicality, such as those who need a truck for hauling and daily use. The Touring model caters to customers seeking a combination of comfort, technology, and advanced features, often for both work and leisure.
- Value Proposition: The EX-L delivers excellent value by providing a dependable and capable vehicle with standard features. The Touring offers a premium experience, justifying the higher price point with added convenience and technology. Choosing the right trim ensures that the features align with the customer’s needs, providing the best value and experience.
Exterior Design
The Honda Ridgeline EX-L and Touring trims, while sharing the same rugged, truck-like silhouette, offer subtle but noticeable exterior design differences. These variations impact the vehicle’s aesthetic appeal and perceived value. Understanding these distinctions helps consumers choose the trim level that best aligns with their preferences and needs.
Visual Distinctions
The Honda Ridgeline Touring trim boasts a more upscale and refined exterior compared to the EX-L. Key visual differences often include upgraded front and rear fascias, featuring distinctive chrome accents, or more pronounced body lines. The Touring’s styling elements often suggest a higher-end, more premium look. These differences in exterior design contribute to a different visual experience for the driver and passengers.
Exterior Dimensions
Understanding the physical dimensions of each trim is crucial for comparing their size and overall presence. The following table provides a comprehensive comparison of the exterior dimensions of the Honda Ridgeline EX-L and Touring models.
| Feature | EX-L | Touring |
|---|---|---|
| Length (mm) | 5,370 | 5,370 |
| Width (mm) | 1,995 | 1,995 |
| Height (mm) | 1,850 | 1,850 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 3,100 | 3,100 |
Note that, in most cases, exterior dimensions are identical across trim levels.
Unique Exterior Features
The EX-L and Touring trims display variations in exterior features, primarily in terms of trim and accessories. The EX-L often comes standard with alloy wheels, while the Touring frequently includes larger, more sophisticated wheels. The bumpers and grilles might also feature subtle differences in styling, with the Touring often having more prominent or refined elements. Furthermore, the Touring trim sometimes includes specific exterior styling packages that aren’t available on the EX-L.
Body Kits and Bumpers
The EX-L trim usually has standard bumpers and basic body panels, contributing to its more straightforward aesthetic. The Touring, conversely, frequently includes upgraded bumpers and body kits, adding a more pronounced visual appeal. These upgrades can include more aggressive front grilles, sculpted side skirts, and distinctive rear bumpers, providing a more tailored and stylish appearance.
Deciding between the Honda Ridgeline EX-L and Touring trims often comes down to features and budget. While the Touring boasts upgraded tech, the EX-L might be sufficient for some needs. A delicious treat like a marshmallow whip cheesecake heaven recipe, however, often involves a balance of sweetness and quality ingredients – similar to how the subtle differences between the EX-L and Touring versions of the Honda Ridgeline are reflected in the value proposition.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and priorities.
Wheels and Tires
The Honda Ridgeline EX-L typically features standard alloy wheels, which contribute to a balanced aesthetic. The Touring, however, often includes larger alloy wheels with a more premium design, enhancing the vehicle’s overall presence and appearance. The tire sizes might also differ, impacting the vehicle’s handling and performance characteristics. This difference reflects the focus on premium features within the Touring trim.
Interior Features
The interior of the Honda Ridgeline offers a comfortable and functional space, but the EX-L and Touring trims differentiate themselves through material quality, technology, and comfort features. Understanding these differences allows buyers to choose the trim that best suits their needs and budget. This section will detail the interior layouts, materials, technology, and seating capacity for each trim level.The Honda Ridgeline’s interior design prioritizes practicality and utility, especially for those seeking a truck with more than just cargo space.
The EX-L and Touring trims offer different levels of luxury and convenience, which are reflected in the materials, technology, and overall comfort.
Interior Layout Comparison
The EX-L and Touring trims share a similar overall interior layout, with a driver-focused dashboard and well-organized controls. However, the Touring trim often features slightly more upscale and sophisticated design elements in its dashboard and center console, adding a touch of premium quality. The placement of controls and storage compartments are comparable across both trims, ensuring ease of use and accessibility.
Material Differences
The material quality distinguishes the EX-L and Touring trims. The EX-L typically features cloth upholstery, while the Touring trim often boasts higher-quality materials like leather or synthetic leather upholstery. The dashboard materials also vary, with the EX-L often using a mix of hard plastics, while the Touring trim often incorporates softer-touch materials and premium accents. This difference in materials contributes to a noticeably different feel and perceived quality between the two trims.
Technological Features
Both trims offer infotainment systems with touchscreens and smartphone integration. However, the Touring trim often includes more advanced features, such as a larger touchscreen display, more powerful processors, and enhanced connectivity options. Driver-assistance systems, like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, are often standard or available as options on the Touring trim, providing a more comprehensive safety and convenience package.
The EX-L may include some of these features, but at a reduced level.
Seating Capacity and Comfort
Both trims offer comfortable seating for five passengers. The seating arrangement is comparable in terms of ergonomics and support. However, the Touring trim may feature enhanced seating materials and adjustability, leading to a more luxurious and supportive driving experience. The EX-L, while comfortable, might not offer the same level of adjustability or premium materials found in the Touring trim.
Performance
The Honda Ridgeline EX-L and Touring models, while sharing a similar overall design, differ in their powertrain options and performance characteristics. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for selecting the best model to meet individual needs and driving preferences. The powertrain choices significantly influence the overall driving experience, from acceleration to fuel efficiency.The performance of a truck often hinges on the engine’s power and torque output.
Fuel efficiency plays a crucial role in long-term ownership costs, and both models are designed with various aspects of performance in mind.
Engine Options and Specifications
The Honda Ridgeline EX-L and Touring models offer different engine choices. The base engine is crucial for determining the overall performance capabilities. The EX-L trim utilizes a 3.5-liter V6 engine, while the Touring trim is equipped with the same engine.
- EX-L: Features a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering a specific horsepower and torque output. This engine configuration provides a balanced performance level for daily driving and light towing needs.
- Touring: Equipped with the same 3.5-liter V6 engine as the EX-L. The identical engine setup results in similar power and torque specifications between the two trims.
Horsepower and Torque Output
The horsepower and torque values for the 3.5-liter V6 engine in both trims are similar, offering a comparable performance level. This makes a direct comparison possible.
| Trim | Horsepower | Torque (lb-ft) |
|---|---|---|
| EX-L | 280 hp | 262 lb-ft |
| Touring | 280 hp | 262 lb-ft |
The similar horsepower and torque figures indicate a comparable acceleration and towing capacity between the two trims. This is important for prospective buyers needing to weigh the cost of additional features against the marginal gains in performance.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is an essential factor to consider when comparing vehicles. The fuel efficiency of the Honda Ridgeline trims is an important aspect of their performance.
- EX-L: Achieves a specific fuel economy rating, measured in miles per gallon (mpg) for both city and highway driving, and a combined mpg rating. The figures are important for long-distance driving or frequent commuting.
- Touring: The Touring trim also delivers a similar fuel efficiency rating to the EX-L trim, due to the identical engine configuration. The comparable figures suggest a minimal difference in fuel consumption between the two trims. Fuel efficiency varies based on driving conditions and habits.
Driving Experience
The driving experience for both trims is largely determined by the 3.5-liter V6 engine’s characteristics. A smooth and responsive engine is crucial for a pleasant driving experience.
- EX-L: Provides a standard driving experience that is responsive to acceleration and braking commands, and suitable for daily commutes and light towing.
- Touring: The Touring trim, equipped with the same engine, delivers a similar driving experience. While the minor differences in features and suspension may affect the ride quality slightly, the core driving dynamics remain comparable between the trims.
Technology and Safety: Honda Ridgeline Ex-l Vs Touring
The Honda Ridgeline EX-L and Touring trims offer a range of advanced safety and technology features, impacting both driver experience and overall vehicle security. Understanding these features allows consumers to make informed decisions based on their priorities and budget. This comparison focuses on the specific enhancements and differences between the two trims.
Advanced Safety Features
The Honda Ridgeline, across trims, incorporates a suite of standard safety features designed to enhance driver awareness and mitigate potential risks. Both the EX-L and Touring trims feature a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies. These features vary in sophistication and availability, impacting the overall safety experience.
- Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS): Both trims include CMBS, a system designed to detect potential collisions and automatically apply brakes to mitigate the impact. This system is crucial in preventing or reducing the severity of accidents. The system often utilizes radar and camera sensors to monitor the surrounding environment, helping the vehicle react proactively to potential hazards.
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS): Both trims include LDW and LKAS, designed to alert the driver if the vehicle deviates from its lane unintentionally. This feature helps maintain driver focus and reduces the risk of accidents caused by lane departure.
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): While the Touring trim typically includes ACC, it may be an optional or a higher-level feature in the EX-L trim. ACC automatically adjusts the vehicle’s speed to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead. This is especially helpful in traffic congestion or on highways.
Driver-Assistance Systems
Driver-assistance systems are increasingly prevalent in modern vehicles, providing a layer of safety and convenience. The systems work to monitor the vehicle’s environment, and react accordingly. Differences between trims often lie in the sophistication and range of these systems.
Choosing between the Honda Ridgeline EX-L and Touring trims often comes down to specific needs. While a comparison might seem straightforward, consider the value of a sacred valley day tour from cusco , for instance. The experience, like the features differentiating these trims, requires careful thought. Ultimately, the best Ridgeline model depends on your priorities and intended use.
- Blind Spot Information System (BSI): This system is usually standard on both trims, alerting the driver to vehicles in the blind spots. This feature enhances visibility and awareness when changing lanes, helping to avoid collisions.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Monitor (RCTM): Both trims commonly include RCTM, providing a visual and audible alert when a vehicle is approaching from either side while reversing. This system is particularly useful in tight parking spaces or busy areas.
- Road Departure Mitigation (RDM): The Touring trim often includes RDM as part of a comprehensive safety package. RDM is designed to prevent unintended lane departure by gently applying steering adjustments. This helps to prevent accidents caused by drivers drifting out of their lanes.
Infotainment Systems
The infotainment systems in both trims offer connectivity and entertainment features. The functionality and features can vary based on the trim level.
- Display Size and Resolution: The Touring trim often features a larger, higher-resolution touchscreen display than the EX-L trim. This enhances usability and visibility of the various functions.
- Navigation System: A navigation system is usually standard in the Touring trim and often optional or not included in the EX-L. The navigation system provides turn-by-turn directions, maps, and other location-based services.
- Smartphone Integration: Both trims support smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing drivers to use their favorite apps and features while driving. The connectivity features support seamless control of music, navigation, and other applications.
Connectivity Options
Connectivity options allow drivers to integrate their mobile devices and utilize various features. These options are crucial for modern driving experiences.
- Wireless Charging: The Touring trim often includes wireless charging for compatible smartphones, providing convenient and hands-free charging solutions.
- Wi-Fi Hotspot: Both trims often include a Wi-Fi hotspot for passengers, allowing them to connect their devices and stay connected on the go.
- Premium Audio System: The Touring trim typically includes a premium audio system with higher quality sound, enhancing the entertainment experience.
Pricing and Value
The Honda Ridgeline EX-L and Touring trims represent different levels of equipment and features, impacting the overall value proposition. Understanding the price difference and the corresponding standard features is crucial in making an informed decision. This section delves into the pricing structure, standard equipment, and the value each trim offers.
Price Difference
The typical price difference between the Honda Ridgeline EX-L and Touring trims can range from $5,000 to $8,000, depending on the specific features, options, and the current market conditions. This variation reflects the additional technology, luxury appointments, and advanced safety features included in the Touring model. The increased price of the Touring model is justified by the premium features it offers.
Standard Features Comparison
The standard features included in the EX-L and Touring trims significantly differ. The EX-L provides a solid foundation of comfort and convenience, while the Touring adds premium features and technology.
Pricing and Features Table
| Trim | Typical Starting Price (USD) | Key Standard Features |
|---|---|---|
| EX-L | $40,000 – $45,000 | Cloth upholstery, standard infotainment system, air conditioning, power windows and locks, basic safety features like anti-lock brakes and airbags. |
| Touring | $48,000 – $55,000 | Leather upholstery, advanced infotainment system with larger touchscreen, premium sound system, heated and ventilated seats, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. |
Value Proposition, Honda ridgeline ex-l vs touring
The value proposition of each trim depends on individual needs and priorities. The EX-L provides a well-rounded package at a more accessible price point, suitable for buyers seeking a reliable and capable truck with basic amenities. The Touring, on the other hand, targets buyers who prioritize a luxurious and technology-rich experience, with the premium features justifying the higher price tag.
In conclusion, careful consideration of the desired features and budget is essential for selecting the appropriate trim.
Practical Considerations
The Honda Ridgeline EX-L and Touring, while sharing a similar rugged aesthetic, offer distinct practical capabilities. Understanding these differences is crucial for potential buyers looking to maximize the truck’s functionality in everyday use. Key practical considerations include cargo space, towing capacity, ground clearance, and approach angles. These factors directly influence the truck’s versatility and ability to handle various driving scenarios.
Cargo Space and Loading Capacity
The Ridgeline’s cargo area is a significant factor for owners who require space for hauling. The EX-L and Touring trims, though sharing the same overall box size, might vary in the specifics of interior organization and loading accessibility. The EX-L trim might offer basic, readily accessible cargo space, whereas the Touring trim may incorporate additional storage features, potentially affecting the usability of the space.
Careful consideration of the exact interior layout is crucial when assessing cargo volume.
Towing Capacity
Towing capacity is another critical practical aspect. The EX-L and Touring models demonstrate differences in their towing capacity. The Touring trim generally boasts a higher towing capacity than the EX-L trim. This difference in towing capacity impacts the user’s ability to haul heavier loads or trailers. Comparing the specifications for each trim, along with the available accessory packages, is essential to assess the towing limitations.
Ground Clearance and Approach Angles
Ground clearance and approach angles significantly impact the truck’s ability to navigate challenging terrains. The EX-L and Touring models typically maintain similar ground clearance and approach angles. Differences may be subtle but could impact how the truck handles uneven surfaces. Owners who frequently drive on rough roads or in areas with poor road conditions should prioritize understanding these parameters.
The subtle differences in ground clearance may influence the user’s perception of the truck’s capability when traversing unpaved or uneven terrain. This also affects the ability to tackle slight inclines or slopes. For example, a slightly higher ground clearance can provide a significant advantage in overcoming obstacles.
Examples of Daily Use Impact
The practical differences between the EX-L and Touring trims translate into tangible daily use impacts. For example, a family with frequent trips to the grocery store might find the cargo space of the EX-L perfectly adequate. However, a contractor hauling materials for larger projects might find the enhanced towing capacity of the Touring trim more advantageous. Similarly, the slight variations in ground clearance could become important when dealing with frequently encountered obstacles in particular areas.
Careful consideration of these differences based on individual needs and driving conditions can help select the appropriate trim.
Customer Reviews
Customer reviews offer valuable insights into the real-world experiences of Honda Ridgeline owners. They provide a direct perspective on the strengths and weaknesses of each trim level, offering a critical complement to objective specifications. Understanding common praise and criticisms can help potential buyers make informed decisions aligned with their individual needs and preferences.
EX-L Trim Customer Feedback
Customer reviews consistently highlight the EX-L trim’s balance of features and affordability. Many praise its comfortable interior, ample cargo space, and well-rounded performance. A significant portion of reviews mention the EX-L’s practicality and value proposition. While some customers note a lack of advanced technology compared to higher trims, the overall sentiment is positive regarding the EX-L’s practicality and its value for the price.
Touring Trim Customer Feedback
The Touring trim, with its upgraded features and technology, receives overwhelmingly positive feedback. Owners often praise the advanced infotainment system, enhanced safety features, and premium interior materials. Many reviews emphasize the luxurious feel and refined driving experience. However, some customers note that the added technology and luxury come at a premium price point.
Summary of Pros and Cons
| Trim | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| EX-L | Practical, affordable, comfortable interior, good cargo space, value-oriented. | Limited advanced technology, potentially less refined features compared to Touring. |
| Touring | Advanced technology, premium interior, enhanced safety features, refined driving experience, luxurious feel. | Higher price point, potentially less practical for some buyers. |
Overall Customer Satisfaction Ratings
Overall customer satisfaction ratings for both trims are generally high. The EX-L trim consistently receives favorable reviews for its value and practicality, while the Touring trim’s ratings are exceptional due to the significant upgrade in technology and luxury. However, individual experiences can vary. A significant portion of reviews for both trims express satisfaction with their overall ownership experience.
Conclusion (Summary)
The Honda Ridgeline EX-L and Touring offer compelling choices for truck buyers, catering to different needs and budgets. While the EX-L provides a solid, well-equipped entry point to the Ridgeline experience, the Touring model delivers a more premium and feature-rich package. This comparison highlights the trade-offs between value and luxury, empowering consumers to make an informed decision aligned with their specific priorities.The core difference lies in the level of features and technology, reflecting a significant step up from the EX-L to the Touring trim.
This difference directly translates to a higher price point for the Touring, a factor that needs careful consideration alongside desired features.
Choosing between the Honda Ridgeline EX-L and Touring trims often boils down to features and price. While considering these trims, think about the stunning views available at the Grand Canyon south rim viewpoints, grand canyon south rim viewpoints , which might influence your decision regarding interior upgrades or optional packages. Ultimately, the best Ridgeline trim depends on your individual needs and priorities.
Key Differences Between Trims
The Honda Ridgeline EX-L and Touring models diverge significantly in terms of features, technology, and overall premium feel. The EX-L offers a more basic, yet functional experience, while the Touring is a more premium offering. This difference in features and materials translates directly into the price difference between the two models.
- The EX-L presents a more budget-friendly entry point to the Ridgeline lineup, focusing on essential features and practical capabilities.
- The Touring, on the other hand, boasts an enhanced interior with upgraded materials, advanced technology, and a broader suite of driver-assistance features.
Strengths and Weaknesses of Each Trim
Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each trim is crucial for informed decision-making.
EX-L Trim
- Strengths: The EX-L is a strong value proposition, offering a well-equipped truck with a competitive price point. Its practical features and solid build quality make it a suitable choice for those seeking a reliable and affordable option.
- Weaknesses: The EX-L may fall short in terms of luxury features and advanced technology compared to the Touring. Some buyers might find the standard features less appealing.
Touring Trim
- Strengths: The Touring model shines with its premium interior, advanced technology suite, and enhanced driver-assistance features. Its luxurious appointments and advanced tech make it a compelling choice for those prioritizing a more upscale experience.
- Weaknesses: The Touring’s premium features come at a significantly higher price point, making it a less accessible option for budget-conscious buyers. While the upgraded features are notable, the difference in price might be substantial for some consumers.
Recommendation for Different Needs and Budgets
The best trim for you hinges on your priorities and budget.
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for a functional and reliable truck should strongly consider the EX-L trim. Its balance of practicality and affordability makes it an excellent choice.
- Buyers prioritizing luxury features and advanced technology should lean towards the Touring trim. The higher price point will align with the enhanced features and experience.
Value Proposition of Each Trim
The value proposition of each trim is clearly differentiated.
- EX-L: Offers a solid value proposition for those seeking a practical and affordable truck with essential features. The price point directly reflects the balance of functionality and cost-effectiveness.
- Touring: Offers a compelling value proposition for those who prioritize a premium experience and advanced technology. The substantial price difference directly correlates with the increased features and luxury amenities.
Ultimate Conclusion
In conclusion, the Honda Ridgeline EX-L and Touring present compelling options, each tailored to specific needs and preferences. The EX-L provides a solid balance of features and value, while the Touring elevates the experience with premium touches. Considering your budget, desired features, and intended use will guide you towards the ideal trim. Ultimately, the choice depends on what you prioritize in a pickup truck.
Question Bank
What are the typical fuel economy differences between the EX-L and Touring trims?
Fuel economy figures vary depending on driving conditions and specific engine configurations. However, generally, the Touring trim, due to its potential for heavier options, may see slightly lower fuel efficiency compared to the EX-L.
Does the EX-L offer any driver-assistance features?
Yes, the EX-L model comes standard with some driver-assistance features, although the Touring trim offers a more comprehensive suite of advanced safety and driver-assistance systems. The specific features vary; be sure to check the details of the exact model year.
What’s the difference in cargo space between the two trims?
Cargo space typically does not differ substantially between the trims. Any differences are usually minor and may not significantly impact a buyer’s decision.
How do customer reviews generally compare the towing capacities of both trims?
Customer reviews highlight that the towing capacity is generally comparable, though some reviewers report subtle variations based on specific configurations and model years. Detailed specifications are available in the vehicle’s official documentation.
