Mumbai: The 2009 Honda Ridgeline highlight more than 50 significant upgrades and new features. A trailer hitch comes as standard on every model. Salient features include Bluetooth HandsFreeLink,a multi-information display, and a Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with voice recognition  system. The Ridgeline continues to be the only pickup truck available with a spacious In-Bed Trunk that provides hidden, dry and secure storage capable of swallowing luggage, tool boxes and coolers.

Front and rear styling updates combine to create a more-chiseled overall appearance with revisions to the grille, bumpers, and headlight and taillight color combinations. Inside, styling updates include revised three-dimensional-style metres, a new steering wheel design, and enhanced controls, buttons and displays for the air conditioning, audio, cruise control and headlights.

New technology-friendly features include the addition of a 115-volt power outlet on the Ridgeline RTL, MP3/auxiliary input jack on the Ridgeline RTS and RTL, and all audio systems with MP3/WMA compatibility. Safety features include active front seat head restraints and daytime running lights.

The four-door, five-passenger Ridgeline is built on a closed-box, unit-body frame that combines the strength characteristics of a ladder frame with the packaging and handling advantages of a unit-body design. the new Ridgelines are powered by a 250-horsepower, 3.5-litre VTEC V-6 engine. A 5-speed electronically-controlled automatic transmission and a variable torque management 4-wheel drive system (VTM-4) are standard.

The EPA rates city/highway/combined fuel economy at 15/20/17. A fully-independent suspension with MacPherson struts in the front and a multi-link suspension design in the rear contribute to a smooth ride and responsive handling. Standard equipment for towing includes an integrated tow hitch, transmission and oil coolers, heavy duty brakes, dual radiator fans and a wiring harness for a 7-pin trailer hook up (pre-wiring only on RT). Maximum recommended tow capacity is 5,000 pounds.

The all-aluminum, 60-degree, SOHC 3.5-litre VTEC engine produces 250-horsepower at 5700 rpm and 247 lb-ft. of torque at 4300 rpm. The Ridgeline's variable valve timing enhances low rpm torque while extending high rpm horsepower for a broad, confidence-inspiring power band. For 2009, the engine produces three more horsepower and a torque curve that is up to 10 lb-ft. broader at RPMs as low as 2500 - while maintaining the same EPA-rated fuel economy as the 2008 model.

The majority of the additional power is achieved through a new camshaft profile tuned for maximum torque, larger intake valves and a revised dual-stage intake manifold capable of a higher flow rate (now made from ultra-lightweight magnesium instead of aluminum).

Honda's approach to exterior styling on the Ridgeline incorporates a machined billet architecture styling approach for a solid, strong one-piece appearance. No separation between the bed and the cab exists. Designed to appear modern and athletic, the Ridgeline incorporates short front and rear overhangs with integrated bumpers, a large and dominating grille connected to a long and expansive hood, large door handles, and large truck-style side mirrors for good rear vision while towing. The windshield wipers have a heated wiper zone that enhance wiper performance and minimise ice scraping in cold, winter driving conditions.

The interior takes advantage of the Ridgeline's superior unit-body packaging efficiency to deliver full-size interior space dimensions while maintaining a garage-friendly, mid-size exterior footprint. The driving position provides ergonomically comfortable access to large and easy-to-use controls - the majority of which become more tactile and user-friendly for 2009.

The large multi-function console features a sliding armrest and sliding lower tray -  each with a hidden storage area. Other console storage areas accommodate items both large and small like mobile phones, beverages, compact discs and portable digital music players.

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