Honda Confirms the Third-Generation Ridgeline: Good News for Outdoor Enthusiasts in the Lanaudière Region

After several months of rumors, Honda has officially confirmed the development of the third-generation Ridgeline midsize pickup. For Lanaudière residents accustomed to towing a boat to one of the region's many lakes or hauling gear to the cottage, this announcement warrants a closer look.

Although the launch is still a few years away, several details are already starting to emerge regarding the style, mechanics, and timeline of this upcoming Ridgeline.

A Planned Production Pause

To prepare for the new model's arrival, Honda plans to temporarily pause manufacturing of the current Ridgeline later in 2026. This factory-planned pause is expected to last about eighteen months. This type of shutdown is common during a major generational transition to allow time to re-tool facilities for the new platform.

A Rugged Shift in Styling

According to preliminary information shared by the manufacturer, the third generation will adopt a noticeably squarer and more rugged aesthetic than that of the current model. The front-end styling is expected to draw heavy inspiration from the all-new Honda Passport SUV, giving the Ridgeline a bolder presence on the road—a look that should appeal to local residents who appreciate tough utility vehicles.

However, the Ridgeline is expected to retain its distinctive unibody construction as well as its convenient In-Bed Trunk.

What the Unibody Design Continues to Offer

Since its launch, the Ridgeline has stood out from traditional midsize pickups thanks to its unibody structure—similar to the brand's SUVs—rather than a ladder frame. This approach generally provides a more comfortable ride on the road and more predictable handling, an appreciated asset for long trips on Highway 25 or less maintained country roads. Maintaining this architecture for the third generation suggests Honda aims to preserve what sets the Ridgeline apart from the rest of the segment.

In any case, the Ridgeline offers—and will certainly continue to offer—a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, which is plenty for the vast majority of needs.

Toward a Hybrid Powertrain

On the mechanical front, reports indicate that this production pause will notably serve to adapt the vehicle to upcoming emissions standards. The next Ridgeline would thus drop its current V6 engine in favor of a new-generation hybrid system developed by Honda, presented as more powerful and less costly to produce than previous systems. For local owners who log high annual mileage, a hybrid powertrain could represent noticeable fuel savings.

This direction aligns with Honda's broader electrification strategy, which aims to integrate hybrid powertrains into a growing share of its Canadian lineup over the coming years—a trend already well established with the CR-V Hybrid and Accord Hybrid.

For local owners who use their truck as much for work as for leisure, a hybrid powertrain could also mean quieter operation during trips through residential areas, while preserving the capacity needed to tow Lanaudière's typical outdoor gear.

A Launch Planned Within Two Years

According to available information, the new Ridgeline is expected on the market within two years, targeting the 2028 or 2029 model year. Production will remain exclusive to the Lincoln plant in Alabama, as has been the case for previous generations of the model.

As development of the vehicle continues, several technical details—including precise horsepower and torque figures in pound-feet—have not yet been officially confirmed by Honda. These details will be specified closer to the launch date.

A Vehicle Already Popular for Outdoor Activities

The current Ridgeline has already won over part of the Lanaudière clientele thanks to its versatile bed space and towing capacity tailored to regional needs, whether pulling a snowmobile trailer in the winter or a boat in the summer. The arrival of a third generation—styled to look tougher and potentially more economical through hybridization—could strengthen this appeal among local outdoor enthusiasts.

Stay Tuned with Lallier Honda 640

For current Ridgeline owners or local buyers considering a midsize pickup for their outdoor projects, this transition period can also be a good opportunity to consider models currently in stock before the planned production shutdown later in 2026. Our team at Lallier Honda 640 is closely following developments surrounding this launch and can keep you updated as new details are confirmed.

Contact Lallier Honda 640 in Lachenaie to discuss currently available Ridgelines or to be notified as soon as new information on the third generation is released.