Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2019 Honda Ridgeline SL
The 2019 Honda Ridgeline SL is a truck that earns a Carivo score of 7.5/10 — rated Recommended. Its strongest dimension is Reliability at 8.6/10, while Performance at 6.7/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. Reliability stands out at 8.6/10. The Ridgeline SL nameplate has earned that score through its track record and a comparatively clean recall sheet. Safety lands at 8.2/10 — solid, though some rivals offer more advanced driver-assist features as standard. Confirm official results for your trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Performance at 6.7/10 is a genuine liability and a score that should factor heavily into any buying decision. The powertrain and chassis dynamics trail class rivals by a meaningful margin — don't overlook it. Technology scores 6.9/10 — the infotainment and driver-assist features feel dated against current-generation rivals. This is worth weighing if you prioritize connected features or modern safety tech.
Priced from $44,310–$59,382, 17 MPG, seating 5, the Honda Ridgeline SL sits in the mid-market bracket of the truck segment. The value score of 6.8/10 is a red flag — comparable alternatives offer meaningfully more for the same outlay. Shop the segment before deciding. At 7 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Verdict: Nothing about the 2019 Honda Ridgeline SL will scare a sensible buyer off. Keep an eye on technology and value and performance if those matter to you; otherwise it does what a good truck should — quietly and competently.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Trucks
The 2019 Honda Ridgeline SL ranks #186 of 515 trucks in the Carivo database — better than 64% of the segment. Its 7.5/10 overall score is 0.1 points above the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $44,310 starting price is about 26% above the segment's median of $35,138.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Ridgeline SL Year Should You Buy?
Across the Ridgeline SL model years we've scored, the 2019 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Proven long-term reliability — lower unplanned repair costs than class average
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
Tech suite is functional but lags behind segment-best options; some features cost extra
Fuel economy at 17 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
Common Questions — 2019 Honda Ridgeline SL
Is the 2019 Honda Ridgeline SL reliable?
We rate the 2019 Honda Ridgeline SL's reliability 8.6/10 — one of the stronger records in its class.
Is the 2019 Honda Ridgeline SL worth buying?
It scores 7.5/10 overall, ranking #186 of 515 trucks in our database (better than 64% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2019 Honda Ridgeline SL cost?
The 2019 Honda Ridgeline SL starts at $44,310 and ranges up to $59,382 across trims (MSRP when new). At 17 MPG, expect roughly $3,088/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Ridgeline SL years should you avoid?
Based on our year-by-year scoring, the weakest Ridgeline SL years we've rated are 2018 (7.4/10) — each at least half a point below the nameplate's best (7.9/10). See the full year table above before deciding.
Owner Essentials — Honda Ridgeline SL
Practical extras owners actually buy. These are Amazon search links — as an Amazon Associate, Carivo earns from qualifying purchases at no cost to you.
Once a month: which brands moved up or down our reliability rankings, new recalls worth knowing, and the smartest-money model years. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
You're in — first report lands next month.
More Honda Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Honda models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
Representative photo — may show another model year