Honda Ridgeline Faces Production Pause Ahead of Hybrid Refresh

Reports indicate that the Honda Ridgeline midsize pickup truck is slated for an 18-month production halt, expected to begin in the fourth quarter of 2026. This temporary stop is reportedly tied to emissions compliance issues, paving the way for a significant powertrain update.

The Reason Behind the Pause

The core issue appears to be the current 3.5-liter V-6 engine's difficulty in meeting stricter future emissions regulations. While federal rules have seen adjustments, several manufacturers, including Honda, are still subject to more demanding standards set by states like California. These state-level rules often drive engineering decisions for vehicles sold nationwide, and the Ridgeline's current engine may not meet these upcoming targets.

A Look at the Current Ridgeline

The present-day Honda Ridgeline stands out for its more car-like construction, but its towing limit trails key midsize pickup rivals.

Ridgeline vs. Key Rivals

Model	Construction / Layout	Maximum Towing
Honda Ridgeline	Unibody, AWD, 3.5-liter V-6	5,000 pounds
Ford Ranger	Traditional pickup rival	7,500 pounds
Chevrolet Colorado	Traditional pickup rival	7,700 pounds
Toyota Tacoma	Traditional pickup rival	6,500 pounds

What's Next for the Ridgeline

The production pause is expected to conclude around the third quarter of 2028, coinciding with the launch of a heavily refreshed model. The main upgrade is anticipated to be the introduction of Honda’s new hybrid V-6 engine. A hybrid system pairs a gasoline engine with an electric motor. This technology is designed to significantly improve fuel efficiency and lower emissions. It can also deliver an instant boost in power and torque, which could help the Ridgeline close the performance and towing gap with its competitors.

18 months

The reported shutdown would bridge the gap between a late-2026 halt and a refreshed Ridgeline expected in 2028.

While Honda has officially stated the report is speculation, the company affirmed that the Ridgeline will “continue to play an important role” in its vehicle lineup. This strategic pause aligns with a wider industry shift toward hybrid and electric powertrains to meet both regulatory demands and evolving market expectations.