2024 Honda Ridgeline vs 2023 GMC Sierra 1500

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 received a styling update in 2022, which included a wider, more imposing grille and updated headlights. While these changes were subtle, they maintained the truck's already sharp appearance. The interior, however, saw a significant transformation, moving towards a more complex and SUV-like cabin experience. The new dash featured a large screen, moving away from the simpler layout of its predecessor. This change might have been seen as unnecessarily complicated for those who preferred a straightforward truck setup. The base Pro trim retained the simpler infotainment system, while higher trims like the Denali Ultimate offered a more luxurious and feature-rich interior.

The 2024 Honda Ridgeline, still in its second generation, received styling updates that gave it a more commanding presence. The blunt nose, tall hood, and new tailgate lettering helped it blend in better with traditional trucks. The TrailSport trim added all-terrain tires for a tougher look. Inside, a new center console design with a wide armrest and a 7-inch digital instrumentation panel improved the cabin's functionality and appearance. The updated 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, now standard across all trims, offered better graphics and simplified menus, enhancing the overall user experience.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 offered four powertrain options. The base model came with a 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque. The optional 3.0-liter Duramax turbocharged inline-six diesel engine delivered 305 hp and 495 lb-ft of torque. Two gas V8 options were also available: a 5.3-liter V8 with 355 hp and 383 lb-ft, and a 6.2-liter V8 with 420 hp and 460 lb-ft. The gas four-cylinder engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while all other engines came with a 10-speed automatic. The Sierra's towing capacity reached up to 13,200 pounds with the diesel engine and RWD, and its maximum payload capacity was 2,240 pounds with the turbo-four and 5.3-liter V8 engines. The Sierra excelled in both on-road comfort and off-road capability, particularly in the AT4 and AT4X trims.

The 2024 Honda Ridgeline featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and Honda’s i-VTM4 AWD system. The Ridgeline's towing capacity was 5,000 pounds, and its maximum payload capacity was 1,583 pounds in the Sport trim. Off-road performance was limited by shallow approach, breakover, and departure angles, and a ground clearance of just over 7.6 inches. However, the Ridgeline excelled on-road with its smooth powertrain, quick acceleration, and responsive handling. The TrailSport trim's off-road suspension felt firmer on pavement, and the all-terrain tires emitted a faint whir at speed. The automatic transmission had a tendency to roll when parked, requiring careful use of the parking brake.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 offered various cab and bed configurations, including regular, double, and crew cabs with different bed lengths. Our test model, a crew cab with a short bed, provided ample cabin space and storage options. The MultiPro tailgate offered multiple configurations, including a bed step-up and a fold-out workstation. Bed steps cut into the rear bumper provided easy access to the bed without moving parts.

The 2024 Honda Ridgeline prioritized comfort and practicality. It was easy to get in and out of, and the seats were supportive and comfortable. The TrailSport trim featured perforated leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The rear seats offered adequate legroom and comfort, with a triple-zone climate control system and rear air conditioning vents. The Ridgeline's interior had numerous storage options, and the rear seat cushion could be flipped up for additional cargo space. The 33.9 cubic-foot cargo bed included a weatherproof and locking trunk with 7.3 cubic feet of space, perfect for tailgate parties or wet gear.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 came standard with a 7-inch touchscreen and a carryover infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims received a 13.4-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Google-connected apps, and trailering status apps. The Denali Ultimate trim included a wireless charging pad, USB-A and USB-C ports, and a wall-style power outlet. A 12.3-inch fully digital instrument panel and a head-up display were also available on higher trims.

The 2024 Honda Ridgeline featured a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with a volume knob, tuning buttons, and steering wheel controls. The system had a faster processor and improved graphics, with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and smartphone charging. The Black Edition trim offered HD Radio, extra USB ports, and an eight-speaker premium sound system. The 7-inch digital display in the instrument cluster provided essential information and was easy to use.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 came standard with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and GM’s Teen Driver system. Higher trims offered additional features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, front and rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, a surround-view camera system, and GM’s Super Cruise driver assist system. The rear headrests could be flipped down for better visibility, and the rearview camera mirror provided a clear view at night.

The 2024 Honda Ridgeline Sport added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert as standard features. The Honda Sensing suite included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, lane-centering assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high-beam headlights. The ADAS performed adequately but could be intrusive in moderate traffic. The Ridgeline received an Acceptable rating in the IIHS small overlap frontal-impact test and a Marginal rating for headlights. The NHTSA awarded the Ridgeline five-star ratings in most categories, except for a four-star rating in rollover resistance.