Jump LinksWhat Does $32,000 Buy These Days?2023 Ridgeline Specs Overview2023 Ridgeline Used Prices (KBB Fair Value)Ridgeline Black Edition Features2023 Honda Ridgeline Towing and Hauling SpecsThe Ridgeline has a Superior RideSome truck enthusiasts insist on only ever buying body-on-frame models with more towing and hauling capacity than they'll ever need. Midsize trucks are more practical for everyday use — especially those like the Toyota Tacoma with legendary reliability and reasonable sizing. However (and it pains us to say this), not everybody needs a Tacoma. Unless you plan on upgrading it with off-road modifications, regularly pulling over 6,000 pounds, and otherwise beating it up, you can most likely get away with a more comfortable, just as dependable midsize truck.That said, a used Honda Ridgeline might give the best bang for your buck. According to Kelley Blue Book, the fair purchase price of a 2023 model is now below that of a new Tacoma SR. It's far more comfortable, has a host of luxury features that the Tacoma only provides at far higher trim levels for way more money, and the Ridgeline can tow and haul plenty for occasional use. It doesn't have the same body-on-frame construction as the Tacoma, but that's exactly why it drives so much better on pavement. Here's why we think some buyers would be better off in a slightly used Ridgeline than a new base model Tacoma.New prices are correct at the time of writing, and exclude destination, options, taxes, and other fees. Used prices fluctuate due to a variety of factors we discuss later in the article. Starting on the Right Foot with Tacoma SR Specs and Pricing What Does $32,000 Buy These Days? ToyotaBuying a base model Tacoma means sacrificing some comfort, but you'll be left with a hearty work truck. The base model is called the SR, which makes 228 horsepower and 243 lb-ft of torque when paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, or 270 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque when equipped with a six-speed manual. Nevertheless, it's not as capable as higher trims, even when compared to the SR5. For example, in its most basic form, it can only tow up to 3,500 pounds. To reach its 6,400-pound limit, buyers must be equipped with four-wheel drive and a manual transmission.It's not totally devoid of features, though. Toyota highlights its 8-inch infotainment screen, which supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Equipping four-wheel drive costs an extra $3,200, but it comes with an automatic, limited-slip differential that can be activated at low speeds when VSC is disengaged. Consider the Following, Instead: 2023 Honda Ridgeline 2023 Ridgeline Specs Overview HondaSure, you could spend $33,000 on a new Tacoma, but then you'd be left with the most basic midsize truck around. For the same amount of money, you could have a used Ridgeline with more power and standard all-wheel drive. It's one of the most perfect trucks for those who don't plan to off-road aggressively or do other heavy-duty truck stuff. We'll get to its towing and payload later, but even those specs are better than the base model Tacoma with its automatic transmission. The 2023 Ridgeline has depreciated just enough to fall under the Tacoma's new price, but you still get all modern amenities. 2023 Ridgeline Used Prices (KBB Fair Value) HondaAccording to Kelley Blue Book, the fair purchase prices of each of the Ridgeline's four 2023 trims are all below the starting price of the new Tacoma SR. Every trim comes with the same 3.5-liter naturally-aspirated V6 that makes 280 hp, and they all have the same towing capacity. Where some people may be disappointed is in its lack of customization: the Ridgeline only had one cab size that seats five people, and one bed length (5.3 feet with the tailgate closed). Choosing a trim level is simply a matter of gaining or losing out on comfort features inside, for the most part. Not Just Any Ridgeline – Try the Black Edition HondaKBB's data shows that all four 2023 Ridgeline trims are now worth less than the Tacoma SR, so why would you choose any trim other than the Black Edition? If you have a budget big enough for the Tacoma SR, one drive in the Ridgeline Black Edition will have you rethinking your priorities. Do you really need a body-on-frame truck that can only tow 3,500 pounds? Or would you rather have a unibody truck with more features and a more comfortable ride for the same price? Ridgeline Black Edition Features HondaThe Black Edition is the most luxurious Ridgeline model you can buy. For the 2023 model year, buyers could get a host of interior and exterior features to make their lives easier. For example, this truck comes with a 10-way power adjustable driver's seat with power lumbar support, heated leather front seats, a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, tri-zone automatic climate control, and more. It also features an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless phone charger, and even a truck-bed audio system. More highlights include: Heated power side mirrors LED exterior lighting Front and rear parking sensors Dual-tip chrome exhaust Power tilting moonroof Red interior ambient lighting Honda sensing and driver assist technology Not Just Comfortable, but Practical HondaSo you know just how luxurious the Ridgeline Black Edition is, but what about the actual truck stuff? Well, this model might be built like a car, but it's surprisingly capable. It uses the same engine as the Honda Pilot three-row SUV and the Acura MDX, both of which are built to carry a lot of weight in passengers. That said, the Ridgeline can carry enough weight to compete with other midsize trucks. 2023 Honda Ridgeline Towing and Hauling Specs Honda Most People Don't Need Body-on-Frame The Ridgeline has a Superior Ride HondaNow for the part that might ruffle some feathers: the Ridgeline is great because it's not body-on-frame. Not only does this truck still perform at a competitive level with other midsize trucks, but it also offers more comfort for occupants than nearly any other. This model has unibody construction with MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension for maximum ride comfort at no cost to performance. It also has a solid front stabilizer bar and a tubular rear bar, in addition to electric power steering that makes driving this truck feel like a car on pavement. Summary: This Honda Saves Money Without Compromise HondaAt the end of the day, buying a truck is a big decision. Part of that decision should be figuring out what you need a truck for. If you plan to use the bed only occasionally for hauling, or maybe tow a boat to the lake on weekends, then the Ridgeline is a valid option. You can drive it every day without getting tired of it, thanks to its many comfort features. For the same price of a new Tacoma SR, you can get your hands on a used Ridgeline Black Edition that has more power, tows and hauls plenty of weight, and feels far more comfortable in any scenario.