2006 Honda Ridgeline - Interior

Overview: Innovative Packaging with Quality and Refinement

The Ridgeline's interior is built around a wide, spacious and deep cabin design made possible by the packaging freedom of a unibody frame. Although the exterior length resembles a compact 4-door pickup, the width is the same as a full-size truck, giving the Ridgeline an interior volume in the same league as a full-size truck. The cabin's flexible space intelligently accommodates both people and cargo with room for five persons and a 60/40 Lift-Up Rear Seat with Underseat Storage accommodates a wide variety of modules. In seating mode, the rear seats offer storage room underneath ideal for hauling a golfbag, shotguns, toolboxes or similar items. With the rear seats folded up against the rear wall, a large 54-quart cooler or a full size mountain bike with its front wheel removed can fit lengthwise in the second row - a feature that allows for precious cargo, like the contents of the cooler or the mountain bike, to be securely stored inside the vehicle.

2006 Honda Ridgeline Interior Highlights

• Large interior (112.0 cu.-ft.) with comfortable 5-passenger seating
• Innovative packaging with 60/40 Lift-Up Rear Seat with Underseat Storage
• Durable materials with refined fit and finish
• Large multi-function center console with sliding armrest
• Family-friendly rear seat with three LATCH positions
• Power windows, locks and cruise control
• Standard Climate Control with rear ventilation outlets
• Beverage holders in armrests and rear door linings
• Automatic heated windshield wiper zone
• Available leather interior and power moonroof
• Available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with Voice Recognition
• Available XM Satellite Radio

Interior Features

Safety

• Side curtain airbags with rollover sensor
• Dual-stage, dual threshold front airbags
• Front driver side airbag and front passenger side airbag with OPDS
• Driver and front passenger pre-tensioning seatbelts with load limiters
• Three-point seat belts and adjustable head restraints in all seating positions

Comfort and Convenience

• Power windows and locks
• Power sliding rear cabin window
• Cruise control
• 100-Watt AM/FM Audio System with CD Player (RT)
• Premium 160-Watt AM/FM/XM-ready Audio System with 6-disc CD Changer and Subwoofer (RTS and RTL)
• Available Moonroof with Power Slide and Tilt (RTL)
• XM Satellite Radio ready (standard on moonroof-equipped vehicles)
• 8-Way Power Driver's Seat with Manual Lumbar Support (RTS/Power Lumbar Support on RTL)
• Large multi-function storage console with hidden storage and sliding armrest
• 60/40 Split Flip Up Second Row Seat with underseat storage
• Front and rear all-weather rubber floor mats
• Rearview Mirror with Compass (RTL)
• Auto Door Lock/Unlock

Technology

• Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with Voice Recognition (available RTL)
• Smart Maintenance Service Reminder
• Large Information Display

Interior Styling Concept

Honda designers started with the image of a firehouse "dual-duty" concept for living and working. From there, design features were chosen that focus on a powerful build quality with honest and strong materials to create an open living area with space utilization set to accommodate "extra large" proportions. Like a firehouse, the Ridgeline has a command center (instrument panel with precise and rugged controls), a large living area (generous front row space) and a cavernous storage/garage bay (second row with wide door openings and a flat floor). Results of this approach can be found in details like large door handles that can be operated with gloves, big storage boxes built into the doors and instrument panel, and ergonomics that emulate that of a power tool.

Like all Honda vehicles, the Ridgeline's interior is designed with a world-class level of refinement, comfort and ease-of-use (ergonomics). Gauges, switches and indicator lamps are carefully postioned and well labeled for intuitive use. Every aspect of the interior has been optimized to provide an enjoyable and relaxing driving experience for all occupants.

Full Size Interior Dimensions: Size Where It Counts

Comparable to the interior of a full size truck, the interior volume of the Ridgeline measures 112.0 cu.-ft.). In fact, the rear seat accommodations are comparable to those found in full-size trucks without the associated fuel economy or maneuverability penalties. Here is how the Ridgeline's interior dimensions stack up against some popular full-size and compact products.

.	2006 Ridgeline RTS	2005 F-150 Super Crew	2005 Avalanchex	2004 Chevrolet Coloradox	2005 Dodge Dakota Quad Cab
Size	Mid Size Truck	Full Size Pickup	Full Size SUT	Mid Size Pickup	Mid Size Pickup
SAE Passenger Volume (cu. ft.)	112.0	121.8 (117.7*)	120.2 (113.7*)	Not Advertised (93.5*)	102.3 (99.2*)
Head Room: Front (in.)	40.7	40.1 (40.0*)	40.7 (41.3*)	39.6 (39.4*)	39.0 (39.4*)
Head Room: Rear (in.)	39.1	39.6 (39.4*)	38.6 (38.7*)	38.3 (38.3)	38.0 (38.0*)
Leg Room: Front (in.)	40.8	41.3 (40.8)	41.3 (41.9*)	42.2 (42.2*)	41.0 (42.4*)
Leg Room: Rear (in.)	36.4	39.0 (36.1)	38.9 (32.2*)	34.8 (29.6*)	36.0 (29.6*)
Shoulder Room: Front (in.)	63.2	65.8 (65.5*)	65.2 (65.2*)	57.1 (57.1*)	57.0 (57.0*)
Shoulder Room: Rear (in.)	62.6	65.8 (65.7*)	65.2 (65.3*)	57.1 (57.1*)	57.0 (57.0*)
Knee Clearance (in.)	1.0	1.9*	0.8*	-0.6*	-0.7*
Rear Seatback Angle (degrees)	23.0	20.1*	18.0*	23.6*	23.1*

* Honda test data using SAE measurement methods (directly comparable to Ridgeline measurement).

Multi-Functional Cabin

Recognizing that more families are using a pickup truck as a primary vehicle for both everyday use and recreation use, the Ridgeline implements features that make switching between a comfortable people hauler to a down and dirty gear hauler quick and easy - while doing both jobs exceptionally well. For comfort, the rear cabin's 60/40 split flip-up seat has a class-leading recline angle more like a sedan's second row seats (unlike some competitors that have more upright seat design). As a family friendly vehicle, three Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) points allow for three child seat positions in the second row. Comfort and convenience features in the second row include an integrated armrest with beverage holders, large door pocket storage area with bottle holders, rear climate control ventilation outlets, bag hooks, and a 12-volt DC outlet. The rear seats also provide under seat storage. To keep items from rolling around, the vertical bars that support the front of the rear seat help keep under-seat objects from rolling forward. Front and rear all-weather rubber floor mats trap water, mud, snow, French fries or whatever and allow for worry-free operation with easy cleanup.

Flexible 5-Passenger Seating

The Ridgeline has four unique seating scenarios that allow the interior to be easily adapted for people and/or cargo. The Ridgeline can seat five people in full seating mode, or four people with 40 percent rear seat cargo storage, or three people with 60 percent cargo rear seat storage, or two people with 100 percent rear seat cargo storage.

Front Bucket Seats

The front row features two bucket seats with a generous center console/armrest in between. Wide seat cushions and a commanding seating position add to the truck feel while the overall seat design emphasizes long haul comfort and much-needed lateral support - to accommodate the Ridgeline's un-pickup-like handling performance. Driver's seats on the RT have manual controls for slide, recline and height adjustments. RTS models have 8-way power driver seats and a manual lumbar support, and RTL models add a power lumbar support. Front passenger seats on all models feature manual controls for sliding and reclining.

60/40 Flip Up Rear Seats with Under Seat Storage

The second row bench-style seat accommodates up to three passengers and has a 60/40 flip up design that quickly converts the rear seating area into a wide open cargo storage area with a flat floor. In the down (sitting) position, a storage area is created that is large enough to hold a medium-sized golf bag. The storage area can be accessed from the sides or the front (between the legs). This design was the best answer to market research that showed an even split between some people who want an open area under the seat with easy access, while others want an entirely enclosed storage area. Honda's flip up design effectively gives people both types of functionality. To further please everybody 100 percent, Honda has developed an accessory rear underseat storage bin to meet the needs of "must-have-completely-enclosed-underseat-storage" personality types. The Ridgeline emphasizes rear seat comfort with a seatback design that angles back more like a sedan. A large armrest folds down from the seatback and contains two beverage holders. All seating positions have headrests. The center seating position's headrest is integrated into the top of the seatback so that when not in use it does not interfere with the driver's rear vision.

Instrument Panel

As the command center for the Ridgeline, the instrument panel integrates a precision and rugged look with large gauges, buttons and controls along with clever storage areas for wireless phones, PDAs and other small objects.

Gauge Cluster

The gauge cluster features the usual instruments - a speedometer (140 mph), odometer with dual trip meters, tachometer, temperature gauge, fuel gauge and warning indicators - along with an information display for items such as the Smart Vehicle Maintenance system, tire pressure monitoring system and vehicle status information. All totaled, there are more than 11 special features in the gauge cluster including:

• Welcome Illumination: Progressive meter illumination from door-open to ignition and vice versa
• TPMS Indicator: Has individual tire display with air pressures and warnings
• Smart Maintenance Warnings: Includes oil life and service code displays for tire rotation, air cleaner replacement, ATF replacement, spark plugs, timing belt, coolant and VTM-4 fluid service
• Tailgate Swing Open Indicator: Warning light and chime if tailgate is open in swing mode
• Outside Temperature Display: Temperature shown in Fahrenheit or Celsius
• Back Window Open Alarm: If the power sliding rear window is open and the key is removed, a warning occurs
• Parking Brake Indicator: The parking brake is set (includes chime)
• Trunk Open Indicator: If the trunk is open, the warning light turns on
• Cargo Light On Indicator: Indicates the rear cargo lights are on
• Headlights On Indicator/Alarm: Indicates the headlights are on
• Fuel Cap Open Alarm: Indicates the fuel cap is not installed or tightened properly

Steering Wheel, Column Gear Shifter and Switchgear

The steering wheel uses a large truck-style design with illuminated buttons for cruise control and audio system (RTS and RTL models) functions. The durable plating on the steering wheel matches the interior for door handles and related trim pieces throughout the interior.

A column gear shifter frees up interior space and allows the Ridgeline's transmission to be shifted with a convenient, short range of motion from the steering wheel to the shift lever. In truck applications, a column shifter offers advantages where towing and off-road use can often require an increased need to shift from forward to reverse frequently. Using an entirely new design for Honda, the shift lever provides easy gear selectability with a confident shift feeling. The design, with its metallic look and a large tactile grip, reflects the power tool ergonomics concept. A D3 button on the end allows for maintaining third gear for engine braking, such as when towing a trailer on a long decline. Excellent knee clearance is achieved even in the D1 position.

The wiper control stock, typically located on the right side of the steering wheel on Honda products, has been positioned to the left side on the turn signal stalk to allow for additional gear shift lever clearance. The headlight on/off switch, typically located on the turn signal stock on Honda vehicles, consequently, has been positioned on the lower left of the dashboard and features illumination.

Information Display

To keep the driver informed of the vehicle's status and to access multiple electronic functions, the Ridgeline has an information display. The information display is the interface for odometer/trip odometer, outside temperature and vehicle warnings. Maintenance Minder alerts are also presented via the information display.

Innovative Storage Compartments and Beverage Holders

More than a dozen storage zones and six beverage holders exist inside the cabin. The instrument panel provides up to four storage zones (depending on equipment) - a traditional glove box, overhead console with sunglasses holder, a CD storage pocket below the radio, a passenger-side tray with dividers (above the glove box) and a center stack lower pocket/tray. Every door has a large pocket ideal for maps and papers.

The passenger door has an upper armrest pocket ideal for holding wireless phones, digital cameras and similar items. The multi-function center console constitutes one huge storage zone, and there is a floor tray between the front seats.

Six beverage holders are located in: the multi-function center console (2), rear center armrest (2) and rear door pockets (bottle holders, 2).

Multi-Functional Center Console

The multi-function center console provides generous and innovative storage for its users. Starting at the console's top section, a wide armrest slides forward and back to accommodate passengers big and small, while the sliding armrest yields a built-in tray (hinged from the back) that can hold a PDA, wireless phone and coins with a removable coinholder. A rubber mat is provided so that items do not rattle. Moving down to the console's midsection, another sliding tray gives way to a cavernous illuminated bin. For drinks and food, the front portion of the console features yet another sliding tray with two beverage holders built to accommodate various-sized drinks. In the forward position, a shelf is created ideal for holding food. The front of the console culminates with a large floor-level tray, ideal for backpacks or bag-like objects with straps.

Power Sliding Rear Cabin Window

Usually an expensive option on trucks or available with manual operation only, the Honda Ridgeline features a power sliding rear cabin window as standard equipment. The rear window is designed so that the occupants can sit comfortably with minimal noise and unwanted airflow entering the cabin. The window has been tested to withstand high-pressure car washing without water leakage or dripping (a problem with some designs) and its placement and size minimize reflections on the instrument panel. When the vehicle is turned off and the rear window is still open, a dashlight reminder and a chime sound to indicate that the vehicle is not secure.

Manual Climate Control (RT)

The front climate controls on the Ridgeline RT are mounted centrally on the instrument panel for easy accessibility and feature large rotary knobs for temperature settings and fan control (5-speeds). Air conditioning and a micron air-filtration system are standard. The high capacity condenser with integral receiver drier runs the liquid refrigerant through a sub-cooling condenser, after the main condenser. The system is efficient and lightweight compared to traditional setups.

Dual Zone Automatic Climate Control (RTS and RTL)

In addition to above standard features, Ridgeline RTS and RTL models feature a dual zone Automatic Climate Control System (with a digital display) and can maintain a constant, pre-selected temperature individually for driver's and front passenger's seating areas. Dual-zone automatic climate control is a premium feature not often found in the pickup truck segment.

Automatic Heated Wiper Zone

The Automatic Heated Wiper Zone reduces the need for ice scraping while enhancing wiper performance in heavy snow and freezing rain conditions when wiper blades can become stiff and rendered useless. The heated wiper zone is warmed by electric defrost lines near the bottom of the windshield - similar to a common rear window defroster. Using the HVAC system to monitor outside temperature, operation is fully automatic. When the temperatures outside drops below about 39 degrees Fahrenheit, the heated wiper zone automatically turns on. The Ridgeline is the first truck on the market to offer this feature, which is more commonly found on luxury vehicles.

Audio System

Ridgeline audio equipment includes an AM/FM/CD/XM-ready audio system as standard equipment. Ridgeline RT models feature a 100-Watt amplifier and six speakers (one 6-inch speaker in each door and two front-mounted tweeters). Ridgeline RTS models add a 6-disc in-dash CD changer and have a 160-Watt amplifier with an 8-inch subwoofer located behind the rear seat. RTS and RTL models equipped with the available power moonroof come equipped with XM® Satellite Radio as standard equipment. Models equipped with the available Honda Navigation System feature an auxiliary input for portable music devices. The navigation system's voice recognition features can control audio system functions for volume, radio station/XM tuning, CD playback and much more.

XM® Satellite Radio

The Ridgeline comes pre-wired for XM Satellite Radio equipment that can be added as a dealer-installed accessory. XM Satellite Radio is a factory-installed feature on models that have the available factory installed moonroof or Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System (RTL). After a 90-day free trial service, customers will have the option to subscribe to XM Satellite Radio on these models, which includes 120 radio stations including music, news, sports, talk, local weather, traffic and other entertainment in a CD-quality digital format. The XM radio display can indicate the artist's name, track title, XM channel and category of music.

Interior Lighting

Significant attention has been paid to the interior lighting from placement of individual map lights to the switchgear. A network of nine map lights, dome lights and courtesy lights provide illumination to all front and rear passengers. A lamp mounted on rear of the center console illuminates the area under the rear seat. The power window switches in all four doors are also internally illuminated. The individual map lights in the Ridgeline are designed to illuminate an area large enough and bright enough so that a seated passenger can read by it. As the light continues to the floor, the beams overlap so that they illuminate the entire floor area, making it easier to see when getting in and out of the vehicle.

A master switch, located on the instrument panel, can also control the lights. With it, the driver can switch the system on or off, or have it come on automatically when the doors are opened.
Upon vehicle entry and exit, the lighting system in the instrument panel features progressive illumination. When the driver door is opened, the instrument brightness turns on at about 10 percent. When the key is put in the ignition, the illumination ramps up to 100 percent. When the ignition is turned on, the illuminated instrument needles and related lights come on, indicating that all systems are go. After driving, the process reverses itself. The entire process is purposely subtle, but illustrates the level of detailed engineering built into the Ridgeline.

Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with Voice Recognition

The Honda Satellite-Linked Honda Navigation System represents the latest and most intelligent navigation system from Honda. This industry leading system features advanced voice recognition, a large 8-inch touch screen display, and an expanded database that covers virtually all U.S. roads and 7 million points of interest (compared to four million or less for many systems currently on the market).

Major highlights for the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System include:

• Motorized flip-down 8-inch touchscreen;
• 3-D freeway interchange display (with split screen mode) that shows individual lanes graphically;
• Complete Zagat Survey™ restaurant guide (voice system can read review);
• Voice recognition identifies street names and numbers and minimizes need for manual entry;
• "Bread crumb" trail for off-road driving
• Up to five waypoints can be used for planning a trip;
• Intuitive map details, icons and general commands;
• An industry-leading destination guide with 7 million points of interest provides a business and recreation directory of virtually the entire continental United States with local addresses and business phone numbers.
• Destination guide categories include restaurants (searchable by type of cuisine), lodging, shopping, travel, banking, emergency, leisure, auto service and much more;
• Voice recognition system linked to audio and automatic climate control system;
• Day/Night visualization modes with user-selectable screen appearance;
• XM® Satellite Radio information display with detailed programming data.

Honda navigation systems have long been recognized for their simple, intuitive operation and extensive on-board database. When navigating freeways, a split screen design enhances on-screen information with a "map view" and "3-D" route visualization of freeways simultaneously- which helps make navigation information easier to understand. The system is linked to the car's audio system, so driving instructions can be heard over the speaker system, and the voice recognition feature offers a new realm of hands-free control to the navigation system.

The Honda Satellite-Linked DVD Navigation System uses Global Positioning Satellites (GPS) in combination with detailed information from the vehicle's DVD-based mapping system to pinpoint the vehicle's location and to provide a host of useful mapping and route guidance features. The antenna can utilize up to 12 satellites from a network of 24 global positioning satellites.

If the antenna is obstructed by a tunnel, a parking garage or a tall building, an internal gyroscopic system and a speed sensor track the location of the vehicle so that the map information remains current and reliable. The vehicle clock is independently controlled by GPS data, so when time zones are crossed while driving the clock will automatically set itself to the current time.

Turn-by-turn voice guidance is user selectable in either male or female voice and can be turned off at any time. Destination memory recalls current trip addresses and previous destinations; and calendar and calculator with English to metric number converter is standard.

The navigation system can be controlled by the driver through either the voice recognition system, the touch screen display, or by the joystick on the instrument panel. The voice recognition system works when the "talk" button, located on the steering wheel, is depressed. When spoken to, the system recognizes commands such as "find nearest gas station," or "find nearest ATM" and can also recognize street names. The voice recognition system has a vocabulary of approximately 500 commands and can recognize virtually any English-spoken accent.

The 8-inch LCD display is a touch screen that allows the driver or front passenger to choose menu options or spell out a word (i.e. address, business name, place, etc.) through a touch-sensitive keypad. (The keypad can be set to alphabetical or a QWERTY typewriter-style layout.) Alternatively, the joystick can be used to highlight menu options or to highlight specific letters on the keypad to complete a word. A matte finish is used on the display to reduce glare and smudging. The motorized screen conveniently tilts down to allow access to the CD 6-disc changer located behind the screen.

For data storage, the system uses a single DVD that contains information for the entire United States. Future updates to the navigation system can be made by installing an updated DVD (available on-line or by calling a toll free number).

The available rearview camera is automatically activated when the vehicle is put in reverse. A color camera is located on the rear tailgate and has a wide-angle lens.

Multiplex Wiring System

As vehicles gain more and more electronic functions, engineers look for ways to manage the many signals that are required to operate them. Between the keyless entry system, security alarm (on RTS and RTL models), auto-off headlights, VSA, optional Navigation system and other features, there are dozens of functions on the Ridgeline that need to be managed.In a multiplex system, one wire can carry many commands simultaneously, reducing the size, weight and complexity of wiring harnesses. A uniquely "coded" signal is sent through the wire for each desired function. For instance, a single wire might carry operating commands for all four of the Ridgeline's power windows and door locks. Each of these functions would be coded separately so that only the desired one would occur when a certain button was pressed-despite the fact that every device on the circuit received the same message.

Keyless Entry

Keyless entry is standard equipment on all Ridgeline models. The keys feature a built-in transmitter on the key grip that have lock, unlock and panic buttons. The fob can also roll down the first and second row windows by holding down the unlock button. The key can also perform the same function in the door lock cylinder, and roll up the windows, too, by turning to lock or unlock positions accordingly and holding. A valet key (minus the keyless entry features) is standard and will lock and unlock the doors like a traditional key yet prevent entry into the in-bed trunk. The in-bed trunk features a "trunk lock" button inside the glove box that can be locked/unlocked only using the regular key.

Antitheft Features and Wave Key

The new Ridgeline is protected by a variety of anti-theft features. All models feature the "wave" key for door and ignition and locks. This type of lock and key combination is much more resistant to copying and "picking" than conventional designs. Door and hood locks and their operating cables are now more thoroughly protected to prevent a "Slim Jim" or other jimmying device from being used to force entry. The engine immobilizer system shuts down the engine's electronic control unit (ECU) has been further enhanced with the addition of a rolling code.

HomeLink® Remote System

The Ridgeline RTL features a HomeLink® universal remote system built into the overhead map-light module. The system can be programmed with the codes of up to three devices, such as a garage-door opener, home security system, etc.

Power Outlets

The Ridgeline contains three 12-volt DC outlets - two located on the instrument panel's center stack and one on the back of the multi-function center console for rear passengers.

UV Resistant Glass

The Ridgeline is equipped with UV resistant glass. The glass filters Ultra Violet (U.V.) light and results in less interior fade over time, lower cabin temperatures on hot days and more efficient interior cooling. The rear cabin window and rear door windows have privacy glass (dark tinting).

Outward Visibility

Visibility is one of the first vehicle parameters to be defined in Honda's body design process with exterior and interior styling all meeting sight line targets set early in the design phase. Excellent outward visibility is a hallmark of Honda design. Consequently, the Ridgeline provides excellent sight lines for the driver in all key areas including a commanding eye point level of 1435mm (56.5 inches) and a short forward invisible length of 7.2m (23.7 feet). Forward invisible length is the distance a driver needs to look to see the ground in front of the vehicle.

INTERIOR SAFETY TECHNOLOGY

Overview

American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced in October of 2003 plans to apply advanced safety technologies to the full range of Honda and Acura products over the next several years in its 'Safety for Everyone' commitment. The goal of 'Safety for Everyone' is to provide high levels of safety protection for all Honda and Acura customers and for all road users, by applying Front Side Airbags, Side Curtain Airbags and Anti-Lock Brakes as standard equipment before the end of calendar year 2006. Furthermore, all Honda and Acura light trucks will be equipped with Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) and rollover sensors for side curtain airbag deployment before the end of calendar year 2006.

As a result of Honda's 'Safety for Everyone' commitment, the 2006 Honda Ridgeline is equipped with the industry's highest level of standard safety equipment for a pickup truck. The Ridgeline interior provides the following active safety equipment as standard on every trim level:

• Advanced Dual Stage, Dual Threshold Front Driver's and Front Passenger's Airbags
• Driver's Front Side Airbag and Front Passenger's Side Airbag with Occupant Position Detection System
• Two-Row Side Curtain Airbags with Rollover Sensor
• LATCH child seat anchor system in all three rear seating positions
• Driver and Front Passenger Pre-Tensioning Seatbelts with Load Limiters
• Three-Point Seat Belts in All Seating Positions

Three-Point Seat Belts

All of Ridgeline's five seating positions have three-point seat belts and adjustable head restraints. The front row seat belts are equipped with load limiters and pre-tensioners and have adjustable shoulder belt anchors.

Advanced Dual Stage, Dual Threshold Front Driver's and Front Passenger's Airbags

The Ridgeline is equipped with dual-stage, dual-threshold supplemental restraint system (SRS) airbags for the driver and front passenger. These airbags are designed to minimize the potential for airbag injury while providing head and chest protection for the occupants in the event of a collision.

The Ridgeline's front airbags can deploy at one of two rates. Deployment of the driver's front airbag takes into account the severity of the crash and whether or not the driver's seat belt is fastened. During a lower speed collision, the airbag inflators are triggered in sequence, resulting in overall airbag deployment with less initial force. Airbag deployment on the front passenger's airbag is regulated by crash severity and seatbelt usage. Similar to what is available on the driver's side, the airbags are deployed at the speed appropriate to the speed and severity of the collision - slower for lower speed collisions, more quickly for higher speeds. The driver's airbag is located in the steering wheel hub and the passenger's airbag is located on top of the dash. As in all Honda vehicles, the front passenger's airbag is designed to deploy upward toward the windshield and then back toward the occupant. This provides a large cushion to help protect the front passenger while reducing the likelihood of injury resulting from airbag deployment.

Driver's Front Side Airbag and Front Passenger's Side Airbag with Occupant Position Detection System

Like other Honda models, the Ridgeline is equipped with seat-mounted side airbags to help safeguard the driver and front passenger from side-impact injury. An innovative occupant position detection system is used to assure that the passenger's side airbag has a clear path for deployment. In the event a child (or a small-statured adult) leans into the deployment path of the side airbag, a seven-segment antenna system built within the backrest signals this condition to an electronic control unit (ECU) also located within the seat. The ECU then deactivates the side air bag from functioning and triggers a "SIDE AIRBAG OFF" indicator light in the instrument panel. After the front occupant returns to a normal seating position, the side air bag module automatically resumes full-functional status.

Side Curtain Airbags with Rollover Sensor

Both rows of occupants are protected by Honda's Side Curtain Airbag with Rollover Sensor system, which is standard equipment on all Ridgeline models - a first for the pickup truck segment. The side curtain airbags deploy from modules in the roof in the event of a sufficient side impact, providing a significant level of head protection in the window area. In the unlikely event of a rollover, a roll rate sensor, located underneath the front passenger seat, along with multiple G sensors determine the rate of roll and deploy the side curtain airbags accordingly.

Like the other airbag systems in the Ridgeline, the side curtain system utilizes multiple sensors to determine the most appropriate timing and rate of deployment of the airbags in the event of a rollover.

To provide the optimal level of protection for Ridgeline occupants, extensive testing was performed to determine the most appropriate timing and rate of deployment in the unlikely event of a rollover. The system uses algorithms to continually evaluate the situation and determines whether a rollover is eminent. The system responds to many types of rollover "events" drivers could potentially encounter including the "curb trip rollover" which as its name suggests, results when one side of the vehicle hits a curb or like object; the "soil trip rollover" which can result when one side of the vehicles suddenly comes into contact with a different surface type, often involving a slight elevation change; and the "screw rollover." This type of rollover is usually the steepest and fastest of the rollovers whereby the vehicle comes upon a sharp angle such as an embankment. The roll rate sensor and multiple G sensors determine the "scenario" and calculate the angle of roll and the speed of the vehicle in order to deploy the airbags at the correct stage for optimum protection. In the case of a rollover, the side curtain airbags on both sides of the vehicle will deploy. The airbags maintain full inflation for approximately three seconds after inflation to allow for the increased time duration of a rollover accident. However, in the event of a sufficient side impact that does not result in a rollover, only the airbags on the impacted side of the vehicle will deploy.

Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH) System

The Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH) system is standard equipment on the second row seats with anchor points for all three seating positions. The LATCH system features built-in, ready-to-use anchors and tethers allowing compatible child safety seats to be installed without using the vehicle's seat belt system.

Available Rear Parking Sensors (Dealer Accessory)

An increasing number of consumers are seeking supplemental technology to assist in backing up and making sure that people or objects are not in the path of the vehicle. The Ridgeline is available with parking sensors as a dealer-installed accessory that indicate (through a visual and audible warning from the Multi Information Display) that something may be in the path of the rear of the vehicle. The parking sensors are integrated into the rear bumpers and are body colored. The sensors can detect whether an object is directly behind or to the right rear or the left rear of the vehicle.