Honda announced a temporary production halt at its Alabama plant before unveiling a next‑generation Ridgeline slated for 2028. Meanwhile, the brand’s CR‑V topped U.S. sales for the first half of the year.

Key Takeaways

  • Ridgeline production pauses later this year in Alabama
  • New, more rugged model expected to return by 2028
  • CR‑V leads U.S. sales for the first half ever

Honda Motor confirmed on Thursday that a next‑generation Ridgeline pickup will be built in the United States after a temporary production stoppage later this year. The pause at the Alabama plant is projected to last until the vehicle returns to the line, likely in 2028.

Lance Woelfer, vice president of auto sales at American Honda Motor, said, “Our goal is to keep serving loyal Ridgeline customers, and we plan to bring forward increased ruggedness and capability.” He declined to comment on whether the new model will shift from a car‑based platform to a traditional body‑on‑frame construction.

During the same period, Honda’s CR‑V compact crossover led U.S. auto sales for the first time in the first half of 2023, as rivals Ford F‑Series pickups and Toyota RAV4 crossovers grappled with production bottlenecks. CR‑V sales rose roughly 6% versus the previous year.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that beefing up the Ridgeline’s rugged capabilities positions Honda to compete more aggressively against segment leaders like the Toyota Tacoma, diversifying the brand’s sales portfolio in the competitive U.S. market.

“A revitalized Ridgeline could give Honda a foothold in the lucrative mid‑size truck segment,” said an industry analyst.
Did You Know?: The Ridgeline has been Honda’s sole pickup line since 2005, and its name references the rugged ridgelines of the American West.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: When will the new Ridgeline be released?
A: The rollout is expected in 2028 after the temporary shutdown.

Q2: Will the new model use a body‑on‑frame design?
A: Honda has not confirmed the chassis architecture yet.