2025 Honda Ridgeline vs. 2025 GMC Canyon Comparison

The 2025 Honda Ridgeline and 2025 GMC Canyon compete in the midsize pickup truck segment, where off-road driving prowess is as important as having a comfortable ride, up-to-date infotainment systems, and the latest in driver aids.

When it comes to all-terrain readiness, the Honda Ridgeline has the TrailSport trim. Known for its refinement and easy-to-drive nature, the Ridgeline is still very much a truck at heart and can tackle all but the most extreme towing and hauling challenges.

The GMC Canyon and its mechanical twin, the Chevrolet Colorado, recently received a total redesign. From top to bottom, this third-gen Canyon is more rugged and luxurious than before. A lot depends on the Canyon’s chosen trim, which, similar to the Honda Ridgeline, has in its arsenal an impressive off-road variant.    

Let’s explore some highlights of both the Ridgeline and Canyon. 

2025 Honda Ridgeline

The Honda Ridgeline rolls into the 2025 model year with four trims: Sport, RTL, TrailSport, and Black Edition. Each comes with a 280-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 coupled to a 9-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive (AWD) is standard. 

With a base price of $41,600 (including destination charge), the Ridgeline has one of the highest entry fees among midsize trucks. Helping to justify the added expense is that Honda loads even the standard Sport trim with tons of features that usually cost extra on competing models.  

Honda Ridgeline Highlights

Car-like dynamics: During miles and miles of testing, we’re routinely impressed by how the Ridgeline delivers the comfort and agility of a family-friendly SUV. This pickup isn’t the kind of truck that makes you feel like you’re piloting a barge. The 280-horsepower V6 serves up plenty of passing power, and the steering lets you place it with accuracy and confidence. 

Hidden cargo storage: This 7.3 cubic-foot lockable storage compartment is perfect for those times when you want to keep cargo safe and secure. It’s located underneath the floor of the 5-foot cargo bed. 

Leave the cords at home: Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on the Ridgeline. 

TrailSport model: The Honda Ridgeline TrailSport amps up the all-terrain credentials of this pickup. Starting at $46,830, the TrailSport includes steel underbody skid plates, all-terrain tires, and an off-road-tuned suspension system. 

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Ridgeline models for sale near you. 

2025 GMC Canyon

The GMC Canyon has a starting price of $40,095, including destination charge, and three trims are available: Elevation, AT4, and Denali. There’s also the AT4X package, an option for the AT4 trim with the most off-road-ready features. Similar to the Ridgeline, the Canyon is pricier than many rivals. Yet standard features like an 11.3-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone connectivity, and remote locking tailgate help justify its premium. 

Like the Honda Ridgeline, the GMC Canyon also has one available engine. The turbocharged 2.7-liter 4-cylinder produces 310 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque. The Elevation model offers a choice of rear- or 4-wheel drive; the other trims have 4-wheel drive standard.

GMC Canyon Highlights 

AT4X AEV: The Canyon’s mud-plugging capability skyrockets with the AT4X package, created by off-road outfitter AEV. It has locking front and rear differentials, trim-specific front and rear steel bumpers, 12.2 inches of ground clearance, launch control, beadlock-capable 35-inch tires, and Multimatic spool-valve shocks. 

Upscale Denali interior: Should you like your pickup truck to coddle you, then consider the Denali variant. Fancy touches like wood trim, perforated leather seating, a Bose audio system, 20-inch alloys, chrome side steps, and a surround-view parking camera abound. It’s fancier than a loaded Honda Ridgeline.

Modern tech: You get an expansive 11.3-inch touchscreen standard in the Canyon. Not only does it come with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but Google-based voice commands and Google Maps navigation are also included. 

Functional bed: Pickup truck buyers appreciate attention to detail. As the name implies, the CornerStep rear bumper provides a handy toehold for accessing the cargo bed. An optional waterproof tailgate storage compartment is another clever touch perfect for storing gear.  

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Canyon models for sale near you. 

Similarities

There isn’t a wrong choice in this comparison. The Honda Ridgeline and GMC Canyon are priced slightly more than other midsize pickups, but each comes better equipped than is the norm for this market segment.

Specifications

Pricing

The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors. The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2025 Honda Ridgeline vehicles and New 2025 GMC Canyon Crew Cab vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership. These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.

Conclusion

These are two well-rounded trucks with above-average refinement and trims seemingly tailored to anything from off-roading to Michelin-starred dining. Of the two, the newer GMC Canyon has several advantages. It can tow and haul more than the Honda Ridgeline, has a larger infotainment screen and more tech, and holds a horsepower advantage. 

Does this relegate the Honda Ridgeline to also-ran status? Not at all. If you want a truck that’s comfortable, super reliable, and easy to maneuver, then definitely take the Honda out for a test drive.