Trail-rated trials for seven trucks and SUVs

2008 HONDA RIDGELINE - It's been called the gentle pickup truck. The Ridgeline is an odd-looking but superb blend of truck utility and car-like handling. Even though it initially confused some folks, this may be the perfect suburban pickup truck. It's not a hard off-roader, and was never meant to be. But as it proved here, it will get you to the ski chalet, the trout stream, or the hiking trail. And it will serve you well on weekends when its time to do mundane errands.

By Royal Ford

Click here (http://www.boston.com/cars/car_reviews/articles/2007/09/29/on_target_for_off_road_experience/) to read the entire review from the Boston Globe

Good summation-and we're in some very nice company indeed. He's spot on about the Ridge and the fact that most of these capable off road beasts primarily do market duty. For my driving needs, the Ridgeline is absolutely perfect...........and gas mileage gets better and better.