Wish list of features and not used ones

Ok, here's my wish list of 'realistic' features I want and another paragraph of included stuff I don't use:

Telescoping steering wheel.
All door auto unlock.
Trip computer.
Gas shocks for hood and maybe even a hood light.
Full size spare tire.
Dash redsign so I can actually see something beside speedo, hands block everything else.
Seat positon memory.
Speedometer that doesn't go above the actual speed the truck/tires are capable of.
Rear passenger headrests all like the middle one.
Two more cup holders up front somewhere.
Daytime Running Lights.
Auto-On Lights.

Items I don't use:
Cargo light 'button'.
Voice control.

Vertrkr, I think your calling is to work for a truck designer. Are you a mechnical engineer?

My comments:

Telescoping steering wheel. -- Maybe.
All door auto unlock. -- Maybe.
Trip computer. -- Maybe.
Gas shocks for hood and maybe even a hood light. -- Maybe.
Full size spare tire. -- Yes, for safety with hydraulic jack.
Dash redsign so I can actually see something beside speedo, hands block everything else. -- Maybe.
Seat positon memory. -- Maybe.
Speedometer that doesn't go above the actual speed the truck/tires are capable of. -- yes.
Rear passenger headrests all like the middle one. -- Yes. They should all fold down or recess.
Two more cup holders up front somewhere. -- Maybe.
Daytime Running Lights. -- Maybe, you know, whenever I see 3 or more DRL, I think it is a funeral.
Auto-On Lights.- Yes. But since it is auto-off, can't you leave it on?

My addition:

Climate control power button should be ON and OFF like the radio button. whenever I try to turn off the air I hit the ON button and then realize I need to hit the small OFF button.

Foot operated break release - My other cars all have foot operated on/off break release. OR move the cruise and VSA button away from the break release handle. Since the handle is not easily seen, one can accidentally touch and activate the other buttons.

Truck Bed hooks - why only 6 hooks and none at top rear?

Bluetooth phone system-- for safety while driving.

Items I don't use:
Cargo light 'button'. -- Maybe.
Voice control. -- Maybe.
XM radio -- did not even activate it. Probably never will.

I will add more when I get off work.

Vertrkr, I think your calling is to work for a truck designer. Are you a mechnical engineer?

I do have a ME degree but don't work in the field. I understand Honda's economic/ergonomic issues with adding these but I just put up a list of things that bother me and/or items my other cars have that I liked.

auto open on front passenger window too.

auto open and close on sunroof.

power passenger seat.

I'll tell you an indirect benefit of the voice controlled GPS. My wife has a 2003 Infinity QX4 with a GPS system. It is not voice controlled. As a safety feature, you cannot input data into the GPS system at any speed over 4 mph. If you want to input an address, you pretty much have to pull over to the side of the road and stop. Great safety feature, but I love being able to verbally input data as I'm driving down the road. Takes a while to learn the correct phrases but it blows the 2 year old "Infinity" technology away. No knock on Infinity, it's a great car.

I'd like a switch for choice of auto-on headlights, a full size spare tire and a way to prevent me from pushing down that damn security sensor with my elbow. :D

I'd like a switch for choice of auto-on headlights, a full size spare tire and a way to prevent me from pushing down that damn security sensor with my elbow. :D

I tried that...my security sensor doesn't move. You are talking about the little red light on the drivers side door near the lock button correct?? Just want to be sure. Should it move??

I tried that...my security sensor doesn't move. You are talking about the little red light on the drivers side door near the lock button correct?? Just want to be sure. Should it move??

No, I don't think it should. I posted about this and I'm waiting for a reply from a guy who took his to the dealer to fix it. All I did was use my penknife to lift the one edge back in place (use to cheaper cars, I really should know better than a cheap fix). It works, but one of these days, I'm going to gouge the vinyl and really piss myself off. :D

maybearidge hit my top three. I would only add a redesigned stereo with XM. I don't like the XM integration at all. I'd like to see:

A two-line display with smaller characters
A better "tune" rocker design, maybe a rotary controller, or keypad
More presets
The ability to scroll up and down XM stations from the wheel, not just presets
Preamp outputs
Remote control
Better XM antenna with less dropouts

And as some have already mentioned, better AM and FM reception.

Oh yeah....I would like the radio to display the song title too....that is a nice feature...to have

Not that it matters for those of us who've already invested, but you're not thinking big enough! Here are my wishes:

- manual trans - 5 on the floor!
- hybrid technology and 30 MPG
- aux/ipod jack standard
- pre-wire all electrical accessories (xm and xm antenna, fog lights, backup, etc.)
- standard CD is MP3 compatible
- standard "Honda" locations for headlights, wipers, dimmer, handbrake controls
- less flimsy center console
- more and bolder exterior colors
- move the lock on the in-bed trunk to tailgate; must open tailgate to open in-bed trunk - eliminates flimsy tonneau cover lock
- less noisy roof rack
- auto close rear window like auto-close all windows
- Navigation system cost is $500, not $2000
- 5 MPH bumpers (look like they're 0 MPH)
- water tight bed cover.
- upgrade policy - able to trade-in or upgrade V 1.0 vehicle to 2.0, etc.!

featser, your wish lists are great but they are actual wish list upgrades. Vertrkr's wish list is actually Honda oversights. but he is just being diplomatic.

I agree with more XM presets, and power passenger seat. All & all, compared to past vehicles, that I knew the guys at enterprise by there 1st name because the *^(&( things were always in the shop.. I biggest wish is that The ridge was out yrs ago, or at minimum, I came to Honda! I love this truck!

Well Folks,

Personally, I'd rather have a truck that was as fast as my speedo. Oh Yeah! LOL

Auto close on the rear slider would be great as it's the one and only thing I have to go back into the truck to do.....again and again.

Better yet, I want a docking system to upgrade MY memory so I don't forget dumb little things all the time. "Hit me!"

Here in Oregon it's unlawful to operate your vehicle with it's "parking lights" displayed, which is what "running lights" are considered on this type of rig. I suppose that's part of the overall decision making process by those in power.

I think the fact that the top of the line interior level has to buy a dash trim kit is crazy! You can't find a Silverado or Lariat XLT that has that option.

Not that I have a way to solve it, but has anyone tried to find a spot to mount a note pad (Refer to line #3) or even a trash bag? The entire dash has been used for something. On one hand I praise the good use of space. One the other hand, there is no way, but their way. Maybe a modular option system that lets you remove and replace part of the console or dash with another functioning piece. Like a bank of "office" style features that replaces the sliding part of the console. For those of us that live in our trucks for work. Like a clip board/trash can/cell phone holder. Another could be a family or new baby friendly unit with do-dads for Moms and such.

I have developed a close relationship with my nav voice person. Leave her be alright? (I STILL wanna find that recording to "tweek" it a little. HAHA Anyone? Anyone?)

I would like to see a volt converter mounted in the trunk, running my cordless tool battery chargers and stuff. Others could plug in a stereo or blender at a tailgater, etc., etc.

I love the fact the lock is hidden. No one knows I have tools on board until I show them. Sweeeeeeeeet.

I just got my new billet grill today. I'll post a pic once it's installed.

I'm fine with most of the cabin layout. Hand release brake is ok, I'm used to it from driving full size domestic trucks forever. Honda can't make everyone happy. For me, I knock my hat off every few times getting into the truck due to what I consider a lack of headroom at the door jamb. Others will not have this problem. I'll just learn to duck better when getting in.

Oh, and learn to remember to shut that dang rear slider! :D

Maybe these options:
-Gas shocks for the trunk
-Option to lock the tail gate
-Keyless entry and vehicle startup
-Trip Meter on all models
-Aux jack on all models
-lumbar support for all models
-DC to AC converter hook ups for power tools/equipment
-full size spare tire
-Larger side mirrors
-Audible warning tone for Low Fuel warning
-add 2 more cleats on top of the bed
-warning lights on Tail gate when open
-under carriage protector / skid plate to protect vital parts when off roading
-9 speaker systems
-un-obtrusive reading lights for rear side passengers

I have to toss in a strong second on the skid plates.

I'll have more of an opinion on this thread when our truck arrives.

This is far-fetched but I want a paint job that changes color depending on the temperature. Like those matchbox cars that changed colors when dipped in water.

This is far-fetched but I want a paint job that changes color depending on the temperature. Like those matchbox cars that changed colors when dipped in water.

Sounds like a 'mood ring' car. Might be a good idea so you can avoid the red 'pissed off' off cars.

My long time thought was to mandate every car equipped with paint ball guns in the bumbers. So instead of using your horn on some guy just shoot him with a paint ball. That way when you see a car all splattered up you know he's a bad driver :p

Sounds like a 'mood ring' car. Might be a good idea so you can avoid the red 'pissed off' off cars.

My long time thought was to mandate every car equipped with paint ball guns in the bumbers. So instead of using your horn on some guy just shoot him with a paint ball. That way when you see a car all splattered up you know he's a bad driver :p


Plus it could serve as a reminder when you get home look at your bumper. How many times did I get shot today?

Every item you all have brought up sounds good to me. Bring 'em on. BTW, the June Car and Driver has a comparison test with our Ridgeline. Guess who won?

I love the paintball idea.


The one thing so far that I wish they had thought of is a dashboard indicator showing me if the rear windows are completely closed or not.

There is a warning for rear window open when you turn off the ignition.

Didn't George Carlin have a similar idea, except with those suction cup dart guns? You shot a dart if the other driver did something stupid. If a cop saw you with 5 darts, he gave you a ticket for being stupid (I think Carlin used a stronger word:D)

I would have to say that the #1 feature I would want on my truck is a locking tailgate.

I have this fear that someone is going to "swing open" the tailgate while it is parked somewhere. Reflectors will help, but people are not going to be "looking" for a tailgate that sings out.

Honda -if you are listening, it won't take a very bright lawyer to see this as a safety issue. How about figuring out a locking mechanism for us early buyers?

Another safety feature that should be added at the tailgate is more finger room at the top latch. Actually it only takes one time slamming the swinging gate on your fingers to learn the lesson. HELLO!

Realistic wishlist:
- black interior available on the black RL
- sunroof available on all RL's (I don't like leather seats)
- waterproof tonneau cover (keeps the bed dry)
- locking tailgate
Unrealistic (perhaps) wishlist:
- hybrid or diesel powertrain + increased towing capability
- HFP package (more out of interest...but might consider getting it if available)

Sunroof Option on RT
Moonroof Option on RTS
Powerport in Bed
Two Tiedown Cleats (Upper Rear Bed)
Power Seat Memory for RTS/RTL (Keycoded)
Passenger Power Seat RTL
Wireing for Hitch Installed (All models)

I don't object to buying a Hitch, but all the wireing that is only $50 at the time of construction/assembly is now $169msrp + Install (2.5 hrs @ Local Honda) is too much

Auto Close for all windows (Don't just beep at me)
Someone needs to start the petition to get it so if you hit the Lock twice, horn would honk and then the windows would close

Someone needs to start the petition to get it so if you hit the Lock twice, horn would honk and then the windows would close

I think the windows only open by remote and open/close by key is bacause someone could have something (arm/finger/neck) stickint in or out of the window and the "auto-open-upon-obstruction" may not work and cause an injury or death. Just a guess that it's a feature designed by lawyers not engineers.

I love my Ridge, but it should also have;
A vanity mirror in the drivers side sunshade,
A map light on the passenger side that doesn't blind the driver,
All windows UP on remote,
More leg room for the driver,
A way to turn off the "headlights on" beeper.

As already mentioned it should have power on both seats, memory on seat and mirror settings, rear head rests like the center one, a trip computor and telescope wheel. I also think that for the next version, being able to program some of the functions in the way I want them to work would be "nice"

Ditto on the bluetooth for cel phones! :)

With regard to things like lock functions, I just saw this ad in Road&Track:

"Some of the biggest changes you'll see at Lexus are the ones you're going to make yourself.

We've seen the future and it's called personalization.

Today, every Lexus has the capability to have many of its electronic settings customized. Meaning things like lights, locks, and windows can be programmed to operate in a way that's most convenient for you.

Simply decide on the adjustments you would like to make, and your Lexus dealer will handle the rest.

In the years to come, we'll add even more things to our vehicles that you can personalize. You see, at Lexus, we never forget who's in the driver's seat..."

Maybe Honda will add the same type of personalization to the Ridgeline, or maybe we'll have to go to the Acura version when it's available to get such luxuries as doors that unlock automatically!

Bob

I think Vertrkr has it pretty muck covered for me.
I added one thing.

Telescoping steering wheel. Y
All door auto unlock. Y
Trip computer. YYY
Gas shocks for hood and maybe even a hood light. Y
Full size spare tire. Y
Dash redsign so I can actually see something beside speedo, hands block everything else. ?
Seat positon memory. YYY
Speedometer that doesn't go above the actual speed the truck/tires are capable of. ?
Rear passenger headrests all like the middle one. Y
Two more cup holders up front somewhere. ?
Daytime Running Lights. ?
Auto-On Lights. ?

My addition - Radio mute button on steering wheel.

I keep looking for it when my cell phone rings or my back seat drivers are giving me orders. Have this feature in my other vehicles and sure is better than reaching for radio on/off/volume knob.

Oh, I do use Voice Control on occasion - another reason for radio mute button.

I think Vertrkr has it pretty muck covered for me.
I added one thing.

Telescoping steering wheel. Y
All door auto unlock. Y
Trip computer. YYY
Gas shocks for hood and maybe even a hood light. Y
Full size spare tire. Y
Dash redsign so I can actually see something beside speedo, hands block everything else. ?
Seat positon memory. YYY
Speedometer that doesn't go above the actual speed the truck/tires are capable of. ?
Rear passenger headrests all like the middle one. Y
Two more cup holders up front somewhere. ?
Daytime Running Lights. ?
Auto-On Lights. ?

My addition - Radio mute button on steering wheel.

I keep looking for it when my cell phone rings or my back seat drivers are giving me orders. Have this feature in my other vehicles and sure is better than reaching for radio on/off/volume knob.
Hey JOZ..I found that if you hold the volume in the down position for an extra second or two, the volume goes down really fast. Try it.

Hey JOZ..I found that if you hold the volume in the down position for an extra second, the volume goes down really fast. Try it.

Hey Ladyridge Hi.

Your right but I guess it just isn't fast enough for me. lol

But i'll do that.

Thanks.

Joe

MY wish>>> I work 7 pm to 7 am. I wish every day at 7:40 am my RL would audibly announce that the wiper blade switch was not the headlight switch. I am always so sleepy at that time I flip the wipers on instead of shutting the headlights off. :confused:

MY wish>>> I work 7 pm to 7 am. I wish every day at 7:40 am my RL would audibly announce that the wiper blade switch was not the headlight switch. I am always so sleepy at that time I flip the wipers on instead of shutting the headlights off. :confused:
If you have Nav I think you can make it do this. I haven't really played with the messages setup though so not sure.

I'm surprised no one has mentioned a manual transmission. Or am I alone with that one? Stick shifts generally score you 2-5 more mpg's than the automatics. Better control over your RPM's.

Anyway, whether I stand alone or among others, I vote stick shift!

I like most of these suggestions. May I add speakers for the radio in the bed of truck?

I'm surprised no one has mentioned a manual transmission. Or am I alone with that one? Stick shifts generally score you 2-5 more mpg's than the automatics. Better control over your RPM's.

Anyway, whether I stand alone or among others, I vote stick shift!

With their supposed direction toward hybrid, they will never put out a manual transmission because you can not control the newer hybrid technologies to the best efficiency with a manual transmission without a lot of self training and amazing desire. So the reality is with hybrid technology you will almost always see lower EPA numbers for manual than CVT.

-- Slightly faster steering ratio
-- Better turning circle. Try a Tahoe for good example.
--make the doors unlock just like the manual says they will- Don't just change the manual.
-- Telescopic or somehow adjustable steering column length. It is too far away after the seat is set properly for the leg length.
-- Move the headlights back to a steering column stalk as the big knob hits my knee
-- PREWIRE THE DAMN FOG LIGHT HARNESS (what a pain that was to get the relay/fuse box back together. (Fire the engineer that designed that procedure)
-- Include the fog lights on the RTL, everybody else does on their top models.
-- seat memories
--$2000 Nav/changer option should play MP3s without another $600 option.
--Give us back the Trip Computer screen. You don't need to keep it from us.
--Nav DVD upgrades at a more resonable cost. (We know you don't have to charge that much for something that you make money on from all the businesses that pay to get their name/address in the POI database --example the "Yellow Pages" are free to consumers)
--Make the V6 not have to be cranked so long before it starts. All my other fuel injected vehicles "bump start" (why does the fuel pressure bleed down?)
--More exterior color options and why don't you sell the Red exterior with a black interior like your nice, glossy color advertising package shows.
--Allow the tranny to upshift to "5th" at 40mph instead of 45. I drive a lot of flat roads that keep me just out of top gear for no reason.
--offer the compass mirror as an option in NAV models.
--display the actual tire pressures in the multidisplay-not just "low"
--change the gear selector so it naturally wants to go into "D" instead of "2" from "P".
--if you turn on the "FAN" manually, don't run the A/C compressor.
--if the A/C compressor is engaged, turn on the "A/C" indicator in the display (it doesn't display if you hit the fan button from OFF, yet it is running.)
--Allow the VTM-4 system to be set to run in 50/50 lock in low gear without traction control stalling the engine to stop wheel spin. (sometimes you just need to spin thru that soft sand with all fours--it;s only a software change)
--Get rid of the old 1157 tail light bulbs and use solid-state LEDs. They are brighter, faster to light up, use less energy and are safer.
--allow the steering wheel controls to change the XM channels, not just presets (unless I missed how to get this to function) the channel change buttons are so far way from the driver, they might as well be in the vehicle in the lane next to you.

Other than that, just perfect. :)

Hey all...

I just picked up my Ridge on Friday, Steel Blue RTL S/R... I had an Element for about a year and although I loved that Element, I REALLY love the Ridge...

One thing I would like to see that I don't is a better way to set your dash/radio/climate dimmer... the dash lights are much brighter than the radio and climate and you cant turn the dash down enough without making the radio and climate controls unreadable... I wish you could control them separately... I would also like to see the all door unlock but I guess there is a way to make that happen no so I'll do that...

No particular order

Headlight washers
DRL
High end models - rain sensing wipers
110V power outlet(like Toyota)
Climate control display angle improved for readability
Modern voice command system (speed, accuracy, delay, variations in commands, logic)
turning radius
full size spare
rear camera that isn't a giant wart on the tailgate
better steering wheel materials...and a bit thinner
redesign the backseat headrests ( hole in center or allow them to drop into the seat. They create a dangerous blindspot)
Lane changing lights on the side of the truck (or on the mirrors)
tranny logic when towing, there is a bit of hunting

First and foremost is the need for a telescopic steering column and reasonable leg room for driver. note: REASONABLE. I'm not Japanese!

Any ideas on how to install a telescopic steering column and extend the driver seat adjustment without paying a fortune? Interchangeable parts?

Second: FLOORMATS! When I pay $30k for a new vehicle I expect floormats to be standard equipment.

I like my ridgeline. however, after driving several miles and with no leg room and extending arms to the steering wheel nestled into the dash, I wish I could take it back and go buy a Chevy Avalanche.

First and foremost is the need for a telescopic steering column and reasonable leg room for driver. note: REASONABLE. I'm not Japanese!

Any ideas on how to install a telescopic steering column and extend the driver seat adjustment without paying a fortune? Interchangeable parts?

Second: FLOORMATS! When I pay $30k for a new vehicle I expect floormats to be standard equipment.

I like my ridgeline. however, after driving several miles and with no leg room and extending arms to the steering wheel nestled into the dash, I wish I could take it back and go buy a Chevy Avalanche.

You can....

I have an 07 RTL/Nav

DRLs
Fog Lights (standard) shouldn't have to buy from dealer especially on top of line RTL
Artist and song title on FM, not just XM
Auto sound system volume (increases with speed of vehicle)
Blue Tooth capable
Trailer Hitch (standard) Why does it come on the RTX but goes away with the more expensive RTL?

My work vehicle is a 2005 Suburban and other than Blue Tooth it has all of above. I realize the 2009/2010 have some of these but Honda should have had this stuff sooner especially since GM has had it.
BUT I do love my Ridgeline with 60,000 trouble free miles..may get a 2010!!