[Lifesaver1]

In my view, you can count on prices going up, possibly significantly. Two reasons: 1) tariffs; and 2) the threat of tariffs.

With respect to #1, the Trump administration imposed 25% tariffs on imported auto parts (not including most from Canada and Mexico) on May 3, 2025. Many vehicles produced in the US have engines, transmissions, batteries, etc. produced in other countries. I can't speak specifically to Ridgelines, but there's a reported wrinkle that the tariffs on auto parts will not apply fully to companies making cars in the USA for two years (who knows if that will hold).

With respect to #2, the threat of tariffs alone and their effects are motivating people to buy cars now (used and new). I'm one of them. I had a 2017 RTL with 147,000+ miles on it and had been contemplating buying a new one this year or next. Seeing the possibility of a significant increase in cost (and decline in availability) motivated me to buy immediately. There are plenty of reports of others doing the same. The laws of supply and demand suggest that alone will have an impact on availability and price (think of toilet paper shortages during Covid).

I was amazed that I was able to buy my Trailsport for so little more than I had bought my RTL-E in 2016. Specifically, in 2016 I paid $42,265 before taxes and fees (it was the sticker price with a $900 destination and handling fee). Last month I paid $45,537 for a 2025 Trailsport before taxes and fees. (Sticker was $47,025, plus the costs of some preinstalled add-ons listed at $2,990 total = $50,015). Inflation alone (using a standard inflation calculator) should have made the cost before the add-ons $56,300. Rather amazing to me.

My guess is that because of #1 and #2 prices will rise much faster in the coming years. Time will tell.

 

[Lifesaver1]

I read an online article yesterday that was listing the top 5 cars ( no trucks) with the most USA made parts and 5 with the most imported parts thus the highest tariffs. Tesla came in at no 1 on the lowest tariff list and Honda was in second place. Toyota was No. 5 I think on the worst list. I would think the Ridgeline being made in Alabama would be on the best list if trucks were listed.

Thanks for mentioning that. This may be what you are referring to. Note that the Ridgeline is listed at #6. Impressive. https://www.cars.com/articles/2024-...cles/2024-cars-com-american-made-index-which-cars-are-the-most-american-484903/

 

[Lifesaver1]

The MSRP of it of the 2017 Ridgeline RTL was under 37,000 including destination.

I saved the sticker from the vehicle. Not sure what you're referencing.

 

[Lifesaver1]

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View attachment 466231
The 2017 Honda Ridgeline had an MSRP range starting from $29,475 for the RT 2WD up to $42,970 for the Black Edition. Specific trim levels and their MSRPs included: RT AWD at $31,375, RTS at $31,515, Sport at $33,015, RTL at $33,780, RTL-T at $35,930, RTL-E at $41,470, and Black Edition at $42,970.

Thanks for this and apologies to 14v6. My 2017 was an RTL-E. I edited my earlier post to clarify that.

 

[Lifesaver1]

Interesting article here entitled: Carmakers relying on stealth price hikes to cope with Trump’s tariffs, U.S. shoppers racing to beat higher costs will find that the trade war already is taking hold, often in ways nearly invisible to consumers

Carmakers relying on stealth price hikes to cope with Trump’s tariffs

A separate article by Forbes notes, "The least impacted brands would be Tesla, Honda, and Ford as their imports are comparatively lesser than other players." How 2025 Tariffs Are Reshaping the U.S. Automotive Industry

But a further wrinkle appears to be import duties on aluminum. The NY Times reports (June 4): "President Trump has raised tariffs on steel and aluminum imports to 50 percent less than three months after imposing a 25 percent tariff on them. He said the move, made Wednesday, would help support U.S. steel companies, but many domestic businesses say that the latest increase would hurt them and raise prices for all Americans. U.S. home builders, car manufacturers, oil producers and can makers will be among the most affected. Many companies in those and other industries will likely pass on cost increases to their customers."

So it would seem as though even autos full assembled in the USA will be impacted.

 

[Lifesaver1]

Several Youtube videos are saying how sales of the Ridgeline are below last year, and prior years. Sales are down. And they are offering $7K discounts (I find that hard to believe). Looking around, I think the discounts are around $1.5K and maybe $2K for the BE.

I don't know what is "true?"

One example. Honda Ridgeline trucks are PILING up. Discontinued next? Around 3:30 mark.

Interesting. Thank you. Looking on my bill of sale from April, there was indeed a $1,500 manufacturer's rebate listed.

I must say that it continues to surprise me that trucks of this category from Toyota, Ford, etc. sell so much better. I've driven some and owned a Ford Ranger at one time. The ride and capabilities of the Ridgeline far exceed them, in my opinion. I certainly hope these podcasters are wrong about the future of the Ridgeline.