2021 Honda Pilot vs 2021 Ridgeline near Woodbridge, VA
Pictured above is the 2021 Honda Pilot EX-L in Obsidian Blue Pearl (left) and the 2021 Honda Ridgeline RTL-E in Modern Steel Metallic (right).
Customers in search of a muscular Honda vehicle have several models to consider, with the 2021 Pilot and 2021 Ridgeline likely leading the way. Though the former is a midsize SUV and the latter is a compact pickup truck, they share several attributes to make them comparable choices. That being said, they differ in several ways, so Pohanka Honda of Fredericksburg is here to explain what sets them apart!
Performance
Since the 2021 Pilot and Ridgeline are most similar when it comes to their mechanics, we’d like to begin by addressing how they perform. Both are powered by a 3.5L V6 engine that pumps out 280 horsepower1 and 262 lb.-ft. of torque2, so you certainly won’t be lacking strength behind the wheel. Furthermore, though both Honda vehicles also offer a 5,000-lb. maximum towing capacuity3 with AWD, this drivetrain comes standard on the Ridgeline, whereas the Pilot requires an upgrade. As a result, the Pilot is the more efficient model of the two, achieving up to 20/27 MPG city/hwy4 with 2WD and 19/26 MPG city/hwy4 with the Intelligent Variable Torque Management AWD System™. To compare, the 2021 Ridgeline maintains 18/24 MPG city/hwy5 across the board.
Interior
Given their different body styles, the 2021 Honda Pilot and 2021 Honda Ridgeline provide drivers with different traveling experiences. Naturally, the former is the logical choice for large families, as it can accommodate up to eight passengers in three rows of seating. Meanwhile, the Ridgeline has two rows that can fit five people in total. And though this truck has a compartment under the rear seats, its SUV counterpart allows you to stow its back rows for up to 109.2 cubic ft. of total cargo space6. However, in spite of these spatial differences, the Pilot and Ridgeline do share several interior amenities, including an optional 10-way power driver’s seat with heating and leather upholstery. That being said, only the Pilot also lets you spring for ventilated front-row chairs.
Exterior
Of course, you’ll have an easy time telling the Honda Pilot and Ridgeline apart from a distance. With the latter, you’ll be able to stow items in its roomy cargo box that provides 33.9 cubic ft. of storage volume, so feel free to load up everything you need for the next project or outing. Not to mention, the Ridgeline also boasts exclusive accessories like a truck bed audio system, a dual-action tailgate, and eight heavy-duty tie-down cleats. Though the Pilot lacks an open box like this, you can still access its cargo area in a seamless fashion with help from its optional hands-free power tailgate. And despite these obvious differences, this SUV and truck have similar identical features, such as an available one-touch power moonroof and standard 18-inch alloy wheels.
If you’re still trying to decide between the 2021 Honda Pilot vs 2021 Ridgeline near Woodbridge, VA, feel free to visit Pohanka Honda of Fredericksburg to take them both for a test drive. Our staff can also answer any questions on your mind, so don’t hesitate to reach out!
2021 Honda Pilot
2021 Honda Ridgeline
- 5,000-lb. maximum towing capacity
- Available AWD
- 280 horsepower
- 8-passenger seating capacity
- Available heated and ventilated front seats
- 5,000-lb. maximum towing capacity
- Standard AWD
- 280 horsepower
- 5-passenger seating capacity
- Available heated front seats
Sales Hours
540-654-7000
| Monday | 9:00 am - 9:00 pm |
| Tuesday | 9:00 am - 9:00 pm |
| Wednesday | 9:00 am - 9:00 pm |
| Thursday | 9:00 am - 9:00 pm |
| Friday | 9:00 am - 9:00 pm |
| Saturday | 9:00 am - 7:00 pm |
| Sunday | 11:00 am - 7:00 pm |
Dealership Information
Testimonials
“ Thomas was/has been super helpful with the buying experience at this location. They have gone above and beyond to ensure my complete satisfaction. Thank you all! ”
“ I had been shopping for a Honda Accord for over a week and spoke with multiple dealerships throughout Maryland and Virginia. After a lot of research and negotiation, I ultimately purchased my new 2026 Honda Accord SE from Pohanka Honda of Fredericksburg, and I could not be happier with the experience. Cody, the Sales Manager, was exceptional. He went above and beyond to earn my business and was honest, transparent, and true to his word throughout the entire process. I drove over an hour and a half to the dealership, and thanks to Cody’s professionalism and commitment, that drive was absolutely worth it. He worked hard to put together a deal that made sense and delivered exactly what he promised. Sabrina was my salesperson and was absolutely wonderful. She was knowledgeable, patient, and took the time to thoroughly explain every feature and specification of the vehicle. She never rushed us and made sure we were comfortable and understood everything about the car before leaving the dealership. The Finance Manager, Farhad was equally impressive. He was professional, honest, and never pushy. He took the time to explain all available options, answered every question clearly, and created a comfortable, pressure-free environment. His warm personality and genuine approach made the financing process surprisingly enjoyable. From start to finish, this was one of the best car-buying experiences I have ever had. If you’re looking for a dealership that values honesty, transparency, and customer service, I highly recommend Pohanka Honda of Fredericksburg. Thank you to Cody, Sabrina, Farhad, Zamir, Bosa and the entire team for making this such a positive experience😊 ”
“ Shout out to John who took good care of me and my 2022 Honda Odyssey. Brought it in for a recent recall and he made the process quick and easy. They also rotated the tires and gave her back to me clean. Always a solid experience and great customer service! ”
“ I had an amazing experience buying my Son’s Honda Accord LX. The salesman was Jeffrey K. What he promised he delivered. Great professional attitude at the high level! He treated us like VIP 5 stars customer. ”
“ Brian is great to work with ! He is very helpful, efficient and responsive. I had a great experience. ”
“ Jordan Fregoso was a pleasure to work with and assisted my purchase and trade-in. ”
“ James was great along with Nic the mechanic who quickly diagnosed and fixed my issue I really appreciate you guys ”
“ My experience was great. Ernest was very helpful and fair ”
“ Good service with lots of conversation about the car. ”
“ Superior professionalism thus far, they don’t try to over sell you or run up your invoice. I’ve been impressed with my service reps (all female btw), they have been responsive, understanding, and provided ample details. ”
“ I was helped by ting, he was so kind helped so much got my car done quick and got a lower price than I thought and helped me do the payment plan !! Highly recommend them!!! ”
“ My salesmen was Ernest Afriyie and he did an excellent job with the process of buying the new Honda CRV. He was a pleasure to work with and his assistant Cameron was also involved and kept me engaged during the process. Finally the deal was closed with manager Corey Watts. I am very thankfull to have met and dealt with these gentlemen. They are a credit to the Pohanka organization and I will willingly refer them to others in need of car. Great Experience! ”
“ Great service ”
“ Pohanka fixed one problem caused by another dealer and a 2nd issue for a 1/3 of the previous quote. ”
“ Got a dream car yesterday. Highly reccomend Wesley Robinson as the sales rep if you are in the market for a new vehicle for this location. Wesley genuinely cares you get the best vehicle for you wants and needs while being transparent and respecting your boundaries and wishes ”
“ James is great and kept things moving along. ”
“ I love bringing my Acura here. They take good care of it and make sure the maintenance is up-to-date. Good prices decent rates. Great service. ”
“ Sabrina was very helpful as she has been in the past. There was not go around and back and forth. I love how the facts were given straightforward and there was no hidden agenda. Farhad worked hard and fast to get the deal sealed on the fiance side. I can’t thank the team at Pohanka enough for helping me out, all while doing this with a 5 year old along with me!! Pink bow for my birthday and graduating with my masters!!! Thank you again for taking care of our family! ”
“ Amazing service experience, mister solis took great care of me and all my needs. ”
“ Fantastic to deal with. They didn’t push the deal and worked with us. We will recommend them to family and friends. ”
“ I had a great experience! I feel like I got a great deal on a reliable car. My original sales man had a death in the family, and wasn’t there the day I was hoping to buy a car. One of his co-workers helped me, but his co-worker I think needed a bit more training. For example, when I asked a question about what the service department sees the most of with this vehicle he replied “how would I know? I’m not the service department.” I left that day without a car. My original salesman called me and I had an amazing experience from then on out. If I asked something he didn’t know, he went and asked someone else to get the information for me. He was awesome! I saw the coolest female ever for financing! I want to be friends with her! I shouldn’t need a car anytime soon, but I will 100% send people their way. ”
“ I something wrong with a tire pressure sensor that was repaired and all the other tires checked as well. Great service and friendly people! ”
“ Excellent customer service. Always a pleasure doing business there. I don’t own a Honda but love the service they provide to all my vehicles. ”
“ Had a great experience trading our car in for a new Honda. Every person we interacted with was friendly and knowledgeable. Will definitely recommend to others that are in search of a new car! ”
“ I recently purchased a Honda Accord from Pohanka Honda of Fredericksburg, and the entire experience exceeded my expectations. From the moment I walked in, I was treated with professionalism, respect, and genuine care. My salesperson, Ernest Afriyie, was incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and helpful throughout the entire process. He took the time to answer all of my questions, explain my options, and made sure I felt comfortable and confident with my decision. There was never any pressure, just outstanding customer service. He is also very talented in car sales! (number 3 in the nation)!! The Finance Manager, Farhad Abazari, was equally amazing. He made the financing process smooth, straightforward, and stress-free. He explained everything clearly, worked hard to find the best options for me, and ensured I understood every step before signing. He was also very determined to make sure that I got the best deal on my car! He showed several signs that he actually cared about me as a person, rather than just a wallet. Abazari is a super kind and caring man! Thanks to the excellent teamwork between the sales and finance departments, I drove away in my new Honda Accord feeling excited and completely satisfied with my purchase. If you’re looking for a dealership that truly values its customers and provides a first-class car-buying experience, I highly recommend Pohanka Honda of Fredericksburg. Thank you for making this such a positive and memorable experience! ”
“ Sean Bennett provided awesome service. He explained in detail of the issues regarding my brakes. He was not only very knowledgeable but also assisted in finding coupons for my service making it affordable since service was over $1000 which provided me relief and makes me definitely want to come back for all my future service. ”
“ Mr Wesley Robinson made everything easy and was extremely helpful . highly recommended ”
“ Recently moved to the area and needed to get my car serviced before a trip, so this was my first visit and from the moment I pulled up to the moment I left, the customer service was amazing. My service advisor, Dixie, was phenomenal. She made magic happen and I couldn’t be more grateful. Would recommend. ”
“ Just got 2026 Honda accord from them . If any body looking to buy a new or used car ask for Ashar he will take care of you and find you what you looking. Great people great service ”
“ Dante Navarro was my salesman and he was absolutely amazing. I also dealt with Nate in finance. Both of them worked SO very hard to make a deal work for me that was affordable for my budget. I was able to get a brand new Honda HRV. I feel great that I have a safe and reliable vehicle thanks to the hard work and dedication of these two and the Management at this company. Please, please if you need help finding a car go to Pohanka Honda and ask for Dante! ”
“ Over all experience is good . Well responsive staffs and lot of benefits ”
“ Excellent sales and finance team that made the purchase go smoothly. ”
“ Dixie at Pohanka Honda of Fredericksburg is the best! I always text her before I go to make sure she's working. She is the best service advisor that I have dealt with and she always goes the extra mile for me. Dixie, you are greatly appreciated! Thank you so much! ”
“ I believe the car was repaired as expected, but I thought they may want to delight their customer by making sure the car was clean and vacuumed. Although I spent over $2300.00, neither the windows were cleaned, vacuumed, nor the car washed. Maybe I was expecting too much, but when I have my oil changed, they normally vacuum and wash the car windows, when spending just over a $100.00. ☹️ ”
“ I stopped by while comparing lease options for a Honda Accord. I asked for the same basic lease structure that two other Honda dealerships had already provided me which was a printed worksheet with the money factor, residual, selling price, and fees. Instead, the salesperson hand‑wrote the MF and residuals, only showed me numbers for one trim even though I requested two, and seemed shocked when I asked for the Money factor. When I asked for the printed breakdown that other Honda dealers gave me, I was told it “couldn’t be provided,” which didn’t match my experience elsewhere. The interaction felt disorganized and left me questioning the transparency of their sales process. ”
1. 280 hp @ 6000 rpm (SAE net).
2. 262 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm (SAE net).
3. Maximum towing capacity for AWD models is 5,000 lbs. Maximum towing capacity for 2WD models is 3,500 lbs (Pilot). Towing requires the addition of the Honda accessory towing kit, trailer harness and hitch ball. Please see your Honda dealer for details.
4. 20 city/27 highway/23 combined mpg rating for 2WD trims. 19 city/26 highway/22 combined mpg rating for AWD trims. Based on 2021 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions and other factors.
5. 18 city/24 highway/21 combined mpg rating. Based on 2021 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions and other factors.
6. Based on SAE J1100 cargo volume measurement standard plus, where applicable, floor space between seating rows and seats in their forward-most and upright position.




“ Fardin was very helpful and professional throughout the entire process. He made everything smooth and easy, answered my questions clearly, and ensured I had a great experience. I really appreciate his excellent customer service and would gladly recommend him to others. ”