Ridgeline is an innovative mid-size sport utility truck from Honda factory. The four-door pickup truck uses unibody architecture, and boasts four-wheel independent suspension. The four-wheel independent suspension, coupled with unibody design provides excellent handling. Ever since its introduction in 2005, Ridgeline has developed rivalry with many vehicles in its segment. Chevrolet Colorado, Nissan Frontier, Toyota Tacoma, Ford Explorer Sport Trac and Mitsubishi Raider have been the closest competitors of Honda Ridgeline. Below is a comparison between 2009 Honda Ridgeline and one of its top rivals, 2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac:

Utility
Ford Explorer Sport Trac boasts a larger trunk, and thus it has the capacity to accommodate larger objects than Honda Ridgeline. However, both the trucks can accommodate almost same number of passengers. In terms of hauling capacity, there is no clear winner between the two.

Performance
Ford Explorer Sport Trac feels a little slow, as compared to Ridgeline because of its high horsepower-to-weight ratio.

Dimensions
The tank of Ford Explorer Sport Trac is bit bigger than that of Ridgeline. However, both compete for the same parking spaces.

Convenience
You will have to visit gas station more often with Ridgeline, as compared to Explorer Sport Trac.

Cost
In terms of MSRP, both the trucks cost almost same. But, in terms of gas mileage, Ridgeline is a little more economical than Ford Explorer Sport Trac.

Handling
Ridgeline and Explorer Sport Trac have approximately similar tires. With their comparable turning circles, both handle about the same into and out of tight spots.

Drivetrain
Ford Explorer Sport Trac boasts a bigger engine than Honda Ridgeline. Usually, smaller engines get better gas mileage, however, a smaller engine has to work a little harder. Torque is roughly equivalent to acceleration, and in this respect, Ridgeline is not much more powerful than Ford Explorer Sport Trac.

Comfort
Honda Ridgeline offers extra head room in its front cabin, as compared to Ford Explorer Sport Trac. On the other hand, Ford Explorer Sport Trac provides a bit more head as well as leg-room in the rear cabin than Honda Ridgeline.