2018 Honda Ridgeline RT 3.5L i-VTEC V6 4x2 Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs (Verified Specs)
The 2018 Honda Ridgeline RT 3.5L i-VTEC V6 4x2 has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs, a payload rating of 1,584 lbs, a gross combined weight rating (GCWR) of 9,046 lbs, and a maximum tongue weight of 350 lbs. It uses a Class III receiver hitch when properly equipped.
All 2018 trims compared
| Trim | Max Tow | Payload | GCWR | Tongue | Hitch |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RT 3.5L i-VTEC V6 4x2 | 3,500 lbs | 1,584 lbs | 9,046 lbs | 350 lbs | III |
| Sport 3.5L i-VTEC V6 4x4 | 5,000 lbs | 1,499 lbs | 11,000 lbs | 500 lbs | IV |
| Black Edition 3.5L i-VTEC V6 4x4 | 5,000 lbs | 1,451 lbs | 11,000 lbs | 500 lbs | IV |
What can the 2018 Honda Ridgeline RT 3.5L i-VTEC V6 4x2 tow?
With its 3,500 lbs max tow rating, the 2018 Honda Ridgeline RT 3.5L i-VTEC V6 4x2 can pull these typical trailer types when properly equipped:
- Pop-up tent campers (typically 1,000–3,000 lbs)
Required equipment
For maximum capacity towing on the 2018 Honda Ridgeline RT 3.5L i-VTEC V6 4x2 you need: a Class III receiver hitch, a proportional brake controller (legally required on trailers over 3,000 lbs in most US states), trailer wiring harness, and — for trailers above 5,000 lbs — a weight-distribution hitch.
5 common towing mistakes with the Honda Ridgeline
- Loading the trailer past the manufacturer's max tow rating without verifying GCWR margin
- Ignoring tongue weight: keep it 10–15% of total trailer weight or the trailer will sway
- Skipping a brake controller on trailers over 3,000 lbs — most US states require trailer brakes above this weight
- Forgetting to redistribute payload from cargo when carrying passengers; payload includes occupants
- Running stock tires beyond their D/E load rating when towing near the max — upgrade if towing weekly
Compare with similar vehicles
Frequently asked questions
What is the towing capacity of a 2018 Honda Ridgeline RT 3.5L i-VTEC V6 4x2? ▾
The 2018 Honda Ridgeline RT 3.5L i-VTEC V6 4x2 has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs when properly equipped with the manufacturer's tow package.
Can a 2018 Honda Ridgeline tow a 30-foot travel trailer? ▾
Marginal. A 30-foot travel trailer typically weighs 7,500–9,000 lbs loaded, which exceeds this trim's 3,500 lbs rating. Choose a higher-capacity trim or a shorter trailer.
Can a 2018 Honda Ridgeline tow a fifth-wheel? ▾
Not recommended. Most fifth-wheels start at 8,000 lbs and exceed this trim's 3,500 lbs capacity. Step up to a heavy-duty model.
What hitch class does the 2018 Honda Ridgeline use? ▾
The 2018 Honda Ridgeline RT 3.5L i-VTEC V6 4x2 is rated for a Class III receiver hitch.
What is the payload of the 2018 Honda Ridgeline RT 3.5L i-VTEC V6 4x2? ▾
Payload is rated at 1,584 lbs. Remember payload includes passengers, cargo, hitch tongue weight, and any aftermarket equipment.
What is GCWR and why does it matter? ▾
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) is the max combined weight of the loaded vehicle and trailer. The 2018 Honda Ridgeline RT 3.5L i-VTEC V6 4x2 is rated at 9,046 lbs. Exceeding GCWR is a leading cause of brake and transmission failure.
Do I need a weight-distribution hitch? ▾
Not required for typical loads on this trim, but recommended above 5,000 lbs trailer weight or 500 lbs tongue weight.
Do I need a brake controller for this trim? ▾
Yes, when towing a trailer over 3,000 lbs (most US states legally require trailer brakes above this weight). The 2018 Honda Ridgeline typically supports a proportional integrated brake controller — confirm trim availability.
What is tongue weight on the 2018 Honda Ridgeline RT 3.5L i-VTEC V6 4x2? ▾
Maximum tongue weight is 350 lbs (industry-standard 10% of max tow rating). Aim for 10–15% of actual trailer weight to avoid sway.
Is the 2018 Honda Ridgeline better than its competitors for towing? ▾
Within its capacity bracket, the 2018 Honda Ridgeline RT 3.5L i-VTEC V6 4x2 is competitive at 3,500 lbs. See the "Compare with" section below for direct comparisons against same-class alternatives.