2026 Honda Ridgeline Bed Dimensions, Payload, and More

January 22nd, 2026 by

The 2026 Honda Ridgeline combines the practicality of a pickup with the easy handling of an SUV, making it an excellent choice for many Marion motorists. If you are considering this innovative vehicle, you may be wondering how its specifications compare to other trucks on the market. Below, we explain everything you need to know about the Honda Ridgeline’s bed size, towing and payload capacities, and other truck-like features to help you make an informed decision about this midsize pickup.

2026 Honda Ridgeline Bed Dimensions: Complete Measurements

side view of a 2026 Honda Ridgeline truck parked at the Ike Honda dealership in Marion, IL

Every 2026 Honda Ridgeline features a 5.3-foot bed, which is longer than most modern crew-cab trucks. The bed is also 5 feet wide, or 4.2 feet between the wheel wells, and 1.4 feet deep. These dimensions provide an impressive total cargo volume of 33.9 cubic feet.

2026 Honda Ridgeline Payload Capacity

A vehicle’s payload capacity refers to the maximum amount of weight that it can safely carry. For trucks like the Honda Ridgeline, the payload includes the combined weight of items in the bed and the cabin.

The 2026 Honda Ridgeline’s payload capacity varies slightly by trim level due to differences in the curb weight and equipment. The entry-level Sport trim offers the highest maximum payload, with capacity decreasing slightly on higher trims. Payload capacities for each 2026 Honda Ridgeline trim are:

  • Sport: 1,583 pounds
  • RTL: 1,544 pounds
  • TrailSport: 1,521 pounds
  • Black Edition: 1,509 pounds

The Ridgeline’s payload capacity is competitive for a crew-cab truck. Considering the average adult weighs between 150 and 200 pounds, you can still transport small loads in the bed of the truck with your family or a few workmates. However, when hauling heavier materials such as firewood or gravel, traveling with fewer passengers is recommended so you don’t exceed the payload capacity.

Tailgate Dynamic-Load Capacity

The Ridgeline’s tailgate offers a dynamic-load capacity of 300 pounds. This means it can safely support the weight of large items, such as ATVs or bikes, while traveling to popular nearby recreational spots like Little Egypt Off Road or Williams Hill Pass.

Towing Capacity and Capabilities

The 2026 Ridgeline comes standard with an integrated trailer hitch and a 7-pin connector for easy towing. Combined with its 280-horsepower V-6 engine and standard all-wheel-drive system, these features allow the Ridgeline to tow up to 5,000 pounds. This towing capacity is well suited for pulling a small boat to Grassy Lake or a compact tent camper to Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge.

In-Bed Trunk: Unique Storage Feature

A lockable 7.3-cubic-foot trunk is built into the floor of the Ridgeline’s bed, providing secure and discreet storage. The wide opening makes it easy to store bulky items inside, such as golf bags or an 82-quart cooler.

The trunk can also function as a cooler, thanks to an integrated drain plug that allows melted ice to drain away. This design also makes it ideal for wet swimwear or rain-soaked clothing. Honda stores the compact spare tire on a sliding tray inside the trunk, but it can be relocated to the bed wall if you prefer to reclaim additional lockable storage space and increase your cargo capacity.

You can access the in-bed trunk using the physical key fob or the keyless remote. For added safety, an emergency release located on the underside of the lid allows the trunk to be opened from the inside. A switch inside the glove compartment can also deactivate the locking mechanism.

Ridgeline Bed Features and Utility

Honda designed the Ridgeline’s bed with versatility in mind for both work and recreation. Its lay-flat design minimizes wheel-well intrusion, maximizing usable floor space and making it easier to carry items such as sheets of plywood or trail bikes.

The bed floor and lockable trunk are made from a durable, UV-stable material that resists fading and scratches, eliminating the need for a traditional bed liner when loads are properly supported. Fully boxed, high-strength steel crossmembers reinforce the underside of the bed, allowing you to take full advantage of its generous capacity. Additional bed features for the 2026 Honda Ridgeline include:

  • Dual-action tailgate: Lower it like a traditional tailgate or swing it open like a door for easier access, regardless of your parking position
  • Bed lighting on every trim: Standard bulbs are included, with LED lighting optional on most trims and standard on the Black Edition
  • Eight tie-down points: Each anchor point supports up to 350 pounds
  • Covered side pocket: Provides secure storage for small items and houses the Black Edition’s power outlet
  • Power outlet: Standard on the Black Edition and optional on lower trims, offering 150 watts when stationary and 400 watts with the engine running
  • Optional hard truck-bed cover: Pairs with the lockable tailgate to help secure valuable cargo

Is the 2026 Ridgeline Bed Size Right for Your Needs?

The 2026 Ridgeline’s short, lay-flat bed offers impressive usability for a crew-cab truck and meets the needs of many Marion motorists. However, it may not provide enough space for tradespeople or drivers who are accustomed to full-size pickups.

Carefully consider your hauling and towing requirements and contact us at Ike Honda for personalized recommendations. We can introduce you to the new Honda Ridgeline and other quality truck models, arrange test drives, and answer any questions you may have about these vehicles or our trade-in and finance deals. At Ike Honda, we are committed to helping you choose the right vehicle for your lifestyle and needs.