A comparability between two pickup truck fashions serves as the main focus: one, a full-size truck recognized for its ruggedness and towing capability, the opposite, a mid-size truck with unibody development emphasizing consolation and gasoline effectivity. Understanding the distinctions between these automobiles requires evaluating their specs, capabilities, and supposed use instances. For instance, customers needing to haul heavy hundreds frequently would possibly prioritize one mannequin’s larger towing capability.
The importance of this comparability lies in offering potential consumers with the knowledge essential to make an knowledgeable resolution primarily based on their particular wants and priorities. Traditionally, the full-size truck phase has catered to customers requiring strong efficiency, whereas the mid-size phase has attracted these in search of a stability of utility and on a regular basis drivability. This differentiation highlights the significance of fastidiously contemplating particular person necessities earlier than choosing a automobile.
This evaluation will delve into key areas of comparability, together with engine efficiency, towing and payload capability, inside options, security know-how, and general worth proposition. By analyzing these points, a clearer image will emerge, facilitating a extra goal evaluation of every mannequin’s strengths and weaknesses.
1. Towing Capability
Towing capability represents a essential differentiating issue when evaluating the Toyota Tundra and Honda Ridgeline. This specification, measured in kilos, signifies the utmost weight a automobile can safely and successfully tow. The Tundra, constructed on a body-on-frame chassis, sometimes presents considerably larger towing capacities than the Ridgeline, which makes use of a unibody development. The direct consequence is that the Tundra is healthier suited to duties reminiscent of hauling giant trailers, boats, or heavy tools. For instance, a development firm needing to move supplies to job websites would seemingly discover the Tundra’s larger towing capability important, whereas a person towing a small leisure boat would possibly discover the Ridgeline enough.
The variance in towing capability stems from variations in design and engineering. The Tundra’s strong body, highly effective engine choices, and heavy-duty suspension elements contribute to its elevated functionality. Conversely, the Ridgeline’s unibody development and unbiased rear suspension prioritize trip consolation and dealing with, options that inherently restrict its most towing capability. Contemplate a landscaping enterprise: whereas the Tundra might simply tow a heavy-duty trailer loaded with tools and provides, the Ridgeline would possibly wrestle with related hundreds, probably resulting in decreased efficiency, elevated put on and tear, and compromised security.
Finally, understanding the towing capability distinction between the Tundra and Ridgeline is paramount for potential consumers. It dictates the forms of duties every automobile can successfully carry out. Failing to precisely assess towing necessities can lead to choosing a automobile that’s both underpowered for the supposed use or unnecessarily over-engineered, resulting in larger prices and compromised gasoline effectivity. Due to this fact, an intensive analysis of towing wants is essential for making an knowledgeable buy resolution.
2. Engine Efficiency
Engine efficiency stands as a vital determinant when evaluating the Toyota Tundra and Honda Ridgeline. The facility output, responsiveness, and general traits of every automobile’s engine considerably impression its functionality and suitability for numerous duties.
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Horsepower and Torque
The Tundra, usually outfitted with bigger displacement engines, usually boasts larger horsepower and torque figures in comparison with the Ridgeline. Horsepower dictates the automobile’s means to keep up pace beneath load, whereas torque determines its acceleration and pulling energy. For example, when towing a heavy trailer uphill, the Tundra’s engine is probably going to supply a extra easy and assured expertise because of its larger torque output. Conversely, the Ridgeline might require extra effort and lead to decreased pace.
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Engine Kind and Configuration
The Tundra sometimes contains a V8 engine, recognized for its strong energy supply and sturdiness. The Ridgeline generally employs a V6 engine, prioritizing gasoline effectivity and easy operation. This elementary distinction in engine configuration contributes to distinct driving experiences. A V8 engine within the Tundra presents a uncooked, highly effective really feel, whereas the V6 within the Ridgeline gives a extra refined and responsive efficiency, significantly at decrease speeds. These components affect suitability for various driving circumstances.
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Transmission Traits
The transmission paired with every engine additional shapes the driving expertise. The Tundra’s transmission is usually designed to deal with excessive torque hundreds related to towing and hauling. The Ridgeline’s transmission is usually tuned for smoother shifts and optimized gasoline economic system. A Tundra utilizing older transmission know-how might really feel much less refined in comparison with the Ridgeline, which normally advantages from a extra fashionable and complex transmission system. This distinction in transmission tuning impacts acceleration, gasoline effectivity, and general driving enjoyment.
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Gasoline Effectivity Issues
Whereas engine efficiency is significant, gasoline effectivity is equally essential, significantly for on a regular basis use. The Ridgeline, with its smaller V6 engine and unibody development, usually achieves higher gasoline economic system in comparison with the Tundra. A contractor who makes use of their automobile every day would possibly prioritize the gasoline effectivity of the Honda Ridgeline, nevertheless, their work would possibly require the stronger energy from a Toyota Tundra.
These sides collectively illustrate the profound impression of engine efficiency on the general driving expertise and suitability of the Tundra and Ridgeline. The selection between these automobiles relies upon considerably on the supposed use and priorities of the customer. Whereas the Tundra excels in uncooked energy and towing capability, the Ridgeline presents a extra balanced strategy, prioritizing gasoline effectivity and on a regular basis usability. Due to this fact, a cautious consideration of particular person wants is crucial for making an knowledgeable resolution.
3. Gasoline Effectivity
Gasoline effectivity represents a big consideration for potential consumers evaluating the Toyota Tundra and Honda Ridgeline. The price of gasoline, environmental issues, and the frequency of auto use all contribute to the significance of this issue. The contrasting designs and supposed functions of those automobiles lead to notable variations in gasoline consumption.
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Engine Displacement and Configuration
The Toyota Tundra, sometimes outfitted with a bigger displacement V8 engine, usually displays decrease gasoline economic system in comparison with the Honda Ridgeline, which contains a V6 engine. Bigger engines devour extra gasoline to supply larger energy output. For instance, the Tundra’s V8 might present ample energy for towing and hauling, however this functionality comes on the expense of elevated gasoline consumption. Conversely, the Ridgeline’s V6 is designed to stability energy and effectivity, leading to higher mileage throughout on a regular basis driving.
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Automobile Weight and Aerodynamics
The Tundra, being a full-size truck with a body-on-frame development, is inherently heavier and fewer aerodynamic than the Ridgeline, which makes use of a lighter unibody design. Elevated weight and poor aerodynamics contribute to larger gasoline consumption. Contemplate a state of affairs the place each vehicles are pushed on the freeway: the Tundra would require extra vitality to beat air resistance and preserve pace, resulting in decrease gasoline economic system. The Ridgeline, with its extra streamlined design and lighter weight, will encounter much less resistance and devour much less gasoline.
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Driving Situations and Utilization Patterns
Gasoline effectivity can be considerably influenced by driving circumstances and the way the automobile is used. Frequent towing or hauling with the Tundra will drastically scale back its gasoline economic system, whereas the Ridgeline, not designed for heavy-duty duties, might expertise much less of a discount beneath related circumstances. Metropolis driving, characterised by stop-and-go visitors, tends to lower gasoline effectivity for each automobiles, however the Tundra’s bigger engine will seemingly endure a better penalty. For instance, a contractor who incessantly tows tools with the Tundra will expertise considerably decrease gasoline economic system in comparison with a person utilizing the Ridgeline primarily for commuting.
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Expertise and Gasoline-Saving Options
Fashionable know-how performs a job in enhancing gasoline effectivity. Some newer fashions of each the Tundra and Ridgeline might incorporate options like cylinder deactivation, start-stop programs, and optimized transmissions to preserve gasoline. Nonetheless, because of its design focus and goal buyer base, the Honda Ridgeline tends to combine extra fuel-saving applied sciences as a core design focus than does the Toyota Tundra. Due to this fact, even with technological developments, the Ridgeline usually retains a gasoline economic system benefit over the Tundra.
In abstract, gasoline effectivity is a essential differentiator between the Toyota Tundra and Honda Ridgeline. The Tundra, with its bigger engine and strong design, prioritizes energy and functionality over gasoline economic system. The Ridgeline, then again, emphasizes a stability between efficiency and effectivity, leading to higher mileage for on a regular basis driving. The selection between these automobiles relies upon largely on the customer’s priorities and supposed use, as the price of gasoline can considerably impression the general possession expertise.
4. Mattress Dimension
Mattress measurement represents a big level of divergence between the Toyota Tundra and Honda Ridgeline, influencing their respective utility and suitability for numerous duties. As a essential ingredient of a pickup truck, mattress measurement instantly impacts the quantity and kind of cargo that may be accommodated. The Tundra, being a full-size truck, usually presents an extended and wider mattress in comparison with the Ridgeline. This elevated capability is a direct consequence of the Tundra’s design, which prioritizes hauling and payload capabilities. For example, a contractor needing to move a number of sheets of drywall or lumber would seemingly require the bigger mattress of the Tundra. The Ridgeline, designed with a deal with passenger consolation and on a regular basis usability, contains a shorter mattress size, which can restrict its means to hold cumbersome or prolonged gadgets. This distinction in mattress measurement underscores the basically totally different design philosophies guiding the creation of every automobile.
The impression of mattress measurement extends past merely the quantity of cargo. The configuration and out there options inside the mattress additionally fluctuate between the 2 fashions. The Tundra usually presents options reminiscent of tie-down factors, mattress liners, and out there energy retailers, all of which improve its utility for work-related duties. The Ridgeline, with its distinctive in-bed trunk, gives safe and weatherproof storage, a characteristic not discovered on the Tundra. Contemplate a tenting state of affairs: the Ridgeline’s in-bed trunk might function a handy and safe location for storing delicate tools, whereas the Tundra’s bigger mattress might accommodate cumbersome tenting gear. The selection of mattress measurement and options, due to this fact, instantly influences the automobile’s suitability for particular purposes and life.
In conclusion, mattress measurement is a key issue differentiating the Toyota Tundra and Honda Ridgeline. The Tundra’s bigger mattress caters to customers requiring most hauling capability, whereas the Ridgeline’s shorter mattress and in-bed trunk prioritize comfort and safe storage. Understanding these variations is essential for potential consumers, because it instantly impacts the automobile’s means to satisfy their particular wants. The choice course of ought to contain a cautious evaluation of typical cargo necessities, making certain that the chosen automobile gives satisfactory area and options to accommodate supposed utilization eventualities. This consideration is key to making sure satisfaction and optimizing the utility of the chosen pickup truck.
5. Experience Consolation
Experience consolation is an important differentiating issue between the Toyota Tundra and Honda Ridgeline, instantly impacting the driving expertise and general satisfaction of householders. The distinct chassis designs of those trucksbody-on-frame for the Tundra and unibody for the Ridgelinesignificantly affect trip high quality. Understanding the nuances of every automobile’s trip traits is crucial for potential consumers to align their buy with their particular wants and expectations.
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Suspension System
The suspension system performs a pivotal position in absorbing street imperfections and offering a easy trip. The Tundra sometimes employs a conventional leaf spring suspension within the rear, which is strong and able to dealing with heavy hundreds, however can lead to a stiffer trip, significantly when the mattress is empty. The Ridgeline makes use of an unbiased rear suspension (IRS), which permits every wheel to react independently to bumps and dips, offering a extra managed and cozy trip, particularly on uneven surfaces. For example, driving over a pothole reveals the Tundra’s tendency to transmit extra jarring impacts to the cabin in comparison with the Ridgeline’s extra dampened response.
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Chassis Building
The Tundra’s body-on-frame development, the place the physique and body are separate entities, contributes to its sturdiness and towing capability however may introduce extra vibrations and physique roll. The Ridgeline’s unibody development, the place the physique and body are built-in, gives better rigidity and reduces physique flex, leading to a quieter and extra secure trip. Contemplate an extended freeway journey: the Ridgeline’s unibody construction minimizes street noise and vibrations, making a extra nice and fewer fatiguing driving expertise in comparison with the Tundra’s body-on-frame setup.
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Seating and Cabin Design
The design and supplies used within the seating and cabin considerably contribute to perceived trip consolation. The Tundra, whereas usually spacious, might prioritize ruggedness over luxurious supplies, probably resulting in much less comfy seating for prolonged intervals. The Ridgeline sometimes emphasizes consolation, incorporating softer supplies, supportive seat designs, and options like lumbar assist. A protracted commute exemplifies this distinction: the Ridgeline’s ergonomic seating and well-damped cabin can present superior consolation in comparison with the Tundra’s probably firmer seats and extra utilitarian inside.
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Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH)
NVH ranges play a essential position in general trip consolation. The Tundra, with its extra strong drivetrain and conventional development, might exhibit larger ranges of street noise, engine noise, and vibrations in comparison with the Ridgeline. The Ridgeline, engineered for a quieter and extra refined expertise, incorporates sound-deadening supplies and superior insulation strategies to attenuate NVH. For instance, throughout acceleration, the Tundra’s engine might produce a extra pronounced roar, whereas the Ridgeline’s engine stays quieter and fewer intrusive, contributing to a extra serene cabin atmosphere.
Finally, trip consolation emerges as a key differentiator within the Toyota Tundra versus Honda Ridgeline comparability. The Tundra, designed for heavy-duty duties, usually compromises on trip refinement in favor of functionality. Conversely, the Ridgeline prioritizes trip consolation and on a regular basis usability, making it a extra interesting selection for many who worth a easy and quiet driving expertise. Potential consumers ought to fastidiously think about their priorities and driving habits to find out which automobile finest aligns with their trip consolation expectations.
6. Cabin Area
Cabin area constitutes a essential ingredient within the analysis of the Toyota Tundra versus Honda Ridgeline. The size and structure of the passenger compartment instantly affect consolation, utility, and general suitability for numerous functions. The Tundra, as a full-size truck, usually gives better cabin quantity in comparison with the Ridgeline, which occupies the mid-size phase. This distinction manifests in elevated legroom, headroom, and shoulder room for each entrance and rear passengers. For instance, a development crew frequently transporting a number of staff would seemingly discover the Tundra’s extra spacious cabin preferable. In distinction, a household prioritizing ease of parking and maneuverability would possibly discover the Ridgeline’s barely smaller cabin satisfactory.
The configuration of the cabin additionally influences its performance. The Tundra usually presents numerous cab configurations, together with common cab, double cab, and crew cab, permitting consumers to prioritize cargo capability or passenger area. The Ridgeline, sometimes out there in a single crew cab configuration, prioritizes passenger consolation and comfort. Sensible purposes of this distinction embrace a supply driver selecting the Tundra’s common cab for optimum mattress size, or a household choosing the Ridgeline for its comfy and spacious rear seating. Moreover, storage options inside the cabin contribute to its usability. The Tundra might supply bigger door pockets and a extra expansive middle console, whereas the Ridgeline might characteristic under-seat storage compartments or a extra refined dashboard structure. These components collectively affect the practicality and comfort of the cabin atmosphere.
In abstract, cabin area represents a key space of differentiation between the Toyota Tundra and Honda Ridgeline. The Tundra’s bigger dimensions usually translate to better passenger quantity and a wider vary of cab configurations. The Ridgeline, whereas extra compact, prioritizes passenger consolation and inside refinement. Understanding these variations is essential for aligning automobile selection with particular wants and priorities. The problem lies in balancing cabin area with different components reminiscent of gasoline economic system, maneuverability, and supposed use. Finally, the perfect selection is determined by an intensive evaluation of particular person necessities and preferences.
7. Off-Highway Functionality
Off-road functionality is a big differentiator when evaluating the Toyota Tundra and Honda Ridgeline. The Tundra, engineered as a conventional full-size truck with a body-on-frame development, displays inherently superior off-road prowess because of its strong design and out there options. Conversely, the Ridgeline, constructed on a unibody platform prioritizing on-road consolation and dealing with, demonstrates limitations in demanding off-road circumstances. The impression of this distinction is clear in eventualities involving uneven terrain, steep inclines, and difficult obstacles. For example, navigating a rocky path necessitates the Tundra’s larger floor clearance, four-wheel-drive system, and sturdy suspension elements, whereas the Ridgeline’s decrease floor clearance and fewer strong suspension might result in undercarriage harm or compromised traction. The significance of off-road functionality, due to this fact, turns into paramount for people requiring a automobile able to traversing unpaved roads or partaking in leisure off-roading actions.
The Tundra’s enhanced off-road means stems from design selections geared towards ruggedness and sturdiness. Obtainable options reminiscent of skid plates, locking differentials, and specialised off-road suspension programs additional increase its functionality in difficult environments. A sensible software of those options could be noticed in conditions reminiscent of accessing distant work websites, navigating flooded areas, or traversing snowy mountain passes. In distinction, the Ridgeline’s unbiased rear suspension, whereas useful for on-road dealing with, limits its articulation and floor clearance, hindering its efficiency on uneven terrain. Contemplate a forest ranger needing to entry distant areas for patrols: the Tundra’s off-road options are important for safely and successfully navigating difficult terrain, whereas the Ridgeline might show much less appropriate because of its limitations.
In abstract, the connection between off-road functionality and the Toyota Tundra versus Honda Ridgeline comparability is essential for potential consumers. The Tundra’s strong design and out there off-road options present a definite benefit in difficult environments. The Ridgeline, prioritizing on-road consolation, displays limitations in demanding off-road circumstances. The selection between these automobiles hinges on the customer’s particular wants and priorities. People requiring a automobile for frequent off-road use ought to prioritize the Tundra’s superior capabilities, whereas these primarily centered on on-road driving and luxury might discover the Ridgeline a extra appropriate choice. The problem lies in precisely assessing supposed utilization eventualities to make sure that the chosen automobile aligns with sensible necessities and efficiency expectations.
8. Resale Worth
Resale worth constitutes a big issue within the whole price of possession when contemplating the Toyota Tundra versus Honda Ridgeline. Depreciation, the lower in a automobile’s worth over time, varies between these fashions, impacting long-term monetary implications. The Tundra, usually acknowledged for its sturdiness and reliability, usually retains the next share of its authentic worth in comparison with the Ridgeline. This may be attributed to the Tundra’s popularity, strong development, and powerful demand within the used truck market. A sensible instance is noticed when evaluating trade-in values after 5 years of possession; the Tundra sometimes instructions the next worth, reflecting its better-preserved worth. Due to this fact, the Tundra’s traditionally superior resale worth partially offsets its larger preliminary buy worth and probably decrease gasoline economic system in comparison with the Ridgeline.
Market developments, mannequin 12 months, trim degree, and automobile situation considerably affect resale values for each the Tundra and Ridgeline. Demand for full-size vehicles, particularly these with confirmed reliability, usually helps the Tundra’s excessive resale figures. Restricted availability of sure Tundra configurations or particular mannequin years can additional drive up used costs. Conversely, the Ridgeline’s resale worth advantages from its enchantment to consumers in search of a extra comfy and fuel-efficient truck. Upkeep information and general situation instantly have an effect on the appraised worth of each automobiles at resale. Diligent upkeep and cautious use can mitigate depreciation and maximize the return on funding. A well-maintained Tundra or Ridgeline will fetch the next worth than a uncared for counterpart.
In conclusion, resale worth represents a essential consideration within the Toyota Tundra versus Honda Ridgeline analysis. The Tundra’s traditionally stronger resale worth is a noteworthy profit that may scale back the general price of possession. Whereas preliminary buy worth and different components have to be weighed, the long-term monetary benefit conferred by superior resale worth warrants cautious consideration. Potential consumers ought to analysis present market developments and think about the long-term monetary implications of depreciation when making their buy resolution. Although resale values are topic to vary, understanding these tendencies permits for a extra financially knowledgeable automotive funding.
Regularly Requested Questions
The next addresses frequent inquiries relating to the distinctions between the Toyota Tundra and Honda Ridgeline, providing readability to potential consumers.
Query 1: What’s the main distinction in development between the Toyota Tundra and Honda Ridgeline?
The Toyota Tundra makes use of body-on-frame development, whereas the Honda Ridgeline employs a unibody design. This elementary distinction influences trip high quality, sturdiness, and towing capability.
Query 2: Which automobile presents superior towing capability?
The Toyota Tundra usually presents the next towing capability in comparison with the Honda Ridgeline. Particular figures fluctuate by mannequin 12 months and configuration; seek the advice of official specs for correct knowledge.
Query 3: How does gasoline economic system evaluate between the 2 fashions?
The Honda Ridgeline sometimes achieves higher gasoline economic system than the Toyota Tundra. That is primarily because of its smaller engine and lighter unibody development.
Query 4: Which truck is healthier suited to off-road driving?
The Toyota Tundra is usually higher suited to off-road driving because of its larger floor clearance, strong suspension, and out there four-wheel-drive programs. Nonetheless, its a succesful automobile.
Query 5: Does one automobile retain its worth higher over time?
Traditionally, the Toyota Tundra has demonstrated robust resale worth. Market circumstances and automobile situation, although, impression depreciation charges.
Query 6: Which truck prioritizes trip consolation?
The Honda Ridgeline usually presents a extra comfy trip in comparison with the Toyota Tundra. Its unbiased rear suspension and unibody development contribute to smoother dealing with and decreased street noise.
These responses are supposed to supply a primary understanding. Thorough analysis and take a look at driving are advisable earlier than making a purchase order resolution.
Subsequent, we are going to summarize the important thing concerns when selecting between these fashions.
Key Issues
Cautious analysis is paramount when selecting between these pickup vehicles. Matching automobile traits to particular wants is crucial for optimum satisfaction.
Tip 1: Assess Towing Necessities. Precisely estimate most towing wants. The Tundra excels in heavy-duty towing, whereas the Ridgeline’s capabilities are comparatively decrease. Exceeding advisable towing capacities compromises security and automobile longevity.
Tip 2: Prioritize Gasoline Effectivity Realistically. Acknowledge the trade-offs between energy and gasoline economic system. The Ridgeline presents higher mileage for every day commuting. The Tundra’s bigger engine consumes extra gasoline, particularly when towing.
Tip 3: Consider Mattress Dimension Primarily based on Cargo Wants. Contemplate the size and kind of cargo incessantly transported. The Tundra’s bigger mattress accommodates cumbersome gadgets, whereas the Ridgeline’s mattress and in-bed trunk supply distinctive utility.
Tip 4: Steadiness Experience Consolation with Meant Use. Acknowledge the variations in trip high quality. The Ridgeline’s unibody development gives a extra comfy on-road expertise. The Tundra’s body-on-frame design prioritizes sturdiness, however can compromise trip consolation.
Tip 5: Contemplate Lengthy-Time period Resale Worth Implications. Analysis historic resale values for each fashions. The Tundra tends to retain worth higher. Resale worth impacts general price of possession.
Tip 6: Completely Study Inside Area Necessities. Assess passenger quantity wants. The Tundra normally presents extra cabin area, significantly in crew cab configurations. Contemplate what number of passengers will frequently occupy the automobile.
Tip 7: Consider Off-Highway Driving Wants. Actually assess typical driving circumstances. The Tundra’s strong design fits off-road environments. The Ridgeline is primarily supposed for on-road use.
These concerns support in making an knowledgeable resolution. Balancing capabilities with particular wants maximizes the worth of this funding.
The ultimate part gives a concluding abstract and reinforces key takeaways.
Conclusion
This exploration has offered an in depth examination of the attributes that distinguish the Toyota Tundra and Honda Ridgeline. Key variations in development, towing capability, gasoline effectivity, mattress measurement, trip consolation, cabin area, off-road functionality, and resale worth have been highlighted. Every automobile caters to distinct shopper wants, and an intensive understanding of those variations is crucial for knowledgeable decision-making.
Finally, the optimum selection hinges on aligning automobile traits with particular person necessities and priorities. Earlier than acquisition, conduct exhaustive analysis, and take a look at drives for every automobile are suggested. This cautious consideration ensures a purchase order that successfully addresses long-term wants and maximizes satisfaction inside the panorama of “toyota tundra vs honda ridgeline”.
