Not so sure about this. The maximum payload for a RL is 1,599. That's before adding options.
An XL 2.7 will be over 1,700 lbs payload. I suspect the only configuration that a stripped RL will have more payload would be a fully loaded Lariat 2.7(which is no longer available new).

My 2019 XLT Supercrew 302A 4x4 Sport had 1535. Option up a RL to the best comparison and I cannot see how it would compete in payload. But it doesnt appear the OP cares about that.

 

Just for reference, the sticker payload on my literally fully loaded 2019 AWD RL RTLE was 1588#.

But yes, to the point, for the OP none of these ranges seem to fall below his wants / needs.

 

I realize that the OP doesn't care about payload but I gotta say something here and then I'll shut up.
If anyone here thinks that A Ridgeline can equal the work of an F150... A IRS vehicle like that will not handle the same load no matter what the payload sticker says.
I pulled around an 8200 lb toyhauler with my 2016 XLT with a 2.7 / 6 speed /3:55's for thousands of miles with no issues at all. (1430 lb payload)
No Ridgeline is capable of that.

I was also within my trucks numbers... this is without and then with the trailer

 

Haven't seen anyone even remotely hint at such in this thread, quite the contrary in fact.

 

Thanks guys I will stick to the RL or Midsizes like maybe a 2022 GMC Canyon Denali or something I will probably even wait and see what the new Ranger brings though im more in the year or 2 old price range than brand new. Thats why I didnt really look at the new Toyota or anything. Ranger probably same deal just too much initially..22 is normally a good point for me as is a super great deal on a 23 someone trying to move or something.

Appreciate all your help guys , thanks!

 

I owned an original Ridgeline and loved it. I need a truck truck now and my past 2018 F150 and warranty pushed me into a Tundra. Get the Ridgeline, better over all. Awd system is better than the part time on these full size trucks, parking will be a breeze, aluminum body doesn't matter as all the none aluminum parts will rust out anyways.
Ford likes to not have safety features like adaptive cruise control as my Hi 502a didnt(my fault for not checking and assuming), front parking sensors. My current Tundra does and it's a game changer and I know the current Ridgeline does too so you don't have to worry about that. Back with the Ridgeline if I had a warranty issue it was fixed, Ford will not offer you a loaner period and if it's almost broke you get sent out the door until it's broke.

good luck with your choice 👍

 

Lol...aint that the truth!!!

 

I know some people like it but i HATE adaptive CC I like the old standard CC. most of the time in the wives vehicle and mine currently bot of which have ACC we turn it off..
I hate driving along youre paying atention to the road but your listening to something or talking and the next thing you know you have been following that red car in front of you for 15 miles and its a old lady going 47 MPH in a 65.. id rather just see im gaining quickly on them and change lanes lol. almost never use ACC even when available. I ammost always try to make sure i can **** IT OFF and use regular CC.

 

I'm the opposite with just CC as I set to 10 below max and I'll find that old lady everytime and have to hit the brakes lol. But then with acc a car cuts in front to close and and all sorts of ****s going off!

What are the price differences between the ranger/canon/Ridgeline? I remeber back in the day mid sizes were just alittle cheaper than the full size so then I would just go full size. Seems it's still pretty close But the prices have really gone up on all these trucks/cars.

 

The RL payload is misleading, so are lots of family vans, suvs, payload = gvwr - curb weight. The only reason they have a “good” payload is because they have little curb weight. So not idea for towing anything heavy. Forget about max tow rating, I’d never max out the tow rating, not on a mid size, not full size.