Honda Ridgeline race truck unveiled, previews 2017 Ridgeline pick-up - IAB Report

Production-spec model to launch in H1 2016.

At the SEMA convention in Las Vegas, Honda has announced their return to off-road racing, and have unveiled their contender that previews a future production-spec pick-up truck.

The pick-up in question is the second generation Honda Ridgeline, which is confirmed to launch in H1 2016. The Ridgeline Baja race track featured above provides an "early glimpse at the styling direction for the all-new 2017 Honda Ridgeline". Elements such as the front fascia, hood, roof and bed closely resemble the upcoming production model.

To compete in the SCORE Baja 1000, a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 engine developed by Honda Performance Development powers the Ridgeline racer, which produces more than 550 bhp. The production-spec model will offer the same engine, albeit without turbocharging, producing much lower power figures than the Baja version.

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At the moment, Honda has not confirmed an RHD version of the 2017 Honda Ridgeline for markets like Australia and Thailand, where the pick-up segment is strong. Should the demand exist and Honda consider otherwise, such a pickup will take years to finally reach showrooms.