Quite some time ago Honda Automotive released the news and this less-than-detailed image (above) of the planned new Honda Ridgeline pickup truck, and ever since then many have wondered if (and hoped for) the next-generation Ridgeline would be a tougher little truck than first generation. Now there are rumors than the redesigned Ridgeline will be a more “normal” looking pickup truck.

2014 Honda Ridgeline RTL

We’re hoping that “normal” means better. Although the Ridgeline has some fine attributes such as a five-passenger cabin, smooth ride and handling, and half-ton truck capability, it has been the target of much humor over the years due to its unconventional styling with buttresses behind the passenger compartment, its closed-box unibody platform, and under-whelming towing capacity for the segment.

“The next generation Ridgeline will build on Honda’s role in creating new value with a new take on advancing form and function in the truck segment,” said Michael Accavitti, senior vice president of automobile operations for American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “With a clear path forward, Ridgeline will play an even more important role in our future product portfolio and strengthen an already class-leading lineup of light trucks.”

The redesign is said to hit no sooner than late 2015 or early 2016, and that will have put Honda out of the mid-size pickup market more than a year, after discontinuing the Ridgeline this summer. With GM coming on strong with the new 2015 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon mid-size pickups, as well as segment dominator Toyota also ramping up production of its Tacoma, it could be tough for Honda to make waves with a new truck unless it’s got some guts.

If Honda did come out with a better and bolder, more robust midsize pickup truck with a good backbone (body on frame construction) that would make it more off-road worthy, would you be interested? Give us your two cents in the comments section below.

2014 Honda Ridgeline RTL