I liked the Frontier more than I expected. It was my personal best lease deal in terms of total cost. I got 99 problems and a Frontier ain’t one. (A new year’s guide to a transitory lease in a car you probably don’t want) - #293 by SzaroJr
Please note the Frontier was the base trim (S) and the Ridgeline is the highest trim (RTL-E) so it’s not an equal comparison.
The Frontier definitely drove and handled like a truck. The Ridgeline’s ride is much smoother and SUV like. The Frontier is 4x4 and the Ridgeline AWD. The Frontier has more ground clearance and in my opinion is more capable offroad but the Ridgeline is more comfortable around town.
The Ridgeline is wider and has a bit more space in the rear. I personally prefer the conventional arm rest and gear shifter that the Frontier has over the captain style seats and push button gear selector of the Ridgeline. I enjoy the power mirrors, memory seats, remote start, LED headlights, lane keep assist, power tailgate lock, bed liner, bed trunk and trailer hitch which I didn’t have in my Frontier due to it being the base trim. The infotainment system in the Ridgeline could use an update but not a big deal for me since I primarily use Android Auto.
Both good looking trucks in their own ways. I like the Ridgeline’s size but preferred the Frontier’s stance. I haven’t had the Ridgeline very long but it seems the fuel economy will be slightly better.
In summary, both good trucks but the Ridgeline seems more practical for my needs. I won’t be taking it off-road, but will be driving it on long trips and occasionally making Home Depot runs. The Ridgeline reminds me of a 2017 MDX my wife had that we really liked. I wanted another pickup for the reasons listed above and considered another Frontier but the lease deals/incentives were much better for the Ridgeline.
I hope that helps!