(October 9, 2011) Rumors that the slow-selling mid-sized Honda Ridgeline pickup truck will soon be history are apparently false, according to Honda.

Industry publication Automotive News fueled the rumor when it wrote that the Ridgeline would be discontinued in 2013. Last week it reiterated the "end of the line" contention in a column headlined, "Why Honda's Ridgeline pickup is driving off into the sunset."

Automotive News said sources, including a Honda insider, indicated the Ridgeline as we know it would die and that it might be replaced by a compact pickup/lifestyle vehicle based on the CR-V platform.

Honda said this past week that the Ridgeline will live on. Sage Marie, manager, Honda Truck Product Planning, wrote the following on the Honda Web site last week:

"I would like to lay to rest any rumors about the future of the Honda Ridgeline. In no uncertain terms, the reports in the media that we have plans to discontinue the Ridgeline pick-up truck are false. To the contrary, Ridgeline has a significant role in the Honda line-up and it is expected to continue in the foreseeable future.

"Ridgeline was developed to meet the needs of our customers. They have told us that it is important to offer a pick-up truck and Honda will remain committed to both the vehicle and the segment. Evidence to that fact is that we have announced the new 2012 Ridgeline will receive fresh styling cues, improved fuel efficiency, and even a new Sport model that promises to attract attention.

"Winning both North American and Motor Trend Truck of the Year, Ridgeline was launched to critical acclaim. It offers a combination of passenger and cargo-hauling capability, on-road dynamics, and great packaging with its exclusive in-bed trunk, which remains completely unique in the truck marketplace. Most recently the 2011 Ridgeline has continued to receive industry-leading scores in the midsize pickup segment, achieving a #1 rating in 2011 J.D. Power IQS and APEAL studies.

"And, while it is too early to talk publicly about the details of our future plans for Ridgeline, I can reassure that it will continue to build onto its fundamental strengths, and will remain an important part of the Honda product portfolio."