Regards to unibody vs. body-on-frame. I think the reason it exists is it's cheaper to build and manufacture. It's also probably safer, rides on the road better, easier to integrate components (like McPherson struts), etc. Let's also not forget that the XJ Cherokee went from BOF to unibody not unlike the Ridgeline and was a fine OHV.
I think in this case the intention of the Pilot/Ridgeline isn't the same as the traditional 4WD pickup buyer like me. It's targeted towards folks who use their trucks as cars, e.g. the midsize 4 door market for 30-somethings who want to keep their dude cred while armpit deep in client meetings, soccer practices and diapers. If you're aware of SAS and have any intention of mods it's just not a vehicle that is intended to be on your radar.
I know GM/Ford/Toyota see them as competition, and to sales numbers they obviously are, but I just can't see them being in the same category. A manly Subaru Forester? Yup.