2026 Ford Ranger Review: Power, Tech, and Capability
Table of Contents
2026 Ford Ranger Review: Power, Tech, and Capability
Bold Styling and Presence
The 2026 Ford Ranger still offers a rugged exterior with a crew cab and a 5-foot bed. It looks muscular and refined.
The Super Duty variant amps things further with available embossed branding, auxiliary switches, and upfit-friendly design tweaks.
Engines and Towing Strength
The standard Ranger features a turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder and an optional 2.7L EcoBoost V6, paired with a smooth 10-speed automatic. Maximum towing reaches around 7,500 lb when equipped properly.
In contrast, the Ranger Super Duty uses a 3.0L diesel V6, offering up to 4,500 kg (9,920 lb) towing and matching GVM.
Interior and Infotainment Upgrades
The 2026 Ranger introduces the faster SYNC 5 system, large 10– or 12-inch touchscreens, and improved soft-touch materials in mid trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and digital clusters are now more common.
Super Duty ups the ante with a standard 12-inch screen, overhead auxiliary switches, and device mounting options.
Advanced Safety and Driver Aids
Ford upgrades its Co-Pilot360 suite to version 2.5, adding features like Intersection Assist, Evasive Steering, adaptive cruise control with lane centering, and reverse brake assist.
Super Duty models benefit from ADAS additions such as 360-degree camera coverage, blind-spot monitoring with trailer assistance, and automatic emergency braking.
Hybrid Option – Efficient Meets Rugged
The Ranger PHEV (Plug-In Hybrid) combines a 2.3L EcoBoost engine with a 75 kW electric motor and an 11.8 kWh battery. It delivers about 26 miles (42 km) of electric-only driving and up to 277 bhp with 514 lb-ft torque.
Fuel economy improves noticeably, CO₂ emissions drop to 70–72 g/km, and you still retain full payload, towing, and trail-ready capabilities.
Global Availability
The Ranger Super Duty is sold in markets such as Australia and Thailand, but not in the United States.
Summary
The 2026 Ford Ranger rounds out its appeal with refined interiors, modern tech, and versatile powertrain choices. The new SYNC 5 system, upgraded safety suite, and optional PHEV make it both smart and eco-conscious. Meanwhile, the Super Duty trim elevates its work-ready status with serious towing, haul-capacity, and rugged tooling features. Whether for daily driving or heavy-duty duty, the 2026 Ranger delivers.