Ford Revamps 2026 Ranger to Compete with the New Hilux but Omits a Significant Engine | Carscoops

      The updated Ford Ranger will compete against the latest generations of the Toyota Hilux and Nissan Navara pickups in Australia.

      

      9 hours ago

      

      by Thanos Pappas

      

      Ford refreshes Ranger and Everest with additional standard features for MY26.5.

      The new Wolftrak edition joins existing models XL, XLT, XLS, Black, Wildtrak, Tremor, and Raptor.

      Orders will open soon, with deliveries to Australian dealers expected in mid-2026.

      Ford has rolled out updated versions of the Ranger pickup and its closely related Everest SUV in Australia, shortly following the launch of the new generations of the Toyota Hilux and Nissan Navara. The country’s best-selling model features minor trim modifications and enhanced equipment, while discontinuing the bi-turbo diesel variant.

      The current Ford Ranger generation debuted in November 2021, followed by the Everest in March 2022. After four years, both models are due for updates, but Ford has opted for gradual changes instead of major overhauls.

      The Ranger retains its original body design but some trims now feature gloss and matte black accents in place of contrasting greys and chrome, with new color and wheel design additions. More importantly, the standard equipment has been improved across all variants.

      

      New Wolftrak Limited Edition

      The highlight is the Ranger Wolftrak, a special edition available in a new Traction Green color, along with Shadow Black and Command Grey choices, accented by Zest highlights on the grille and 17-inch Asphalt Black alloy wheels. It features unique badging and an elevated “long-legged” sports bar for a more aggressive appearance.

      Enhanced Standard Features

      The base XL model now includes a 12-inch infotainment display, dual-zone climate control, and the Driver Assist Technology package, even for the single cab-chassis version. The XLT variant now offers a Heavy-Duty suspension setup, while the XLS gains side steps, carpet floor mats, and all-terrain tires on 17-inch alloy wheels.

      The Sport variant has been phased out, but the previously limited Ranger Black Edition is now a permanent fixture in the lineup, and the rugged Tremor with off-road enhancements makes a limited-time return. However, Australian customers will still miss the road-focused Ranger MS-RT, which remains exclusive to the UK and Europe.

      The well-liked Ranger Wildtrak introduces new standard 18-inch alloy wheels, Matrix LED headlights, and a premium 10-speaker B&O sound system. The flagship Platinum is now available in a new Acacia Green shade, while the Raptor continues without changes and will soon be joined by the robust Ranger Super Duty work vehicle.

      Discontinuation of Bi-Turbo Diesel

      The most significant mechanical update for the MY26.5 range is the elimination of the 2.0-liter bi-turbo diesel, likely due to stricter emissions regulations. The base engine is now a refined version of the single-turbo 2.0-liter diesel, boasting a new timing chain and revised fuel injection system, generating 168 hp (125 kW / 170 PS) and 405 Nm (299 lb-ft) of torque.

      Above it, the familiar 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel produces 247 hp (184 kW / 250 PS) and 600 Nm (442.5 lb-ft) of torque and is an option for the XL, XLT, and Black Edition, while standard on XLS, Wolftrak, Wildtrak, Tremor, and Platinum trims.

      Both diesel engines are paired with Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission, with power delivered to either the rear or all four wheels, depending on the model's specifications.

      The Raptor retains its twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6, still yielding 392 hp (292 kW / 398 PS). Ford did not mention the plug-in hybrid Ranger, which is expected to continue with its 2.3-liter EcoBoost and electric motor setup, yielding a total of 277 hp (207 kW / 281 PS).

      Updates for the SUV Range

      The Everest lineup reflects many of the Ranger’s updates, notably losing the 2.0-liter bi-turbo diesel as its entry-level engine, replaced by the less powerful single-turbo variant. The 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel is available as an option on the Active and Sport trims, and standard on Tremor and Platinum.

      The new Everest Active replaces the Ambiente and Trend trims, becoming the most budget-friendly variant. It includes features such as 18-inch alloys, leather seats, a 12-inch infotainment system, LED headlights, privacy glass, and tire pressure monitoring.

      The rest of the Everest range maintains the Sport, Tremor, and Platinum trims. For 2026, the Tremor adds a premium seat package that features heated, ventilated, and power-adjustable front seats. Both the Sport and Tremor also come standard with a 360-degree camera