0
0
Ford’s ever-popular Ranger lineup is extra difficult than ever, however the one you see right here – or slightly its engine – received’t be accessible from subsequent yr.
There are actually 5 totally different engines, as many as 25 particular person variants, and extra mismatching between trims and specs than you’d fairly anticipate from the typical sock drawer.
But fear not, as a result of among the many chaos there’s nonetheless a plethora of extra conventional utes to select from. New plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variations are actually accessible, however diesel engines are nonetheless the norm, and there are all kinds of physique kinds on supply to swimsuit the wants of all varieties of patrons.
Among them is the favored model you see on take a look at right here. The 2026 Ford Ranger Wildtrak 4×4 bi-turbo dual-cab pickup is quickly to vanish as a person variant, following the latest announcement that Ford will discontinue the bi-turbo engine after 2025, though the V6 model will proceed.
Being a Wildtrak, it’s only accessible as a dual-cab pickup, with part-time four-wheel drive fitted as normal. That makes it one of many best-suited all-rounders within the Ranger lineup, no less than on paper.
Of course, the Ranger stays Australia’s best-selling car this yr, even when it jostles with both Toyota’s HiLux ute and RAV4 mid-size SUV for the highest spot every month.
With greater than 40,000 deliveries recorded to the tip of September 2025, the Ranger is comfortably away from the HiLux (~35,000) and on one other planet in comparison with phase stalwarts just like the Isuzu D-Max. Its gross sales are dominated by 4×4 automobiles, because the HiLux has the sting in fleet-oriented 4×2 mules.
Even with the inflow of recent utes with varied powertrains, it’s clear the Ranger continues to be firmly in command of Australia’s ute phase, whether or not the typical motorist likes it or not.
What is it concerning the Ranger that retains patrons flooding into showrooms, and is the Wildtrak the candy spot within the lineup?
How a lot does the Ford Ranger price?
Prices have been nudged larger for the Ranger, with the Wildtrak 4×4 bi-turbo listed at $69,890 earlier than on-roads. That’s $250 greater than the asking worth presently final yr.
Ranger XL
| Model | Price earlier than on-roads |
|---|---|
| 2026 Ford Ranger XL 4×2 single-cab/chassis | $37,130 |
| 2026 Ford Ranger XL 4×2 super-cab/chassis | $39,630 |
| 2026 Ford Ranger XL 4×2 dual-cab pickup | $43,530 |
| 2026 Ford Ranger XL 4×4 bi-turbo single cab/chassis | $48,230 |
| 2026 Ford Ranger XL 4×4 dual-cab/chassis | $49,230 |
| 2026 Ford Ranger XL 4×4 bi-turbo super-cab/chassis | $50,730 |
| 2026 Ford Ranger XL 4×4 dual-cab pickup | $51,130 |
| 2026 Ford Ranger XL 4×4 bi-turbo dual-cab/chassis | $52,730 |
| 2026 Ford Ranger XL 4×4 bi-turbo double-cab pickup | $54,630 |
| 2026 Ford Ranger Black Edition 4×4 bi-turbo double-cab pickup | $57,000 (drive-away) |
Ranger XLS
| Model | Price earlier than on-roads |
|---|---|
| 2026 Ford Ranger XLS 4×4 bi-turbo dual-cab pickup | $57,880 |
Ranger XLT
| Model | Price earlier than on-roads |
|---|---|
| 2026 Ford Ranger XLT 4×2 bi-turbo dual-cab pickup | $56,690 |
| 2026 Ford Ranger XLT 4×4 bi-turbo super-cab pickup | $61,890 |
| 2026 Ford Ranger XLT 4×4 bi-turbo dual-cab pickup | $63,890 |
| 2026 Ford Ranger XLT 4×4 V6 dual-cab/chassis | $67,190 |
| 2026 Ford Ranger XLT 4×4 V6 dual-cab pickup | $69,090 |
| 2026 Ford Ranger XLT 4×4 PHEV dual-cab pickup | $71,990 |
Ranger Sport
| Model | Price earlier than on-roads |
|---|---|
| 2026 Ford Ranger Sport 4×4 bi-turbo dual-cab pickup | $66,390 |
| 2026 Ford Ranger Sport 4×4 V6 dual-cab pickup | $71,590 |
| 2026 Ford Ranger Sport 4×4 PHEV dual-cab pickup | $75,990 |
Ranger Wildtrak
| Model | Price earlier than on-roads |
|---|---|
| 2026 Ford Ranger Wildtrak 4×4 bi-turbo dual-cab pickup | $69,890 |
| 2026 Ford Ranger Wildtrak 4×4 V6 dual-cab pickup | $75,090 |
| 2026 Ford Ranger Wildtrak 4×4 PHEV dual-cab pickup | $79,990 |
Ranger Platinum
| Model | Price earlier than on-roads |
|---|---|
| 2026 Ford Ranger Platinum 4×4 V6 dual-cab pickup | $80,890 |
Ranger Stormtrak
| Model | Price earlier than on-roads |
|---|---|
| 2026 Ford Ranger Stormtrak 4×4 PHEV dual-cab pickup | $86,990 |
Ranger Raptor
| Model | Price earlier than on-roads |
|---|---|
| 2026 Ford Ranger Raptor 4×4 3.0TT V6 dual-cab pickup | $90,690 |
Though there are a great deal of utes on sale, the Ranger is one among Australia’s ‘big three’ utes alongside the HiLux and D-Max, its two most direct rivals.
In that context, the HiLux Rogue is most similar to the Wildtrak by way of positioning and gear, and it’s priced at $71,530 earlier than on-roads, whereas the D-Max LS-U+ prices $68,000 earlier than on-roads.
Outside of these two rivals, different rivals embody the Volkswagen Amarok, which is successfully a reskinned Ranger with a extra premium positioning.
The costliest Amarok fitted with the bi-turbo engine is the TDI500 Style, priced at $69,740 earlier than on-roads, although its gear checklist doesn’t fairly line up with the Wildtrak’s.
To see how the Ford Ranger stacks up in opposition to its rivals, use our comparability instrument.
Let us provide help to discover your new automobile
Buy your new automobile with out the stress. It’s quick, easy and fully free.
Great service from Travis and crew, second time I’ve used this enterprise wouldn’t hesitate to advocate them to anybody
Craig C.
Purchased a Ford Ranger in Sunshine Coast, QLD
CarProfessional helped Craig save hundreds on his Ford Ranger, now allow us to prevent in your subsequent new automobile.
Find a deal
What is the Ford Ranger like on the within?
There’s a component of exclusivity concerning the Wildtrak, and it feels rather more like an SUV than nearly all different dual-cabs inside – aside from the Amarok.
Part of that is because of its shared componentry with the associated Everest massive SUV, however the Ranger has all the time had an “I was here first” vibe – no less than to me. Everything in right here feels appropriate, with simply the correct quantity of economic edginess wafting by means of the powerful but elegant veneer.
For one, materials selection is superb. There’s a good bit of scratchy black plastic on the centre console, doorways, and decrease portion of the sprint, however it blends nearly seamlessly into the cabin’s darkish, moody palette.
It’s complemented by the sparing use of piano-black plastic, black leather-based, and delicate gunmetal-grey items, whereas the black headliner makes every little thing really feel all of the extra premium. The Wildtrak-specific orange stitching and embroidery can also be fairly tasteful.
Capping it off are loads of soft-touch surfaces, with the armrests properly suited to a extra relaxed driving place. Plus, every little thing is simply good to take a look at.
Then there’s the tech. The Wildtrak is the cheaper Ranger within the lineup to get the bigger 12.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, up from the ten.1-inch unit fitted in each trim stage beneath it.
Actually, that isn’t technically true, as a result of the XLT PHEV will get the 12.0-inch unit too… regardless of the diesels getting the smaller display screen, and it being a decrease grade. This is what we imply by mismatched trims and specs, though it’s solely the PHEVs inflicting the confusion.
But anyway, the Wildtrak’s display screen is high-quality and elevates the cabin. The dimension distinction is just delicate, however it isn’t essentially its dimensions that make it good. Instead, it’s Ford’s software program, which brings clear graphics, snappy response instances, and a great deal of settings.
Wireless smartphone mirroring is normal, and we had no points working this display screen as soon as we have been acquainted. We don’t love its white theme although, particularly in opposition to the darker Apple CarPlay UI, however we like that Ford allows you to change to darkish mode.
The digital instrument cluster, in the meantime, is properly sized and provides a plethora of various info. You can customise the quantity of information you get too, which implies the display screen might be as cluttered or as fundamental as you want.
In truth, there’s nearly an excessive amount of to look by means of right here, and it may be complicated to navigate by means of utilizing the few buttons on the steering wheel. Time spent enjoying round to see what every little thing does will clear issues up, however it isn’t as intuitive as some might want.
The cabin’s sheer practicality offsets any of this clunkiness. There are a great deal of storage choices, together with 4 cupholders (together with two that fold out from the dashboard), a two-tier glovebox, a central cubby with wi-fi cellphone charging and two USB ports (USB-A and -C), and a properly sized centre console storage field with a 12V outlet inside.
The cabin is practical, comfy, and aesthetically pleasing, which makes for simple hours behind the wheel.
It’s a lot of the identical within the second row, although there isn’t fairly as a lot legroom or headroom as you may anticipate. At 173cm tall, I had no points, however taller occupants might really feel considerably cramped, particularly if sitting behind a tall driver.
The leather-based upholstery is pretty slippery too, and there’s nowhere close to the identical stage of facet bolstering as provided by the entrance seats. That means occupants shall be sliding round a good bit in corners, which isn’t too surprising for a ute.
There is the benefit of twin rear-facing air vents, a pair of USB ports, and a 400W socket, whereas there’s a delicate padded fold-down armrest within the center with two cupholders. ISOFIX anchors and top-tether factors for little one seats are additionally fitted within the outboard seats.
If you want further cargo house and don’t wish to use the bathtub, the rear bench can both fold up or right down to accommodate. Folding it up reveals a few cubbies within the ground, whereas folding down reveals a plastic-lined bulkhead with an Easter egg: the unique Ranger brand.
The tub is sort of as sensible because it will get. We just like the inclusion of a powered, rolling tonneau cowl, although the world for it to roll up into and the electrical mechanism eats into vertical house on the very entrance.
There aren’t any hydraulic dampers fitted to the tailgate, so it may possibly come crashing down when you’re not cautious when opening it. Ford’s brochure says the Wildtrak will get a “Tailgate with Lift Assistance”, however it nonetheless feels pretty heavy.
You’ll additionally discover our blue tester was fitted with Ford’s non-obligatory Flexible Rack System, which prices $2800 further. Replacing the Wildtrak’s normal Sports Sailplane, it’s a modern unit that may slide into varied positions atop the mattress, providing you with an extra level to safe lengthy objects to the roof that wouldn’t in any other case match.
Additionally, a 400W energy inverter is fitted to the bathtub as normal, as is a 400W energy socket.
| Dimensions | Ford Ranger Wildtrak bi-turbo |
|---|---|
| Length | 5370mm |
| Width | 1918mm |
| Height | 1886mm |
| Wheelbase | 3270mm |
| Tub size (at ground) | 1464mm |
| Tub width (whole) | 1520mm |
| Tub depth | 525mm |
To see how the Ford Ranger stacks up in opposition to its rivals, use our comparability instrument.
What’s beneath the bonnet?
Rangers like our tester are fitted with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder bi-turbo diesel engine, producing 154kW of energy and 500Nm of torque. They’re completely accessible with a part-time four-wheel drive system and a 10-speed computerized transmission.
| Specifications | Ford Ranger Wildtrak bi-turbo |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L 4cyl bi-turbo diesel |
| Power | 154kW |
| Torque | 500Nm |
| Transmission | 10-speed computerized |
| Drive sort | Part-time 4×4 |
| Fuel economic system (claimed) | 7.2L/100km |
| Fuel economic system (as examined) | 8.2L/100km |
| CO2 emissions (claimed) | 189g/km |
| Fuel tank | 80L |
| Kerb weight | 2341kg |
| Payload | 939kg |
| Braked towing capability | 3500kg |
| Gross car mass (GVM) | 3280kg |
| Gross mixture mass (GCM) | 6350kg |
Notably, bi-turbo variants don’t have a ‘4A’ setting, so you must function in rear-wheel drive on sealed surfaces. In distinction, V6 fashions do get 4A, which implies they are often pushed in four-wheel drive always – AKA full-time 4×4.
Our week with the Ranger concerned primarily freeway driving, albeit with prolonged suburban errand-running. Our gas economic system was nonetheless noticeably larger than Ford’s declare, even with the idle cease/begin system that was launched midway by means of 2024.
The solely purpose we point out that’s as a result of we observed considerably decreased gas economic system claims for bi-turbo Rangers in comparison with 2024 (7.2L/100km versus 7.6L/100km), whereas carbon dioxide emissions have been decreased by 12g/km to the 189g/km determine you see above.
It’s arduous to consider a cease/begin system alone would have such a major affect, however the truth is real-world gas effectivity nonetheless can’t fairly match Ford’s official declare.
To see how the Ford Ranger stacks up in opposition to its rivals, use our comparability instrument.
How does the Ford Ranger drive?
Even with out the buttery V6, getting the Ranger shifting rapidly reveals why it’s as standard as it’s.
We received’t deny the V6 is the preferable choice, however there’s a strong sensibility concerning the bi-turbo. Yes, it’s noticeably extra agricultural, and no, it isn’t as highly effective, however its efficiency is probably going greater than anybody would ever want from a dual-cab.
Its outputs are virtually equivalent to the two.8-litre HiLux’s, whereas outperforming the three.0-litre D-Max and the two.4-litre Triton. Naturally, that doubtless means it’s higher-strung than its four-cylinder rivals, which brings reliability into query alongside the famously strong D-Max specifically.
But given the comparatively few remembers for the bi-turbo in comparison with its V6 sibling, it might have a slight edge by way of reliability inside the Ford steady.
Either approach, efficiency is robust, and it retains the Wildtrak fortunately chugging alongside whatever the driving situations or driving calls for. It nonetheless feels largely SUV-like, with the distinction in refinement being negligible within the context of sunshine business automobiles.
The bi-turbo additionally provides robust throttle response, making its energy supply predictable, and it’s much less prone to gentle up the rear wheels than the punchy V6. It’s barely interrupted by the Ranger’s 10-speed gearbox, which – as is the case with most mainstream fashionable Fords – merely has too many gears.
As we’ve mentioned in earlier opinions of those 10-speed automobiles, that variety of gears doesn’t really feel completely essential when the engines produce as a lot torque as they do. It’s not just like the engine wants assist staying in its torque band when 500Nm is constantly on faucet, or that it’s going to lavatory down if geared too excessive.
Still, the 10-speed is a reliable transmission, shifting on the proper instances (albeit fairly often) and doing so easily. There’s no PHEV-related electrical help to confuse its laptop both, which implies the transmission’s behaviour is constantly robust.
Like the engine, it additionally feels barely higher refined than the extra conventional six- or eight-speed items fitted to direct ute rivals, however an Isuzu-style eight should still be extra applicable.
A perceivable drawback with the bi-turbo is that it doesn’t supply full-time four-wheel drive, contrasting the V6. Rear-wheel drive continues to be perfect for each gas economic system, however conditions the place traction isn’t gauranteed, like towing up a hill within the moist, would nonetheless be made simpler by full-time 4WD.
You do nonetheless benefit from high- and low-range four-wheel drive, however each can solely be used on unsealed surfaces. There’s a big dial on the centre console to modify between the 2, proper subsequent to the button to regulate drive modes.
The bi-turbo will get the identical modes as a lot of the different Rangers, bar the extra excessive Raptor. That means there are devoted settings for towing, economic system, and a handful of off-road situations – sufficient to harness one of the best of the Wildtrak’s capabilities.
There’s additionally a locking rear differential and hill descent management as normal, that are operated utilizing Ford’s trademark off-road display screen on the infotainment show.
For an in depth have a look at the Ranger’s off-road capabilities, take a look at our video evaluation beneath:
As for experience and dealing with, the Ranger is surprisingly composed, once more enjoying into its SUV vibe. Our Wildtrak tester did lose some on-road finesse with all-terrain tyres fitted, however there are nonetheless only a few complaints from the front-end round turns.
Its suspension is delicate sufficient to be comfy, however doesn’t compromise physique management or business capabilities. The Ranger continues to be the benchmark for utes by way of the compromise between experience, dealing with, and functionality.
The steering can also be properly weighted and fits a car of the Ranger’s intent, whereas offering sufficient really feel and suggestions.
Road noise ranges are acceptable, even with the chunkier all-terrain tread. Wind noise can also be comparatively properly suppressed and, whereas it’s not fully silent, it received’t annoy you on lengthy freeway stints.
Trusted Reviews, Smarter Choices, Better Prices
Where knowledgeable automobile opinions meet knowledgeable automobile shopping for – CarProfessional offers you trusted recommendation, personalised service and actual financial savings in your subsequent new automobile.
The Ranger additionally provides a cohesive suite of efficient and intuitive security gear. Previous complaints about its odd and infrequently misplaced warnings to maintain our palms on the steering wheel appear to have been fastened, as no such points cropped up this time round.
The solely time we noticed warnings from the automobile’s security methods was once we genuinely strayed over lane markings (safely, in fact), suggesting good calibration throughout the board.
We additionally discovered the Ford’s clever cruise management dependable, confidently following the car’s chosen lane on the freeway whereas reacting appropriately to adjustments in site visitors. You will nonetheless be prompted to maintain your palms on the wheel if the system detects any fading consideration, however that’s truthful sufficient.
Capping it off is beneficiant visibility all spherical, regardless of the excessive bonnet line, with parking supported by a surround-view digital camera and a large number of sensors. Plus, it’s inconceivable to be blindsided with facet mirrors this huge.
| Off-road dimensions | Ford Ranger Wildtrak |
|---|---|
| Track entrance and rear | 1620mm |
| Ground clearance | 234mm |
| Approach angle | 30.0º |
| Departure angle | 23.0º |
| Ramp breakover angle | 21.0º |
| Wading depth | 800mm |
To see how the Ford Ranger stacks up in opposition to its rivals, use our comparability instrument.
What do you get?
There are eight distinct trim ranges within the Ranger lineup, with the Wildtrak slotting in in direction of the highest.
2026 Ford Ranger XL gear highlights:
- Acoustic windscreen
- 16-inch metal wheels
- All-season tyres
- 16-inch metal spare wheel
- Front disc and rear drum brakes
- Heavy-duty suspension
- Black grille
- Halogen headlights
- Halogen daytime operating lights
- LED central high-mounted tail gentle
- LED tail-lights (pickup solely)
- Tailgate with elevate help (pickup solely)
- Integrated tailgate step (pickup solely)
- 10.1-inch Sync4 portrait touchscreen infotainment system
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Embedded modem
- Remote begin by way of FordCross app
- 8.0-inch digital instrument cluster
- Tilt and telescopic steering column adjustment
- Ebony fabric upholstery
- Eight-way handbook driver seat
- Four-way handbook entrance passenger seat
- Vinyl ground masking
- Power rear home windows (dual-cab solely)
- Single-zone local weather management
- Electronically locking rear differential (4×4 fashions solely)
- Conventional gear selector
- Mechanical handbrake
Ranger XLS:
- 400-watt energy inverter
- 16-inch Dark Sparkle Silver alloy wheels
- Black facet steps
- Halogen entrance fog lights
- Black grille with silver accents
- Carpet flooring
- Driver ground mat
- Drive mode choice
- Tow bar
- Trailer gentle examine
- Integrated trailer brake controller
- Body-colour door handles
- Six-speaker sound system
- Proximity entry with push-button begin
- Dual-zone local weather management
- Rear seat air vents
- Satellite navigation
- DAB+ digital radio
Ranger XLT provides:
- 17-inch alloy wheels with all-season tyres
- 17-inch metal spare wheel (normal on diesel, no-cost choice for PHEV)
- Rear disc brakes
- Electronic handbrake
- Leather-wrapped ‘e-Shifter’ gear selector
- PHEV-specific drive modes:
- Auto EV, EV Now, EV Later and EV Charge
- 2300W inside outlet
- 4×2 locking rear axle
- Front grille with chrome central bar
- LED headlights with C-shaped LED daytime operating lights (diesel solely, halogen for PHEV)
- Front-mounted tow hook
- Black sports activities bar (pickup solely)
- Rear tub illumination (pickup solely)
- Bedliner with 12V socket (diesel pickups solely)
- Spray-in bedliner with 12V socket (tremendous cab solely)
- 2x 3450W mattress shops (PHEV solely)
- 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system (PHEV solely)
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Electrochromatic mirror
- Rain-sensing wipers
Ranger Sport provides:
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- 18-inch spare wheel
- Dark accent grille
- Dark exterior accents
- Two front-mounted tow hooks
- Skid plate
- LED headlights with C-shaped LED daytime operating lights (PHEV solely)
- Front ground mats
- Rotary drive mode selector
- Wireless cellphone charging
- Off-road display screen
- 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system (PHEV solely)
- Ebony leather-based upholstery with ‘SPORT’ embossing
- Eight-way power-adjustable driver seat
- Six-way handbook entrance passenger seat
Ranger Wildtrak provides:
- Goodyear Wrangler all-terrain tyres
- Unique Wildtrak sports activities bar
- Power tub curler shutter
- Cargo administration system
- Unique Wildtrak entrance grille with mesh sample and Boulder Grey accents
- Exterior facet mirrors with puddle lamps and zone lighting
- Roof rails
- Aluminium load field tie-down rails
- 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Ambient lighting
- Pull-out dash-mounted cupholders
- Unique Wildtrak leather-accented upholstery
- Heated entrance seats
- Eight-w