The Ford Ranger returns with the same winning formula, while the Honda Ridgeline continues to make comfort a priority. Which pickup offers the better value? Let's take a closer look, so you know which truck you should drive off the lot.
Key Takeaways:
- The Ranger offers more powertrains and higher towing capacity than the Ridgeline.
- Both trucks have only minor updates for the current model year.
- The Ranger delivers more capability at a lower starting price.
2026 Ford Ranger and Ridgeline Changes and Trim Pricing
Following its recent redesign, the Ford Ranger has no significant changes for 2026. Buyers can still choose from three trims that cover everything from work-ready duty to premium comfort. Ranger trim pricing is:
- XL: $35,445
- XLT: $37,470
- Lariat: $45,850
Honda also keeps its changes light for the Ridgeline. Black Edition models now feature a black-painted roof, while the TrailSport gains a new Ash Green Metallic exterior color. Ridgeline model pricing is:
- Sport: $40,795
- RTL: $43,595
- TrailSport: $45,995
- TrailSport+ (HPD Wheels): $47,195
- Black Edition: $47,395
- Black Edition Two-Tone: $47,895
Power, Performance, and Towing Capability in the Ranger vs. Ridgeline
Ford gives Ranger buyers a choice between two turbocharged engines, a standard 270-hp 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder or 315-hp twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter V6. Both pair with a 10-speed automatic and either rear-wheel or four-wheel drive (the V6 comes exclusively with four-wheel drive). Every Ridgeline features a 280-hp 3.5-liter V6 paired with a nine-speed automatic and standard all-wheel drive.
The Ranger also delivers a clear advantage when it comes to capability. Properly equipped, it can tow up to 7,500 pounds regardless of engine choice. Payload can reach up to 1,788 pounds with the four-cylinder and 1,542 pounds with the V6. The Ridgeline hits its towing limit at 5,000 pounds and offers a max payload rating of 1,583 pounds.
Powertrains and Towing
| 2026 Ford Ranger |
2026 Honda Ridgeline |
| 2.3L turbo I4 or 2.7L twin-turbo V6 |
3.5-liter V-6 |
| 10-speed automatic |
9-speed automatic |
| RWD or 4WD (turbo I4)4WD (V6) |
AWD |
| 7,500-pound towing capacity and 1,542-pound payload |
5,000-pound towing capacity and 1,583-pound payload |
Ranger vs. Ridgeline Fuel Economy Comparison
The Ranger's EPA estimates are 21 mpg city / 26 mpg highway with rear-wheel drive; four-wheel-drive models get 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. The Ridgeline returns an EPA-estimated 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway, while the TrailSport's added off-road equipment lowers highway fuel economy to 23 mpg.
Which Pickup Has Better Tech and Convenience Features?
Ford equips the Ranger XL and XLT with a 10.1-inch touchscreen and an 8-inch digital instrument cluster. The Lariat upgrades to a larger 12-inch touchscreen and a 12.4-inch digital gauge cluster, and those larger displays are also available on the XLT. Every Ranger features SYNC 4 with wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, and Ford's convenient exterior zone lighting system.
The Ridgeline features a standard 9-inch touchscreen that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Every trim also includes a wireless charging pad, while built-in navigation comes standard on the TrailSport and Black Edition models.
Which Is the Best Midsize Pickup for Work and Daily Driving: a 2026 Ford Ranger or Honda Ridgeline?
If you're shopping for a truck that offers stronger towing, higher payload ratings, more engine choices, and a lower starting price, the Ford Ranger is the better all-around package. It delivers the capability most truck buyers are looking for without sacrificing modern tech or everyday comfort. Contact us today at Banner Ford of Monroe to get behind the wheel!