Some model years answer big questions, while others just raise new ones. With the 2026 Ranger, Ford isn’t saying much, but the silence leaves room for speculation—about what’s coming, what’s missing, and what Ford might be holding back.
Key Takeaways
- The Ranger goes into production in the fall or winter of 2025, so we won't likely see it until sometime in 2026.
- Minor changes to the Ranger will likely take place for ‘26.
- Rumor has it there may be a hybrid in the near future.
What Are the Expected Changes to the 2026 Ford Ranger?
The current Ranger is still relatively new, and after getting a small handful of tweaks for 2025—including a few extra paint colors—it’s likely 2026 will follow that same path. A Long Bed configuration might join the lineup, but there has been no official announcement as of this writing.
Ford has scheduled production to begin in the next few months. That means deliveries won’t start until late in the year, possibly even early 2026.
The Rangers standard 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder delivers 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy lands around 20 to 21 mpg in the city and 24 to 25 mpg on the highway.
Need more grunt? The available 2.7-liter twin-turbo V6 boosts output to 315 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. You’ll trade a bit of mileage for that extra power—expect around 19 mpg city and 23 mpg highway. Rear-wheel drive is standard, while four-wheel drive is available across multiple trims. Max payload is 1,805 pounds, and towing tops out at 7,500 pounds when properly equipped.
Any Changes to the Ranger Raptor?
The Ranger Raptor is the wild card of the lineup. It's all about serious off-road use, with a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 under the hood and a long list of upgrades that make it more than just a badge. A reinforced frame, locking differentials, long-travel suspension, Fox shocks, and chunky all-terrain tires will continue to make your time on the terrain safe and enjoyable. So far, there are no changes in the Raptor's near future.
Will There Be a Ranger Hybrid or Ranger Super Duty in 2026?
A hybrid Ranger has been rumored for a while now, and it still hasn’t materialized. If it does show up, it may use the 2.3-liter turbocharged engine paired with an electric motor and a 10-speed automatic. Ford hasn’t confirmed anything yet, but 2026 isn’t exactly off the table.
The Ranger Super Duty, on the other hand, does exist, but not for the U.S. market. Ford launched it in Australia with lifted suspension, chunkier bodywork, and heavy-duty components. Whether we’ll ever see it here is anyone’s guess.
Will You Consider the 2026 Ford Ranger?
For buyers who want solid midsize capability with real off-road cred (especially if you’re eyeing the Raptor), the Ranger remains a strong option. While it's not in showrooms as of yet, keep in contact with our sales staff for its arrival. We can't wait to show it to you!