Ford Ranger Muscles

The New Ford Ranger Super Duty

Believe it or not, the Ford Ranger Super Duty isn’t just a figment of imagination. Ford’s latest addition to the pickup truck line-up, while currently exclusive to Australia and New Zealand, underscores a rising trend fueled by customer demand for a substantial yet versatile truck. Ford is leaning into this niche market with the Ranger Super Duty expected to launch in early 2026, aiming to provide many of the capabilities of an F-150 but wrapped in a smaller package.

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Specs & Details

Details on the 2026 Ranger Super Duty are under wraps, but it is known it will offer Double, Super, and Single Cab configurations. Mid-2026 will see the introduction of the Touring variant, dubbed the Super Duty XLT, featuring special alloy wheels and enhancements geared toward long-distance travel. The truck, inspired by Raptor styles, promises robust durability. Interestingly, it comes equipped with a 34-gallon fuel tank—noticeably larger than the usual 21-gallon tank on its Australian counterpart or the 18-gallon tank typical for U.S. Rangers. Designed for commercial and consumer use, standard undercarriage protection and impressive towing capacity are critical features. The Super Duty raises the towing max to 9,920 pounds, surpassing the standard Ranger’s 7,500 pounds significantly.

Possible U.S. Debut?

While it’s uncertain whether the Ranger Super Duty will be sold in the U.S., there is a conceivable demand, especially amongst fleet operators. The fault for this lies in its potential to strike a balance between a Ranger’s nimbleness and an F-150’s strength in towing, falling just short of the F-150’s 13,500-pound capacity. This could prove handy for those requiring a mid-sized vehicle that doesn’t compromise on power, like ranchers and off-road enthusiasts. The added differential and reinforced underbody make it appealing to those venturing beyond the pavement, though the full-size trucks are notably popular with such users.

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The Drive & Verdict

Price aspects hinder the Ranger Super Duty’s prospects in the U.S.; the pricing might shadow that of a base F-150 at approximately $40,000. Plus, it’s poised with a diesel engine—the 3.0-liter Power Stroke V6—though its presence fades stateside; America waved goodbye to smaller diesel engines in 2021. Yet for enthusiasts and would-be buyers, it’s a game of wait-and-see. Ford could find a niche window on the U.S. mainland, even if only for its capability-rich trade-offs. Never hurts to daydream, right?