Overview
The 2026 Ford Ranger is the most powerful and capable Ranger ever sold in North America. Ford returned the nameplate in 2019 and redesigned it for 2024 with a longer wheelbase, more power, and a genuine factory Raptor.
The Ranger competes with the Chevrolet Colorado, Toyota Tacoma, and GMC Canyon. It leads the segment in tow capacity and features the most capable Raptor variant.
Segment Leader
2026 Trims & Pricing
Six trims plus the Raptor off-road performance model.
Full Specs
| Spec | XL / XLT | Lariat | Raptor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 | 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 | 3.0L EcoBoost V6 |
| Horsepower | 270 hp | 270 hp | 405 hp |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft | 430 lb-ft |
| Max Tow | 7,500 lb | 7,500 lb | N/A rated |
| Max Payload | 1,805 lb | 1,805 lb | 1,200 lb |
| Ground Clearance | 8.5″ | 8.5″ | 12.1″ |
| Approach Angle | 27.8° | 27.8° | 33.1° |
| Tires | All-season | All-season | 33″ BFG KO2 |
| Suspension | Std coil | Std coil | Fox Live Valve |
| Fuel Economy | 22/27 mpg | 22/27 mpg | 17/22 mpg |
Performance & Fuel Economy
EPA highway rating measured at 55 mph. Real-world highway at 70 mph is typically 25–27 mpg. Towing near max capacity reduces highway fuel economy 30–40% — budget accordingly for trailer trips.
The 2025 Ranger uses a revised 2.3L EcoBoost producing 270 hp — up from 203 hp in the prior generation. The 10-speed automatic is smooth and well-matched.
Fuel economy reaches 22 city / 27 hwy mpg in 4x2 configuration — among the best in the mid-size segment. The Raptor's 3.0L V6 trades efficiency for 405 hp and 430 lb-ft.
Towing & Payload
Max tow of 7,500 lb (non-Raptor) is class-competitive. Payload tops at 1,805 lb. A 5-foot or 6-foot bed is available depending on the SuperCab or SuperCrew configuration.
Available Pro Power Onboard on Lariat+ provides up to 2.0 kW of exportable power — useful for job sites and camping.
Bed Note
Raptor Off-Road
The Ranger Raptor brings Fox Live Valve electronically controlled dampers, 33-inch BFGoodrich KO2 all-terrain tires, a Watt's linkage rear suspension, and 7 terrain modes including Baja and Rock Crawl.
Ground clearance reaches 12.1 inches — more than the Bronco base. The Raptor is purpose-built for high-speed desert running as well as technical rock trails.
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Live Valve Suspension
Reliability
The 2024+ Ranger (new generation) has limited long-term data. Initial quality surveys show strong results. The 2.3L EcoBoost engine has proven history from prior Ranger and Bronco applications.
| Area | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2.3L Powertrain | ★★★★☆ | Well-proven in Bronco/Explorer; reliable track record |
| 3.0L Raptor | ★★★★☆ | Also used in Bronco Raptor/Explorer ST; strong results |
| 10-spd Auto | ★★★★☆ | Smooth; early Ranger units had some shift hunting, fixed |
| 4WD System | ★★★★☆ | Part-time 4WD reliable; electronic locker robust |
| Electronics | ★★★☆☆ | 2024+ SYNC 4 mostly stable; minor interface quirks |
| Overall | ★★★★☆ | Strong debut for new gen; recommend 2025 MY for best maturity |
Consult Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, and NHTSA for the specific model year you are considering. Build year matters significantly.
Recalls
Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls using your 17-digit VIN. New recalls are issued regularly — check before any used vehicle purchase.