The revised Ford Ranger will battle the new generations of the Toyota Hilux and Nissan Navara pickups in Australia
Ford has introduced updated versions of the Ranger pickup and the closely related Everest SUV in Australia, shortly after the new-generation Toyota Hilux and Nissan Navara rivals entered the fray. The nation’s best-selling model gains mild trim changes and improved equipment, while saying goodbye to the bi-turbo diesel option.
The current generation of the Ford Ranger arrived in November 2021, followed by the Everest in March 2022. Four years on, both models are due for a refresh, though Ford has kept the revisions modest rather than sweeping.
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The Ranger doesn’t get any redesigned body panels, but certain trims gain gloss and matte black accents instead of contrasting greys and chrome, while others benefit from new colors and wheel designs. More importantly, the standard equipment has been enhanced across the lineup.
New Wolftrak Limited Edition
Leading the news is the Ranger Wolftrak, a special edition finished in a new Traction Green paint, alongside Shadow Black and Command Grey options, set off by Zest accents on the grille and 17-inch Asphalt Black alloy wheels. Unique badging and a tall “long-legged” sports bar give it a tougher stance.
More Standard Features
The entry-level XL now comes standard with a 12-inch infotainment screen, dual-zone climate control, and the Driver Assist Technology suite, even in the single cab-chassis version. The XLT adopts a Heavy-Duty suspension setup, while the XLS adds side steps, carpet floor mats, and 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires.
The Sport has been discontinued, but the previously limited Ranger Black Edition is now a permanent member of the lineup, and the rugged Tremor with off-road bits is back for a limited time. However, Australian buyers still miss out on the road-oriented Ranger MS-RT, which remains exclusive to the UK and European markets.
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The popular Ranger Wildtrak sports new 18-inch alloy wheels, Matrix LED headlights and a premium 10-speaker B&0 sound system as standard, while the flagship Platinum is available with a new Acacia Green shade. The Raptor marches on without any changes, and will soon be joined by the tough Ranger Super Duty workhorse.
No More Bi-Turbo Diesel
The biggest mechanical update for the MY26.5 range is the departure of the 2.0-liter bi-turbo diesel, likely a casualty of tightening emissions standards. The base engine is now a refined version of the single-turbo 2.0-liter diesel, upgraded with a new timing chain and revised fuel injection system. It produces 168 hp (125 kW / 170 PS) and 405 Nm (299 lb-ft) of torque.
Above it sits the familiar 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel, delivering 247 hp (184 kW / 250 PS) and 600 Nm (442.5 lb-ft) of torque. It’s optional on the XL, XLT, and Black Edition, and standard on the XLS, Wolftrak, Wildtrak, Tremor, and Platinum trims.
Both diesel engines use Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission, sending power to the rear or all four wheels depending on specification.
The Raptor keeps its twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6, still producing 392 hp (292 kW / 398 PS). Ford made no mention of the plug-in hybrid Ranger, which is expected to continue with its 2.3-liter EcoBoost and electric motor combination, producing a total of 277 hp (207 kW / 281 PS).
Trimming the SUV Range
The Everest lineup mirrors many of the Ranger’s updates, most notably losing the 2.0-liter bi-turbo diesel as its entry-level engine. In its place is the less powerful single-turbo version, while the 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel is available as an option on the Active and Sport trims, and standard on the Tremor and Platinum.
Replacing the Ambiente and Trend trims, the new Everest Active becomes the most affordable variant. It comes equipped with 18-inch alloys, leather upholstery, a 12-inch infotainment system, LED headlights, privacy glass, and tire pressure monitoring, among other features.
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The rest of the Everest range carries over the Sport, Tremor, and Platinum trims. For 2026, the Tremor adds the premium seat pack, bringing heated, ventilated, and power-adjustable front seats. Both the Sport and Tremor now include a 360-degree camera system as standard.
Visually, updates are limited to a revised color selection. Buyers can now choose Acacia Green (Sport and Platinum) and Alabaster White (Platinum), while Equinox Bronze exits the palette.
Pricing And Availability
The MY26.5 Ford Ranger range is priced from AU$37,130 to AU$90,690 (US$24,000–58,500), excluding the upcoming Super Duty variant, which will be detailed separately. The Everest lineup starts at AU$58,990 and rises to AU$83,490 (US$38,100–53,900).
Ford will start accepting orders for both models in December 2025, with the first deliveries in Australian dealers scheduled for mid-2026.
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Thanos Pappas, a product design engineer by trade, has been wading through automotive journalism for… Read full bio
