Ford Ranger Super Duty: A Game-Changer in the Pickup Truck World
The automotive world is buzzing with excitement as Ford prepares to unleash a formidable contender into the pickup truck arena – the all-new Ranger Super Duty. This isn't just a minor upgrade; it's a complete transformation of the already popular Ford Ranger, pushing the boundaries of towing capacity and overall performance. Set for a 2026 launch, this Australian-engineered truck is poised to redefine what's possible in the mid-size pickup segment.
Unrivaled Towing Prowess: A Towing Powerhouse
Prepare to be amazed. The Ford Ranger Super Duty is designed to tow up to a staggering 4500kg (9921 lbs) – a feat previously unheard of for a mid-size pickup. This represents a substantial increase of 1000kg over the standard Ranger, and a massive 2000kg leap ahead of the Ranger Raptor's 2500kg limit. This monumental towing capability puts it on par with heavyweights like the F-150, Ram 1500, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, and Toyota Tundra, all equipped with 70mm tow balls.
Exceeding Expectations: GVM and GCM
Beyond towing, the Super Duty boasts equally impressive numbers concerning gross vehicle mass (GVM) and gross combined mass (GCM). It achieves a 4500kg GVM – pushing the boundaries of what's permissible for a vehicle driven on a standard passenger license in many regions. The GCM, representing the combined weight of the truck and its load, reaches an impressive 8000kg. These specifications easily surpass the existing Ranger lineup, setting a new benchmark for load-carrying capabilities.
Australian Engineering, Global Impact: Australian Expertise, Global Reach
Despite being manufactured in Thailand, the Ranger Super Duty benefits significantly from the expertise of Ford's 1500-strong IMG Product Development team based in Melbourne, Australia. This team worked extensively with Australian fleets and vehicle modifiers to ensure the Super Duty meets and exceeds the demands of professionals across diverse sectors. This collaboration is a testament to Ford's commitment to producing a vehicle truly attuned to real-world needs.
A Vehicle Built to Endure: Built for the toughest challenges
The Ranger Super Duty is not just about numbers; it's about performance. Ford president and CEO Andrew Birkic highlighted this, emphasizing the Super Duty's role in strengthening Ford's commercial vehicle portfolio. He assured customers that Ford is collaborating with fleets and modifiers to ensure the Super Duty meets every expectation and more. This commitment to collaboration and continuous improvement underscores Ford's dedication to delivering a truly exceptional product.
Power Under the Hood: Powertrain Speculations
While Ford remains tight-lipped about the specifics of the engine, speculation points towards using either the existing Ranger's powerful 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6, or perhaps the even more potent twin-turbo 3.0-litre petrol V6 found in the Ranger Raptor. The possibility of incorporating the F-150's 3.5-litre V6 engine also remains an exciting prospect. Regardless of the final choice, it's certain that the Ranger Super Duty will boast a powertrain capable of handling its enhanced towing and hauling capabilities. This is further supported by the fact that the US-spec F-150 has previously been equipped with the same 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6 that is currently used in the Australian Ranger, showcasing the potential for crossover between platforms.
Beyond the Numbers: More than just towing capacity
The Ranger Super Duty represents more than just a boost in towing capacity; it signifies Ford's commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its customers. It's a testament to the company's innovative spirit and dedication to producing vehicles designed to conquer the toughest challenges. The involvement of Australian engineering expertise ensures the vehicle is precisely tailored to the demands of diverse industries and environments.
The enhanced capabilities of the Ranger Super Duty, combined with its robust build, make it a compelling choice for those requiring a reliable and high-performing workhorse. Its impressive specifications and innovative features position it as a game-changer in the mid-size pickup truck segment.
The Ranger Super Duty is scheduled to launch in Australia in 2026, with plans for global release to follow. However, according to Ford, the United States isn't currently on the list of receiving markets, even though its capability closely mirrors their F-150, making the Australian launch very interesting. While details remain scarce, one thing is clear: the Ford Ranger Super Duty is ready to make its mark on the world stage.
