by Updates for Competition
Ford has introduced updated versions of the Ranger pickup and Everest SUV in Australia, shortly after the launch of new generations of competitors – the Toyota Hilux and Nissan Navara. The most popular model on the market received minor changes to trims and improved equipment, and also lost the bi-turbo diesel option.
Modest Changes After Four Years
The current generation Ford Ranger debuted in November 2021, and the Everest in March 2022. After four years, both models needed an update, but Ford chose a moderate approach rather than global changes.
The Ranger did not receive any redesigned body panels, but certain trims now have glossy and matte black accents instead of contrasting gray shades and chrome, while others have benefited from new colors and wheel designs. More importantly, standard equipment has been improved across the entire lineup.
New Limited Wolftrak Series
The main news is the Ranger Wolftrak – a special version, finished in the new Traction Green paint, as well as in Shadow Black and Command Grey colors, complemented by Zest accents on the grille and 17-inch Asphalt Black alloy wheels. Unique badges and a high sports bar give it a more aggressive look.
More Standard Equipment
The base XL trim now standardly includes a 12-inch multimedia system screen, dual-zone climate control, and a driver assistance technology package, even in the single cab version. The XLT received a Heavy-Duty suspension, while the XLS added side steps, carpet floor mats, and 17-inch alloy wheels with all-terrain tires.
The Sport trim has been discontinued, but the previously limited Ranger Black Edition is now a permanent member of the lineup, and the off-road oriented Tremor returns for a limited time. However, Australian buyers still do not have access to the road-oriented Ranger MS-RT, which remains exclusive to the UK and European markets.
The popular Ranger Wildtrak received new 18-inch alloy wheels, matrix LED headlights, and a premium B&O audio system with 10 speakers as standard, while the flagship Platinum is available in a new Acacia Green shade. The Raptor continues unchanged and will soon be joined by the rugged workhorse Ranger Super Duty.
No More Bi-Turbo Diesel
The most important technical change for the 2026.5 model year is the discontinuation of the 2.0-liter bi-turbo diesel, likely due to tightening environmental regulations. The base engine is now an improved version of the single-turbo 2.0-liter diesel, updated with a new timing chain and a revised fuel injection system. It produces 168 hp and 405 Nm of torque.
Above it is the familiar 3.0-liter V6 turbo diesel, which delivers 247 hp and 600 Nm of torque. It is available as an option for the XL, XLT, and Black Edition and is standard on the XLS, Wolftrak, Wildtrak, Tremor, and Platinum.
Both diesel engines use Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission, sending power to the rear or all four wheels depending on the specification.
The Raptor retains its twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine, which still produces 392 hp. Ford did not mention the hybrid Ranger, which is expected to continue using the combination of a 2.3-liter EcoBoost and an electric motor, producing a combined 277 hp.
SUV Lineup Updates
The Everest lineup mirrors many of the Ranger updates, most notably the loss of the 2.0-liter bi-turbo diesel as the base engine. It has been replaced by the less powerful single-turbo version, while the 3.0-liter V6 turbo diesel is available as an option for the Active and Sport trims and is standard on the Tremor and Platinum.
Replacing the Ambiente and Trend trims, the new Everest Active has become the most affordable option. It is equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels, leather upholstery, a 12-inch multimedia system, LED headlights, tinted windows, and tire pressure monitoring, among other features.
The rest of the Everest lineup retains the Sport, Tremor, and Platinum trims. For 2026, the Tremor added a premium seat package that includes heated, ventilated, and power-adjustable front seats. Both the Sport and Tremor now have a standard 360-degree camera system.
Visual updates are limited to a revised color palette. Buyers can now choose Acacia Green (Sport and Platinum) and Alabaster White (Platinum), while Equinox Bronze is no longer available.
Pricing and Availability
The Ford Ranger lineup for the 2026.5 model year ranges from 37,130 to 90,690 Australian dollars, excluding the upcoming Super Duty variant, which will be introduced separately. The Everest lineup starts from 58,990 Australian dollars and goes up to 83,490 Australian dollars.
Ford will start accepting orders for both models in December 2025, with the first deliveries to Australian dealers scheduled for mid-2026.
These updates come at a crucial time for the Australian pickup market, where competition is intensifying with the arrival of new models. The discontinuation of the bi-turbo diesel may cause a mix of disappointment and understanding among brand enthusiasts, especially those who valued its performance. However, the increased standard equipment makes the Ranger and Everest more attractive compared to direct competitors, such as the Toyota Hilux, which also recently introduced updates. The success of these changes will determine whether Ford can maintain its leading positions in the segment, especially given the upcoming release of the Ranger Super Duty, which could attract additional buyers looking for more powerful and specialized variants.
