The refreshed Ford Ranger line-up for 2026 strengthens its position as one of South Africa’s most popular bakkies. Built at Silverton, the range now spans 23 derivatives across Single Cab, Super Cab and Double Cab body styles.
What is it?
The Ranger is Ford’s light commercial vehicle that blends practicality with premium features. It is designed to serve as a workhorse, family vehicle and off-road companion. The updated portfolio introduces the new Ranger Sport, positioned between the XLT and Wildtrak, while continuing to offer flagship models such as Platinum and Raptor. Customers benefit from improved engines, enhanced durability and standardised 10‑speed automatic transmissions across automatic variants.
Engines:
A major highlight is the introduction of the 2.3‑litre EcoBoost petrol engine, producing 222kW and 452Nm, available in Sport and Wildtrak derivatives. The 3.0‑litre V6 turbodiesel, delivering 184kW and 600Nm, is now offered more widely, including Wildtrak Super Cab and Tremor Double Cab.
The Raptor retains its 3.0litre twin turbo petrol V6 with 292kW and 583Nm. The 2.0litre Single Turbo diesel has been upgraded with a new timing chain for durability, producing 125kW and 405Nm in XLT and XL models. Petrol engines focus on refinement and performance, while diesel options emphasise towing strength and efficiency.
Exterior:
The Ranger’s exterior remains muscular and modern, with each derivative tailored to its role. Sport models add dynamic styling cues to bridge the gap between XLT practicality and Wildtrak premium ruggedness.
Wildtrak and Tremor emphasise offroad capability with bold design, while Platinum delivers a more luxurious presence. Raptor continues to stand apart with race inspired suspension and aggressive detailing.
Interior:
Cabins are designed for comfort and technology. Sport models combine practicality with feature rich appointments. Wildtrak offers premium finishes and advanced connectivity, while Platinum raises refinement to near SUV levels.
Raptor’s interior is performance focused, with supportive seating and unique trim. Across the range, Ford’s latest infotainment and safety systems are integrated to enhance convenience and driver confidence.
Equipment:
The XL remains the entry point, prioritising affordability and efficiency. XLT balances value with technology, appealing to both fleet and leisure buyers. Sport introduces dual-purpose versatility. Wildtrak continues as a flagship with premium features and optional Wildtrak X offroad package. Platinum sits at the top for luxury, while Raptor is the ultimate performance bakkie.
Prices:
The lineup begins with XL Single Cab (R590 000) and XL Super Cab (R599 500). XLT Super Cab (R655 000) and Sport Super Cab EcoBoost (R735 000) follow. Wildtrak Super Cab V6 (R865 000) adds premium capability. Double Cab options start with XL (R621 000), moving to XLT (R699 500), Sport EcoBoost (R839 600), Wildtrak EcoBoost (R899 000), Sport V6 (R995 000), Tremor V6 (R1 039 000), Wildtrak V6 (R1 070 000), Platinum V6 (R1 179 500) and Raptor twin turbo petrol (R1 299 000).
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I have bad reflexes. I was once run over by a car being pushed by two guys
Woody Allen
Mercedes-Benz has expanded its long-haul range in South Africa with two specialised heavy-haul models, the Arocs 4863AS/48 SLT and the Actros 4058S/39.
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