Ford refreshes Ranger bakkie line up with new engines
Posted: 16 Apr 2026
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Author: Reuben van Niekerk
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4min read
The new Ford Ranger model range comprises of 23 derivatives across single cab, super cab and double cab body styles. The variety within the line up ensures that customers can select a Ranger that perfectly matches their requirements, whether prioritising affordability, capability, performance or premium comfort.
The new Ford Ranger model range comprises of 23 derivatives across single cab, super cab and double cab body styles. The variety within the line up ensures that customers can select a Ranger that perfectly matches their requirements, whether prioritising affordability, capability, performance or premium comfort.
Ford have treated their popular Ranger to an extensive update to ensure that its model range continues to meet the diverse needs of South African customers.
The new Ford Ranger model range comprises of 23 derivatives across single cab, super cab and double cab body styles. The variety within the line up ensures that customers can select a Ranger that perfectly matches their requirements, whether prioritising affordability, capability, performance or premium comfort.
The biggest change is the addition of a new engine option along with important powertrain enhancements.
Ford South Africa has sourced a 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol engine from their global portfolio and tuned it specifically for fitment in the locally produced Ranger. This engine delivers an impressive 222kW of power and 452Nm of torque and will appeal to customers seeking athletic on-road performance and refinement.
Ford have also broadened the availability of their 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel engine across selected models in the range, which has become well-loved for its combination of performance, smoothness and towing capability. The result is the introduction of the new Ranger Sport.
In addition the 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, turbo diesel engine has been upgraded with a new timing chain that has been designed to enhance durability, simplify maintenance and provide long-term performance.
These engine updates are complemented by the standardisation of Ford’s advanced 10-speed automatic transmission across all automatic models, ensuring smoother shifting and optimised torque delivery.
Ranger Sport
One of the most notable additions to the line-up is the introduction of the Ranger Sport, which joins the range between the XLT and Wildtrak models.
This model has been designed for customers seeking a dual-purpose and feature packed Ranger. The Ranger Sport will be available with the 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol engine in 4x2 specification and in 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel specification paired to the 4x4 drivetrain. Both variants are equipped with Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission.
Wildtrak and Tremor
Going forward the Wildtrak double cab 4x2 will be fitted with the new 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol engine while the Wildtrak double cab 4x4 retains the 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel engine which produces 184kW and 600Nm.
Both the Wildtrak Super Cab 4x4 and the Ranger Tremor Double Cab 4x4 will be fitted with the 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel engine, replacing the outgoing 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo diesel.
Wildtrak X no longer a stand-alone model
Ford’s Wildtrak X will no longer be offered as a stand-alone derivative, but this package will allow customers to choose their level of off-road intensity and has been custom engineered to complement the Wildtrak’s premium features and performance.
Value for money XLT
The Ford Ranger XLT remains a key model in the line-up and is particularly well suited to both fleet customers and leisure buyers who demand a balance of capability, technology and value. XLT specification will continue to be offered in super cab and double cab body styles and is powered by the upgraded 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, which produces 125kW and 405Nm in conjunction with a 10-speed automatic transmission in both 4x2 and 4x4 guise.
Ranger XL
In response to evolving market needs, Ford has streamlined the entry-level Ranger offering with the Ranger XL series becoming the primary choice for customers prioritising affordability, efficiency and low operating costs.
The Ranger XL will feature the same upgraded 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine as the XLT and single cab customers will be able to choose between 4x2 and 4x4 and a 10-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission.
The XL Super Cab will be offered exclusively with the automatic transmission, available in 4x2 and 4x4 configurations. The XL double-cab will be available in manual or automatic as well as 4x2 and 4x4.
Premium and performance flagships remain
The luxurious Ranger Platinum continues to offer enhanced levels of comfort, refinement and technology while selected specification and feature enhancements across the range will also provide additional value, improved connectivity, greater practicality and enhanced safety.
The Ranger Raptor continues to define what a performance bakkie should be. Engineered for high-performance off-road driving it features a race-developed suspension system and is powered by a 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged V6 petrol engine that delivers 292kW and 583Nm, ensuring that it remains one of the most capable and exhilarating performance bakkies on the market today.
Shop for a Ford Ranger safely and conveniently via the Motus Select website today