The 2026 Ford Ranger Super Duty launches in Australia with a base MSRP of $82,990 AUS before on-road costs for the Single Cab-Chassis model, though this doesn’t include a tray or bed. When fully equipped with trays and on-road costs, the total investment approaches the $100,000 mark, positioning it as a premium workhorse in the mid-size truck category.
The Ranger Super Duty delivers unprecedented capability with a 4500kg braked towing capacity, 4500kg gross vehicle mass (GVM), and massive 8000kg gross combined mass (GCM). These specifications place it in direct competition with full-size American trucks while maintaining the more manageable proportions of a mid-size platform.
Ranger Super Duty Australian Engineering Excellence
This new model was developed by Ford’s IMG Product Development team, led by a 1,500-strong group of designers, engineers and specialists in Australia. The vehicle represents a uniquely Australian solution to local market demands, with extensive input from fleet customers across various industries.
The development process involved comprehensive consultation with emergency service operators, farmers, utilities and forestry workers, miners, and infrastructure technicians. This collaborative approach ensures the Super Duty addresses real-world requirements rather than theoretical capabilities.
Revolutionary Design Features Set New Standards
Heavy-Duty Chassis and Drivetrain
Ford strengthened the Ranger where it counts to deliver class-leading towing and hauling, with a heavy-duty chassis, new suspension, upgraded axles, and thicker driveshafts. The reinforced platform enables the truck to handle significantly heavier loads than its standard Ranger siblings.
The chassis modifications include thicker rails and reinforced mounting points for suspension, tow bars, and auxiliary equipment. Within the heavy-duty chassis rails, a 130-litre fuel tank runs the length of the car, built so tough you can support the weight of the truck on it.
Eight-Stud Wheel Configuration
A standout feature borrowed from Ford’s full-size Super Duty trucks is the eight-stud wheel hub configuration. The Ranger Super Duty has scored the eight-stud wheel hubs from the F-Series Super Duty. In Australia, you need to buy a Ram 2500/3500 or Chevrolet Silverado HD to get these features. This upgrade significantly improves load distribution and durability under extreme conditions.
The wheel configuration supports 33-inch all-terrain tires, providing enhanced ground clearance and off-road capability. With up to 299mm ground clearance, front and rear locking differentials, and extensive underbody protection, Ranger Super Duty can take you to the most remote places for the toughest work.
Comprehensive Model Range Addresses Diverse Needs
Initial Launch Models
The Ford Ranger Super Duty will launch in early 2026 with Single, Super or Double Cab-Chassis models arriving first and priced from $82,990 to $89,990 plus on-road costs. These work-focused variants target commercial users who require maximum utility and capability.
The pricing structure for chassis models includes:
- Single Cab-Chassis: $82,990
- Super Cab-Chassis: $86,480
- Double Cab-Chassis: $89,990
Premium XLT Variant
Launching mid-2026, the XLT is built for those who demand long-distance capability with refined comfort, featuring exclusive alloy wheels, touring-focused upgrades, and premium touches made for serious adventure. This variant bridges the gap between commercial utility and recreational capability.
Advanced Technology Integration
Smart Features and Safety Systems
Ranger Super Duty brings the comfort, smart tech, and driver-assist features you know from Ranger like the SYNC4 touchscreen and 360-degree camera. The integration of advanced technology ensures operators don’t sacrifice modern conveniences for enhanced capability.
The Ford Ranger Super Duty features a 12-inch infotainment screen with auxiliary switches located in the overhead console. For those needing to use larger screens or devices, an optional Integrated Device Mounting system can be installed on the passenger side, supporting devices up to 4kg.
Onboard Scales Technology
A particularly innovative feature is the integration of onboard scales, allowing operators to monitor payload in real-time. This technology helps prevent overloading while maximizing efficiency, particularly valuable for commercial operations where precise load management is critical.
Competitive Positioning and Market Impact
Challenging Established Players
Ford is looking straight at the LandCruiser 79 Series with the Super Duty, as it will fill the space currently dominated by the venerable Toyota workhorse. The Super Duty offers modern refinements and factory-backed capability that traditional competitors require aftermarket modifications to achieve.
The truck’s specifications exceed many full-size competitors in key metrics. The Ranger Super Duty somehow manages to outgun all those non-HD full-sizers in those three critical metrics, not to mention all of its midsize segment rivals.
Ranger Super Duty Value Proposition
Despite the premium pricing, the Super Duty offers compelling value through its comprehensive capability package. With upgrades you’d normally add later now coming standard and backed by a five-year factory warranty, buyers avoid the complexity and potential reliability issues associated with aftermarket modifications.
Powertrain and Performance
The Ford Ranger Super Duty is equipped with Ford’s 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel engine which has been uniquely calibrated for its use in the Super Duty and to meet stringent EUVI heavy-duty vehicle emissions requirements. In the Super Duty, the powerplant will generate 154kW and 600Nm.
The engine calibration maintains full torque output with peak torque generated at just 1750rpm, optimizing performance for heavy-duty applications. This low-end torque characteristic proves essential for towing and hauling scenarios.
Future Outlook and Industry Implications
The Ranger Super Duty represents Ford’s commitment to the Australian commercial vehicle market and demonstrates the company’s ability to develop region-specific solutions. Ford is headed toward attaining an almost unassailable advantage in the mid-sized ute segment with this comprehensive approach to capability enhancement.
The vehicle’s development timeline positions it perfectly to capitalize on growing demand for versatile commercial vehicles that can handle both work and recreational duties without compromise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will the Ford Ranger Super Duty be available in Australia? A: Early 2026 for cab-chassis models, with pickup and XLT variants following mid-2026.
Q: What makes the Super Duty different from a standard Ranger? A: Heavy-duty chassis, eight-stud wheels, 4500kg towing capacity, reinforced drivetrain, and 33-inch tires as standard equipment.
Q: Is the $100K price justified for a mid-size truck? A: The comprehensive factory modifications, five-year warranty coverage, and capabilities exceeding many full-size trucks provide strong value proposition for commercial users.