Following a complete redesign in 2026, the Ranger heads into this model year with virtually no changes. Even so, it remains a dominant force in the midsize truck class. Find out how the Ford Ranger matches up against one of its chief rivals, the Honda Ridgeline, so you know which is the best midsize truck for everyday driving.
Key Takeaways:
- Properly configured Ranger models can tow a maximum of 7,500 pounds.
- The 2026 Ford Ranger offers two robust engine options to the Ridgeline's one.
- The Ford Ranger comes in three budget-friendly trim levels.
- Ford extensively redesigned Ranger models in 2025; there are no modifications for 2026.
Because the Ranger received major updates just last year, the 2026 model is business as usual. As of June 12, 2026, its available trims are:
- XL: $37,470
- XLT: $35,445
- Lariat: $45,850
Honda's Ridgeline also has minimal adjustments. Buyers can now opt for a black roof on Black Edition models, while the rugged TrailSport trim gains a unique Ash Green Metallic exterior paint choice. Trims are otherwise the same.
- Sport: $40,795
- RTL: $43,595
- TrailSport: $45,995
- TrailSport+ (HPD Wheels): $47,195
- Black Edition: $47,395
- Black Edition Two-Tone: $47,895
2026 Ford Ranger and Ridgeline Engines and Towing
The standard Ranger engine is a 270 hp 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. For a serious boost in performance, there's also an available 315-hp 2.7-liter twin-turbo V6. It comes exclusively with 4WD, while the base four-cylinder pairs with either RWD or 4WD configurations. Both engines route through a 10-speed automatic. The Ridgeline features a 280-hp 3.5-liter V-6 engine that pairs with a 9-speed automatic and AWD.
When configured with the standard four-cylinder, the Ranger can tow up to 7,500 pounds and haul up to 1,788 pounds. The V6 maintains that towing limit, but the payload drops to 1,542 pounds. By comparison, the Ridgeline maxes out at 5,000 pounds for towing with a 1,583-pound max payload rating.
Powertrains and Towing
| 2026 Ford Ranger |
2026 Honda Ridgeline |
| 2.3L turbo I4: 2.7L twin-turbo V6 |
3.5-liter V-6 |
| 10-speed automatic |
9-speed automatic |
| RWD or 4WD for turbo 44WD for V6 |
AWD |
| 7,500-pound towing capacity w/1,542 pound payload |
5,000-pound towing capacity w/1,583 pound payload |
What is the Fuel Economy of the 2026 Ford Ranger?
Efficiency estimates are 21 mpg city / 26 mpg highway for RWD and 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway with 4WD.
The Ridgeline gets 18 mpg city / 24 mpg highway; the TrailSport is 1 mpg behind at 23 mpg highway.
2026 Ranger vs. Ridgeline in Tech and Infotainment
The Ranger's entry-level XL and mid-tier XLT trims feature a 10.1-inch central touchscreen and 8.0-inch digital gauge cluster. Stepping up to the luxury-minded Lariat upgrades the cabin with a 12.0-inch central layout and a 12.4-inch cluster (these screens are also available as optional add-ons for the XLT). The SYNC 4 software platform is the star of the show. It features wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a highly functional exterior zone lighting system.
The Ridgeline's standard 9.0-inch touchscreen supports wireless smartphone integration. Honda includes a wireless device charging pad across all trim levels, while built-in navigation is standard on the TrailSport and Black Edition models.
Why Choose the 2026 Ford Ranger?
If your goal is to find a midsize pickup truck that blends pure capability with aggressive modern styling for a more affordable price, the Ford Ranger will check all your boxes. Give us a call or send our team a message today at Brighton Ford--we can't wait to get you behind the wheel of your next new Ford pickup!
