Ford’s best-selling Ranger will be available with plug-in hybrid power in Australia next year, providing an alternative to diesel across several of the ute’s existing trim levels.
Rather than reserve the Ranger’s plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system for a single and expensive range-topping grade, Ford has taken a similar approach to Toyota’s mild-hybrid HiLux V-Active by offering the technology across much of its core lineup.
This includes the Ranger XLT, Sport and Wildtrak, all of which are currently available with both bi-turbo 2.0-litre and single-turbo 3.0-litre V6 engines. It’s likely the PHEV drivetrain will only be available in dual-cab pickup guise.
On top of the three existing grades, a new Stormtrak variant will join the range as a PHEV-exclusive flagship.
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Ranger Stormtrak
This includes Stormtrak-specific Chill Grey paint, and unique 18-inch wheels, grille, wheel arch vents and decals.
It also gets some features from the Wildtrak’s $2000 Premium Pack – such as matrix LED headlights and a 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen – plus the $2800 Flexible Rack System.
Ford is yet to announce pricing for the Ranger PHEV, though it’s expected to come at a premium compared to the V6 turbo-diesel versions of equivalent dual-cab pickup variants.
For context, the Ranger XLT tops out at $68,840 before on-road costs, the Sport V6 starts from $71,340 before on-road costs and the most expensive Wildtrak is $74,840 before on-road costs.
The Ford Ranger PHEV is powered by a turbocharged 2.3-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, with a 75kW electric motor sandwiched between it and the 10-speed automatic transmission.
Ford is targeting 45km of electric-only driving range, allowing owners to complete short journeys without burning any fuel.
Drivers will be able to switch between four drivetrain modes for the best-suited engine and electric motor usage: Auto EV, EV Now, EV Later and EV Charge.
All Ranger PHEVs retain the turbo-diesel model’s 3500kg towing capacity.
The electrified ute is also the only offering in the Ranger lineup to include external power outlets, consisting of a 2.3kW (2300W) outlet in the cabin and two 3.45kW (3450W) outlets in the bed.
All examples of the Ranger PHEV will be built in South Africa due to tooling constraints in Thailand, incurring a five per cent import duty as we don’t have a free-trade agreement with the nation.
Australian deliveries are due to begin in 2025.
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