As it is, the Ford Ranger is a capable pickup. It has a payload of over 1,000kg, can wade deep floods, has proven off-road capabilities, and can tow up to 3,500kg. It’s really more than enough for a lot of people.
But there are those who really need more out of their trucks. One option is to get a full-sized model from the US, but it’s not exactly the most practical proposition given the bulk. Ford’s ‘in-between’ solution? Build a heavy-duty Ranger instead.
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You might recall that Ford trademarked the name Ranger Super Duty a few months ago. We can now confirm that it’ll be a real model following a teaser released in Australia recently. With that, it’s the first time the Super Duty badge has been applied to a Ford pickup that isn’t part of the F-Series line.
The Ford Ranger Super Duty is set to be revealed soon for the 2026 model year. This version of the Ranger is primarily for end users who require a more focused work vehicle, such as emergency services, agriculture, construction, and other fleets that demand more from their pickups.
So, how heavy duty are we talking here? Let’s just say that it will carry and tow more than the standard Ranger that already does quite a lot. Towing capacity is rated at 4,500kg, maximum gross vehicle weight (GVWR) is also 4,500kg, and maximum vehicle weight with load and towing is a whopping 8,000kg. We’re also expecting a payload capacity of well over 1,000kg.
Ford hasn’t mentioned what kind of changes and upgrades were made to turn the Ranger into a Super Duty. That said, we reckon a beefier suspension arrangement, reinforcements to the chassis, and harder wearing components were added to the truck. The Ranger Super Duty is said to be available in a variety of body styles and configurations to suit specific needs.
Ranger Dually, anyone? It might actually happen.
