The 2026 Ford Ranger Super Duty represents a significant leap in capability for the popular ute, offering unmatched towing and payload capacity. While the price tag is steep, it’s a worthwhile investment for professionals who demand serious performance. This review examines the Super Duty Double Cab Chassis in real-world conditions, breaking down costs, interior features, and on-road behavior.
Pricing: Capability Comes at a Cost
The Super Duty commands a premium. Skipping the upgrade means saving tens of thousands, but for those needing maximum capacity, the extra expense may be justified. The Super Duty receives underbody modifications for higher towing and payload limits – making it the most capable Ranger to date. Cab/chassis models don’t include a tray, and customization is available directly through Ford with accessory warranty coverage.
Interior: Work-Focused or Premium?
The base Super Duty prioritizes function over luxury. Rubber flooring, manual seats with cloth trim, and the absence of standard floor mats reflect its work-oriented design. The XLT model improves comfort with heated/ventilated seats, electric adjustment, and carpeted floors.
Despite the base model’s austerity, it offers practical features like pop-out cupholders, wireless phone charging, a sizable center console, and bottle holsters. Auxiliary overhead switches cater to users with custom lighting or equipment. A 12-inch portrait touchscreen with sat-nav, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and digital radio is standard, while the OnBoard Scale system helps manage payload limits.
The Super Duty retains the Ranger’s family-friendly practicality in dual-cab models. Rear passengers have ample legroom, and the seats include top-tether points for child seats. Additional storage includes under-seat compartments and dash-top boxes. The high bed height may require a step for shorter users.
Engine Performance: Power with a Trade-Off
The Super Duty is exclusive to the Ranger’s V6 diesel, though with a slight power reduction to 154kW (from 184kW in the standard V6). Torque remains strong at 600Nm, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and full-time four-wheel drive. The engine delivers ample grunt for towing and hauling but doesn’t feel significantly down on power in daily driving.
Fuel economy is not officially rated as an N2 light commercial vehicle, but real-world tests show around 13.5L/100km, which is not ideal.
Driving Experience: Solid and Capable
The Super Duty delivers a planted and stable driving experience thanks to its wider track width and grippier General Grabber tires. The ride is firmer than standard Rangers but still more refined than some work-focused competitors like the Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series.
Steering is well-weighted and precise, making the Super Duty surprisingly easy to maneuver despite its size. The safety tech is well-integrated, with adjustable lane-keeping assist and a non-intrusive speed sign recognition system.
Overall, the Super Duty offers a strong driving experience with excellent powertrain performance and solid handling. Reliability remains a question mark, but the Ranger has proven itself to be a very capable machine.
Standard Features: Equipped for Work
The Super Duty comes with a comprehensive suite of standard equipment, including automatic LED headlights, LED fog lights, rain-sensing wipers, proximity entry, and an 18-inch steel wheel set with all-terrain tires. Safety features include autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot assist, lane departure warning, and a surround-view camera system.
Safety Rating
The current Ranger has a five-star ANCAP safety rating. The Super Duty hasn’t been tested independently but includes the same safety gear as other models. The Super Duty is equipped with nine airbags and comprehensive safety systems.
Running Costs
Ford offers a five-year, unlimited-kilometer warranty. Service intervals are every 12 months or 15,000km.
Conclusion: The 2026 Ford Ranger Super Duty is a no-compromise workhorse that delivers unmatched capability. While the price is high, it’s a justifiable investment for those who need maximum towing and payload capacity. The Super Duty’s solid build, capable engine, and practical features make it the ultimate tool for demanding jobs.
