New Models / 1 April 2026 / Warren Hawkins

Massive update for the Ford Ranger in South Africa – Including a new engine and model

Ford has announced a series of major upgrades to its Ranger models in South Africa, including not only a massive engine line-up change, but also an all-new model.

The American automaker has made the call to refresh its Silverton-assembled Ranger range to continue to meet the diverse needs of its local clientele.

Its new, expanded line-up now comprises no less than 23 derivatives across single-cab, super-cab, and double-cab body options, spanning from entry-level workhorses to top-spec performance and adventure bakkies.

This expanded range now includes a specially tuned 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol engine option, which will appeal to customers seeking on-road performance instead of off-road ruggedness.

Alongside a complete engine overhaul is the launch of the Ranger Sport, a new slotting in between the XLT derivative and the Wildtrak models.

What to expect from the updated Ranger line-up

The biggest change Ford is implementing is the overhaul of its powertrain options.

Introducing the specially-refined 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol motor, which produces 222kW and 452Nm, as an engine option has shaken up the entire range.

This new motor will be fitted to the all-new Ranger Sport in its 4×2 variant, as well as the 4×2 version of the double-cab Wildtrak.

The former will also be available in super-cab and double-cab configurations, allowing buyers to opt for the 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel engine, producing 184kW and 600Nm, to be paired with a 4×4 drivetrain.

This configuration will remain the same in the all-wheel-drive Wildtrack derivatives, while the 4×4 super-cab Wildtrack and Tremor will also see the outgoing 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel replaced by the same 3.0-litre V6.

Alongside these updates, the 2.0-litre single-turbo diesel engine has received an overhaul that includes an all-new timing chain, specifically designed to enhance durability and simplify maintenance.

This upgraded motor will be fitted to the XLT line-up and paired with the 10-speed automatic transmission. Customers will also be able to select either 4×2 or 4×4 drivetrains.

The powertrain shuffle allows the Ranger XL to keep its focus on business customers, with Ford streamlining its entry-level offering to feature the same upgraded 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine as the XLT.

Single-cab customers will be able to choose between two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive configurations paired with the 10-speed automatic transmission, while a 6-speed manual will also be available.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, at the top of the range, the Ranger Platinum and Raptor will retain their 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel and 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged V6 petrol, respectively.

This expands the bakkie’s engine options to include the following:

2.0-litre single-turbo diesel – 125kW/405Nm
2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol – 222kW/452Nm
3.0 turbo diesel – 184kW/600Nm
3.0 twin-turbo petrol – 292kW/583Nm

Ford also confirmed that it has standardised its automatic offerings, meaning all automatic models will be fitted with its advanced 10-speed transmission.

“Ranger remains the benchmark for practicality, capability, and refinement. We are delivering more performance and better technology to more customers,” says Sunil Sewmohan, Director of Product Marketing, Ford South Africa.

“Whether it’s used as a workhorse, a family vehicle, for leisure activities or for tackling challenging off-road terrain, the Ranger is one of the most capable and versatile vehicles in its class.

“With these updates, we have focused on building on Ranger’s trusted reputation for exceptional performance, efficiency, technology and safety, while raising the bar further in key areas such as capability, choice and excitement.”

In streamlining the line-up, Ford has chosen to discontinue the Wildtrak X, which will no longer be offered as a standalone derivative, but rather as an optional package.