Ford’s Australian division has officially confirmed that the highly anticipated first-ever Ford Ranger Super Duty will be unveiled on 4 April. This new model aims to bridge the gap between the standard Ranger and the full-sized F-150, bringing a more capable and heavy-duty option to Ford’s lineup.
What We Know So Far
Dubbed “the toughest Ranger ever made,” the Super Duty marks a significant evolution since the Ranger became a standalone model in 1982, no longer an F-Series trim. Among the confirmed specifications, the Super Duty boasts an impressive towing capacity of 4,500 kg, a gross vehicle mass (GVM) of 4,500 kg, and a gross combined mass (GCM) exceeding 8,000 kg. This surpasses the towing capability of any existing Ranger by 1,000 kg, and speculation suggests it may also feature a higher payload capacity than the current double cab workhorse model, which carries a 1,063 kg payload.
Spy shots from January revealed a test unit in Australia equipped with a single chassis cab, a dropside load bin, a snorkel, and robust 18-inch steel wheels with eight studs, wrapped in 33-inch all-terrain tires. Since then, additional sightings have been reported in the United States, showing a double chassis cab variant, and more recently in Europe, where a SuperCab version was spotted sporting a wider track and a reinforced front bumper, reminiscent of the Ranger Tremor.
Key Features of the Ford Ranger Super Duty
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Towing Capacity | 4,500 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) | 4,500 kg |
| Gross Combined Mass (GCM) | Over 8,000 kg |
| Wheel Size | 18-inch steel wheels |
| Tire Type | 33-inch all-terrain tires |
| Chassis Type | Single and double chassis cab options |
| Load Bin | Dropside load bin |
| Additional Features | Snorkel, reinforced chassis, wider track |
Expected Powertrain Options
While Ford has yet to disclose further technical details, it is anticipated that the Super Duty will retain the same powertrains as the standard Ranger, with some exclusions. The single-turbo 2.0-liter Panther diesel (125 kW/405 Nm) is unlikely to feature in the lineup due to its lower output. More probable options include:
- A 2.0-liter bi-turbo diesel delivering 154 kW/500 Nm
- A 3.0-liter Lion V6 diesel producing 184 kW/600 Nm
On the other hand, the high-performance 3.0-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 (292 kW/583 Nm) from the Raptor variant is considered an unlikely inclusion.
Design and Performance Enhancements
Beyond its raw power and towing capabilities, the Ranger Super Duty is expected to feature a reinforced chassis to accommodate its increased payload and towing capacity. A raised ground clearance will likely enhance its off-road capability, making it a more versatile workhorse.
In terms of aesthetics, the Super Duty is anticipated to sport a chunkier, more aggressive stance with a robust front bumper, black door handles, and a wider front and rear track similar to the Ranger Tremor. These design elements indicate a strong focus on durability and rugged performance, appealing to both commercial users and off-road enthusiasts.
Market Positioning and Competition
The introduction of the Ranger Super Duty is expected to shake up the midsize pickup segment by offering a vehicle that caters to heavy-duty needs without stepping into full-size truck territory. By positioning itself between the standard Ranger and the F-150, Ford aims to attract customers looking for superior towing and payload capabilities without the bulk of a full-sized truck.
With competitors like the Nissan Navara Pro-4X Warrior and Toyota Hilux GR Sport gaining traction, the Ranger Super Duty’s unveiling comes at a crucial time. If it delivers on performance and durability, it could establish itself as a leader in the heavy-duty midsize truck category.
Stay Tuned for More
While official specifications remain limited, additional details and images may surface leading up to the official reveal. With its reinforced chassis, increased ground clearance, and significant towing capabilities, the Ranger Super Duty is set to redefine what a midsize truck can accomplish. Be sure to follow the unveiling on 4 April to see what Ford has in store for this groundbreaking model.
Related article: Ranger vs Hilux vs D-Max: Which One Is Your Fighter?
