- Ford readying to scrub 2.0-litre diesel engine from Ranger roster
- Changes set to come in 2026
- 3.0-litre V6 will still be available
- Additional plug-in hybrid powertrain will be rolled out instead
Ford is making a significant change to its Ranger pick-up line-up, with the long-serving 2.0-litre diesel engine set to be axed in early 2026.
In its place, Ford is rolling out a new plug-in hybrid model, offering more power, lower emissions, and the ability to cover a daily drive on electricity alone.
According to Professional Pickup, future Ranger buyers will have a choice of just two powertrains: the new 2.3-litre petrol-electric plug-in hybrid, or the range-topping 3.0-litre V6 diesel. Unless, of course, you’re in the market for a fire-breathing Raptor model, which will retain its 3.0-litre petrol powerplant.
The decision is a major shift for the UK’s best-selling pick-up. The 2.0-litre EcoBlue engine has powered the Ranger since 2018 and is currently found in most models, from the workhorse XL trim to the stylish Wildtrak X.
A plug-in pick-up?
The new Ranger Plug-in Hybrid combines a 2.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor and battery, producing 281hp and a hefty 697Nm of torque. That’s more than any diesel-powered Ranger — even the V6 — and just a fraction behind the high-performance Raptor.
An 11.8kWh battery pack provides enough energy for up to 27 miles of emissions-free motoring, making it a strong fit for local delivery or collection runs, job sites in clean air zones, or even school drop-offs.
Most importantly, the PHEV version will still offer the full one-tonne payload and 3,500kg towing capacity of the diesel Ranger, so it’s still very much a working vehicle.
Why the change?
Although recent tax changes have made double-cab pickups less appealing for company car drivers, Ford’s decision to phase out the 2.0-litre diesel is more about hitting emissions targets.
With diesel versions like the Wildtrak emitting over 230g/km of CO₂, the new plug-in hybrid slashes that figure to just 72g/km, helping Ford avoid hefty EU fines for missing fleet average limits.
What about the V6?
The 3.0-litre V6 diesel isn’t going anywhere. It remains available in higher-spec trims such as Wildtrak and Platinum, delivering 240hp and 600Nm of torque for those who still need serious muscle and do long-distance driving.
When will the diesel go?
The new Ranger Plug-in Hybrid is starting to land at Ford dealers now, with the first customer deliveries expected imminently. Production of 2.0-litre diesel models will wind down in early 2026, so if you want to lease a diesel Ranger, there’s still time — but not much.
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