Refreshed 2026 Ford Ranger drops 2.0L bi-turbo diesel engine

Updated Ford Ranger T6.2 revealed with more standard kit in Australia

With the arrival of the all-new Toyota Hilux and Triton-based Nissan Navara, Ford is putting out all the stops to keep the competition at bay. Even before the year ends, Ford has decided to launch the 2026 Ranger, and boy, did it get some key upgrades.

For its latest update, Ford has dropped the 2.0L bi-turbo diesel engine for the 2026 model year. This confirms our previous report wherein the Blue Oval would discontinue the bi-turbo engine for the pickup truck (and Everest). With it, the 2026 Ranger will only be available with two engine options.

First is an upgraded version of the 2.0L turbo-diesel (single) engine that now has a timing chain instead of a wet timing belt, along with an updated fuel injection system. It makes 170 PS along with 405 Nm of torque. Ford did not say why they discontinued the bi-turbo version, although this could be due to tightening emissions, as well as the controversy behind the wet timing belt that supposedly causes premature failures and oil contamination due to the wet belt design.

The 2026 Ford Everest also drops the 2.0L bi-turbo diesel engine in favor of the new & improved single-turbo version of the 2.0L engine by Ford.

Above the 2.0L turbo-diesel engine is the bigger 3.0L turbo-diesel Powerstroke V6. It puts out a healthy 250 PS along with a generous 600 Nm. It’s available as an option for the 2026 Ranger for those who want more oomph from their turbo-diesel engines. Like the 2.0L version, the 3.0L V6 is paired to a 10-speed automatic gearbox that’s available in either RWD or 4WD guises.

Design-wise, the 2026 Ford Ranger still looks sleek and fresh. However, certain variants now have gloss accents instead of shiny chrome bits for an updated appearance. This can be seen in the Wolftrak variant that trades shiny accents for black, which is present on the grille and 17-inch alloy wheels. It also has a unique sports bar in the back that makes the Wolftrak stand out.

There are also more standard features across the 2026 Ranger lineup. For starters, the 12-inch tablet-like touchscreen system is now available in the XLS, including dual-zone climate control. This particular variant now also comes with side steps, 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires, and carpet floor mats, for Australia at least. Meanwhile, the XLT has been equipped with a heavy-duty suspension for when the going gets tough.

Moving to the Wildtrak variant, this version now comes with new 18-inch alloy wheels, Matrix LED headlights, and a 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system that’s now fitted as standard.

With the 2026 Ford Ranger getting an updated engine lineup and more standard amenities across the range, we’re curious as to when Ford Philippines plans to bring the refreshed pickup to the Philippines. More importantly, will the Philippine market also stop getting the 2.0L bi-turbo diesel engine and just offer the 2026 Ranger with the improved single turbo version of the 2.0L diesel powerplant?

Watch this space.