Like all 4WD enthusiasts, we were waiting on tenterhooks for the Ford Ranger Super Duty announcement, and let’s just say that excitement certainly has not dimmed! Due to be released in early 2026, Ford is playing their cards very close to their chest and there is still plenty of mystery around the 4.5t GVM boasting mid-sized ute. Together, let’s look at what we do know and start asking those vital questions around what we don’t know.
What Is The Ford Ranger Super Duty?
The Ranger Super Duty takes everything we love about the current-generation Ranger and turns it up a notch—literally. It’s expected to be Ford’s most heavy-duty Ranger platform yet, bringing Super Duty capability into a mid-sized ute form factor. Think increased payload, bigger towing capacity, and upgraded chassis engineering.
Designed and engineered right here in Australia, the Super Duty calls back to a time of “Ford Tough” Aussie vehicles that went the distance. With Australia’s history and passion for making their vehicles an extension of their personality and an anchor to their lifestyle, Ford has truly listened to the needs and wants of their consumer base.
With Ford celebrating their centenary in Australia, it seems a powerful message to announce the Super Duty as being built with Aussie conditions and needs in mind. A true collaboration between Ford global and Ford Australia, this marks the first time that the Super Duty plate has been attached to any vehicle other than the “F-Series” of pickup trucks.
What Makes It Unique?
What sets the Ranger Super Duty apart is its unapologetically heavy-duty design. Expect beefed-up suspension, higher GVM ratings, and other enhancements tailored to serious work and touring applications. It’s clear Ford is targeting the growing market of drivers who want more out of their dual-cab ute without stepping into a full-size American truck.
The Super Duty is overpowered, over capable and overwhelmingly unique on the market. Challenging the current status quo, this vehicle is going to give you the capacity to tow more and go further, without losing all the benefits of a mid-size ute – like being able to fit in the carpark of your local woollies.
Powered by a familiar face, the 3.0L V6 Turbo Diesel engine known from the Ranger line-up is slated to be the engine of choice. While we’re still far enough out from production that changes are possible, Ford’s website states that “it’s been specially calibrated and paired with a redesigned cooling system to help maintain optimal performance under heavy loads.” We’re keen to see what this will look like in terms of power and torque.
With such an impressive foundation, imaginations are certainly running wild. Whether you’re looking for a fleet vehicle or a new beaut tourer, the question on everyone’s lips – is the aftermarket industry ready?
Is the Aftermarket and Modification Industry Ready?
The short answer is a resounding yes. You might be wondering “How are so many businesses confident that they are ready to release modifications for a car that hasn’t been released yet?” Well, there are a couple of things that we can give insight to today.
Ford has a range of QVM (Qualified Vehicle Modifier) Certified businesses that work collaboratively with Ford to create products that uphold Ford’s stringent safety and quality standards. If you’d like to learn more, you can read our blog on how MITS Alloy became QVM Certified. As a QVM certified business, Ford provides early access to new Ford models, to allow for collaboration on future product development.
Ford has also announced their new Ford Pro™ Convertor program, which allows select businesses direct access to unreleased models to create a suite of solutions that can be ordered direct from the dealership.
What is a Ford Pro™ Convertor?
Announced this year, we don’t have too many details on the new Ford Pro™ Convertor program. Recognising premium convertors across Australia, the Ford Pro™ Convertor program is promised to be launched later this year. Who knows, you might even see some familiar names on the list…
What we do know, is that these convertors will be integrated in the Ford Dealer network in order to easily deliver high-quality, reliable solutions for Ford customers. All convertors are reported to have undergone rigorous assessment in order to qualify for the program. Ford has always valued customer experience and they are guarding their warranty and promise of quality closely – meaning that you can be guaranteed superior service and products by these certified convertors.
How Does MITS Fit in?
As a Ford QVM partner, we’re been working behind the scenes to begin working on our Ranger Super Duty packages. There’s a lot that we can’t say just yet, but what we can tell you is our proven track record of high quality, cutting edge trays and canopies speak for themselves. Designed by Aussies who put their vehicles and tools through the absolute ringer in some of the toughest environments – just like the Ranger Super Duty – MITS Alloy Trays and Canopies are durable, lightweight and effortlessly tough. Whether you’re looking for the ultimate touring set up, a balance of gear and practicality for tough tracks or a dedicated tradie solution, we’ve got something to suit you.
