HIGHLIGHTS
- Ranger and Everest receive a design refresh and cascading of key features such as 12-inch infotainment screens now available on all variants.
- Refined Everest line-up with new Active entry model
- New Trailer Connection Alert, a NZ first, now available on select models
Ford New Zealand says it is proud to announce that the highly anticipated 2026.5 Ford Ranger and Ford Everest models are arriving this month at dealerships across the country.
Representing the latest evolution, the 2026.5 line-up introduces significant enhancements with a primary focus on powertrain efficiency, technology, and refined performance, says Ford.
A Variant for Every Adventure
Ford claims the 2026.5 release sees a streamlined and enhanced variant structure, ensuring there is a vehicle perfectly suited for the farm, the worksite, or the school run.
The Ranger Line-up
The 2026.5 Ranger continues to lead with the rugged XL and XLT, now featuring improved interior materials and updated SYNC® technology. The Tremor and Wildtrak variants return as the ultimate versatile performers, blending off-road capability with premium comfort, says Ford. A new series, Ranger Wolftrak, has been introduced with the 2026.5 model year, with the head-turning limited-edition model introducing a new hero colour, Traction Green.
The Everest Line-up
Ford claims the 2026.5 Everest range is designed for the modern family. The new Active provides 7-seat versatility, available with the 2.0L powertrain, the Everest Active will feature as standard; leather accented seats, a 12-inch infotainment screen, 18-inch alloy wheels, privacy glass, tyre pressure monitoring system, LED headlamps and more. Sport, Wildtrak and Platinum will continue as ongoing variants in the Everest lineup. The Everest Sport will be available with both 2.0L and 3.0L powertrains, while Wildtrak and Platinum are offered exclusively with the V6. There’s an updated array of colours, including new additions Acacia Green and Alabaster White.
Efficiency Without Compromise
The transition to the 2026.5 Model Year marks a significant shift in Ford’s powertrain strategy for the Ranger in New Zealand.
“The arrival of the 2026.5 models marks a pivotal moment for Ford in New Zealand,” says Mathew Slade, Marketing Director, Ford New Zealand. “We know our customers are looking for ways to drive more efficiently without giving up the capability that defines the Ranger and Everest. With these latest updates, we’ve delivered a vehicle that is smarter, leaner, and more capable than ever before.”
The V6, a proven and efficient performer, is no longer reserved just for high-spec models like the Wildtrak and Platinum. Ford’s powerful 3.0L V6 turbo-diesel engine is now available on more Ranger and Everest variants.
And the updated 2.0L turbo becomes the primary four-cylinder option, specifically engineered to bridge the gap in both performance and efficiency. Not just the engine from previous years and other models, the new 2.0L Turbo has undergone a major technical overhaul to improve its litres-per-100km figures:
- 10-Speed Automatic Transmission: Previously, the Turbo was often paired with a 6-speed automatic. For 2026.5 Ranger and Everest, it is now standard with the 10-speed automatic, which was a key reason for the Bi-Turbo’s previous efficiency advantage. This allows the engine to stay in its most efficient power band more often.
- Auto Start-Stop: This technology is now standard on the 2.0L Turbo variant. Ford estimates this feature alone reduces fuel consumption by approximately 0.5 to 0.7 l/100Kms in urban and stop-and-go driving.
- Engine Refinements: The 2026.5 unit features a new timing chain and an updated fuel injection system designed for more precise combustion and reduced internal friction.
Introducing Trailer Connection Alarm
Ford New Zealand has announced that Trailer Connection Alarm will soon be arriving in New Zealand on select 2026.5 Ranger and Everest models. A New Zealand first, this advanced security feature provides owners with enhanced peace of mind by sending a notification to their smartphone via the Ford App if the trailer is disconnected while the vehicle is locked. It will also trigger the vehicle alarm. Designed to offer an extra layer of protection for your gear, this update ensures Kiwi drivers can leave their trailers with greater confidence.
“A Unique Opportunity”
While the 2026.5 models bring new innovations, the arrival of the new stock also presents a unique opportunity. Ford New Zealand is highlighting a limited window for customers to secure some of the final remaining prior model Rangers and Everests currently in stock and is offering cash back incentives on select models.
Included in the Ford cash back incentive is the Ford Everest and Ranger Wildtrak 2.0L Bi-Turbo powertrain that Ford says has earned a legendary reputation for its balance of punchy performance, smooth power delivery and what it says is segment-leading fuel economy.
For more information, see www.ford.co.nz.
