2026 Ford Ranger vs 2025 Ford Ranger
Should you get yourself a brand new 2026 Ford Ranger? How different is this new midsize truck from the 2025 Ford Ranger, anyway? Our comparison guide helps you answer these questions and more!
Key Takeaways
- Not much has changed for 2026! The Ranger gets a few cosmetic updates, and some features have been shuffled around the trim lineup.
- Each model year offers one exclusive paint color -- Avalanche for the 2026 Ranger and Azure Gray for the 2025 Ranger.
- Both Rangers are available as four trim models: XL, XLT, Lariat, and Raptor.
- The new Ranger (starting at $33,350*) is almost the same price as last year's truck (which started at $33,330**)!
2025 Ford Ranger vs. 2026 Ford Ranger: What are the key differences between these model years?
Compared to last year's truck, the new Ranger introduces a new paint color (Avalanche) and swaps out the base XL's 17-inch aluminum wheels for steel ones (though the aluminum ones remain optional). Then there's the most exciting update -- a power moonroof will be optional for the XLT and Lariat trims beginning in spring 2026 (late availability)!
So when we say there aren't many differences between the 2025 and 2026 Ford Ranger models, we mean it! But why change a good thing? Since their redesign for 2024, these midsize trucks have been widely recognized as segment leaders -- especially when it comes to modern infotainment, ride comfort, and towing technology! Properly equipped, both model years can tow max loads of 7,500 pounds. The 2026 Ranger hauls payloads of up to 1,767 pounds, and the 2025 truck manages 1,788 pounds.
What paint colors are available for the 2026 Ford Ranger compared to the 2025 Ford Ranger?
When it comes to shades of gray, neither truck has any shortage of options. Both the 2025 and 2026 Rangers are available in Carbonized Gray and Marsh Gray. For 2026, however, Ford's midsize truck traded in Azure Gray for Avalanche. Check out all of the spectrum of paint colors available for each truck in our table below!
| Paint Color | 2025 Ford Ranger | 2026 Ford Ranger |
|---|---|---|
| Avalanche | ✓ | |
| Azure Gray | ✓ | |
| Carbonized Gray | ✓ | ✓ |
| Desert Sand | ✓ | ✓ |
| Marsh Gray | ✓ | ✓ |
| Oxford White | ✓ | ✓ |
| Ruby Red | ✓ | ✓ |
| Shadow Black | ✓ | ✓ |
| Velocity Blue | ✓ | ✓ |
2025 Ford Ranger vs. 2026 Ford Ranger: Which trim models are available?
Both trucks are available as four trim models -- the base XL, middling XLT, stylish Lariat, and trail-ready Raptor. Moving up the list means more in comfort, tech, and performance features!
XL
Get a great price on a brand new Ranger, courtesy of the handsomely equipped base XL trim.
- Crew Cab with two rows of cloth seating
- 8-inch digital cluster display
- SYNC 4 infotainment with 10-inch touchscreen
- Optional STX Appearance Package (with fog lamps and LED headlamps)
XLT
Step up to the XLT for more in everyday comfort and utility!
- Leather-wrapped shifter and vinyl-wrapped steering wheel
- Carpeted floors and floor mats
- LED headlamps, tail lamps, and fog lamps
- Ford Co-Pilot360 (including lane-keeping assist and blind-spot warning with trailer coverage)
Lariat
With upscale comfort and tech upgrades, the Lariat combines power with luxury.
- ActiveX-trimmed upholstery
- Power-adjustable, heated front seats with driver memory
- 12-inch digital cluster display
- 10-speaker B&O sound system
- Adaptive cruise control
- 360-degree parking camera
- Exterior Zone Lighting
Raptor
You know it as the extra-rugged Ranger. But in many ways, the Raptor is also the most luxurious version of this midsize truck!
- 3.0L EcoBoost V6
- Locking front and rear axles
- Extra Drive Modes: Rock Crawl, Baja
- Leather-trimmed seating
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel
Does the 2026 Ford Ranger cost more than the 2026 Ford Ranger?
Compared to last year's MSRP ($33,330**), the price of a 2026 Ford Ranger hasn't gone up too much, starting at $33,350*. If you're looking to build your midsize truck from the ground up, visit us at Banner Ford Mandeville to order the 2026 model. Then again, if you're looking for a solid deal on a new Ranger, you're equally welcome to swing by and test-drive last year's truck!
*MSRP as of 2/20/25. Subject to change.
**MSRP as of 6/5/25. Subject to change.
