2026 Ford Ranger vs 2026 Honda Ridgeline
The 2026 Ford Ranger continues to build on its reputation as one of the most capable midsize trucks on the market. With strong engines, impressive towing capability, and well-equipped trims, it has plenty going for it. See how it stacks up against the Honda Ridgeline in this best midsize trucks review.
Key Takeaways:
- The Ranger and Ridgeline return with minor updates.
- Ford offers two engine options, while the Ridgeline features a single V6.
- Higher towing and payload ratings make the Ranger the better choice for the jobsite.
- The Ranger is the more affordable of the two competitors.
A Look at the 2026 Ford Ranger and Honda Ridgeline Lineups
Following a recent redesign, 2026 Rangers see no significant changes. Buyers can still choose from the following three trims. Pricing as of June 2026 is:
- XL: $37,470
- XLT: $35,445
- Lariat: $45,850
Honda also makes only small updates to the Ridgeline. Black Edition models now offer an available black roof, while the TrailSport receives a new Ash Green Metallic paint color. Ridgeline trims are:
- Sport: $40,795
- RTL: $43,595
- TrailSport: $45,995
- TrailSport+ (HPD Wheels): $47,195
- Black Edition: $47,395
- Black Edition Two-Tone: $47,895
Which Truck Delivers More Performance?
Ford gives Ranger buyers a choice between two EcoBoost engines. The standard 270-hp 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder is available with rear- or four-wheel drive, while the available 315-horsepower 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 comes exclusively with four-wheel drive. Both engines mate with a responsive 10-speed automatic transmission. Honda offers one powertrain across the Ridgeline lineup. Every model uses a 280-hp 3.5-liter V6 paired with a nine-speed automatic and all-wheel drive.
Properly equipped, the Ranger can tow up to 7,500 pounds regardless of engine choice. Payload reaches 1,788 pounds with the 2.3-liter EcoBoost and 1,542 pounds with the available V6. The Ridgeline does well, but not quite that much--it tows up to 5,000 pounds and carries a max payload of 1,583 pounds.
| 2026 Ford Ranger | 2026 Honda Ridgeline |
|---|---|
| 2.3L turbo I4 or 2.7L twin-turbo V6 | 3.5-liter V-6 engine |
| 10-speed automatic | 9-speed automatic |
| RWD or 4WD for turbo 44WD for V6 | AWD |
| 7,500-pound towing capacity and 1,542-pound payload | 5,000-pound towing capacity and 1,583-pound payload |
Fuel Economy of the Ranger and Ridgeline
Both trucks deliver decent fuel economy for the midsize segment, but the Ranger comes out ahead here too! Rear-wheel-drive models with the standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine get 21 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, while four-wheel-drive versions return 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.
The Ridgeline gets 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway with its standard V6 and all-wheel drive. The TrailSport sees highway fuel economy dip slightly to 23 mpg because of its all-terrain tires and off-road upgrades.
Tech of the Ranger vs. Ridgeline
Tech is strong in both trucks, but Ford gives buyers more flexibility. The Ranger XL and XLT feature a 10.1-inch touchscreen and an 8-inch digital instrument cluster. The Lariat upgrades to a 12-inch touchscreen and a 12.4-inch digital cluster (XLT buyers can also add the larger displays as an option)
Every Ranger runs SYNC 4 with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and you also have the option of exterior zone lighting.
Honda equips every Ridgeline with a 9-inch touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Wireless phone charging comes standard across all trims, while built-in navigation is included on TrailSport and Black Edition models.
Why the Ranger Is the Better Choice
Whether you're headed to the jobsite, towing a trailer, or looking for a truck that can handle both work and weekend adventures, the Ranger delivers the capability to do it all. Come and take it for a test drive today at Banner Ford of Mandeville!
