2026 Ford Ranger vs 2026 Honda Ridgeline
After a recent overhaul, the Ford Ranger gets almost no new tweaks for 2026, but even without updates, it continues to lead the pack in the midsize truck category. Let's see how it stacks up against a major competitor in the Honda Ridgeline so you can figure out which truck belongs in your driveway.
Key Takeaways
- When properly equipped, the Ranger can tow up to 7,500 pounds.
- The Ranger gives you two strong engine configurations, while the Ridgeline only offers one.
- Ford offers the Ranger in three wallet-friendly trims.
What's Changed for the Ford Ranger and Honda Ridgeline
Because the Ranger received a top-to-bottom redesign recently, this year's model carries on with business as usual. As of June 20, 2026, the available trim configurations are:
- XL: $37,470
- XLT: $35,445
- Lariat: $45,850
The Ridgeline also returns with minimal updates. Shoppers can now select a black roof on the Black Edition models, and the off-road-oriented TrailSport trim adds an Ash Green Metallic exterior paint option. Its 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
Ranger and Ridgeline Engines and Towing
The Ranger's standard powertrain is a 270-hp 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, but for a serious performance bump, you can step up to a 315-horsepower 2.7-liter twin-turbo V6. The V6 comes exclusively with four-wheel drive, while the entry-level four-cylinder features either rear- or four-wheel drive. Both engines pair with a 10-speed automatic.
The Ridgeline relies on just one engine--a 280-hp 3.5-liter V6 engine paired up with a 9-speed automatic and standard all-wheel drive.
With the standard four-cylinder, the Ranger can pull up to 7,500 pounds and carry up to 1,788 pounds in the bed. Opting for the V6 maintains that identical towing max, but the total payload limit drops to 1,542 pounds. In comparison, the Ridgeline's max is 5,000 pounds for trailer towing and 1,583 pounds for payload.
| 2026 Ford Ranger | 2026 Honda Ridgeline |
|---|---|
| 2.3L turbo I4: 2.7L twin-turbo V6 engines | 3.5-liter V-6 engine |
| 10-speed automatic transmission | 9-speed automatic transmission |
| 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 |
What's Mileage Like for the Ranger and Ridgeline?
Fuel efficiency estimates for the Ranger are 21 mpg city and 26 mpg highway when configured with rear-wheel drive, and 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway with four-wheel drive. The Ridgeline delivers estimates of 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway, though the rugged TrailSport trim drops down to 23 mpg on the highway.
Comparing Tech and Infotainment Features in the Ranger and Ridgeline
The Ranger XL and mid-tier XLT feature a 10.1-inch center touchscreen and an 8.0-inch digital instrument cluster. Stepping up into the premium Lariat model upgrades the interior with a larger 12.0-inch center layout and a 12.4-inch digital cluster (these larger screens can also be added to the XLT trim as optional extras). The SYNC 4 software platform adds wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a highly practical exterior zone lighting feature.
The Ridgeline features a standard 9.0-inch touchscreen that fully supports wireless smartphone integration. Honda packages a wireless phone charging pad across every single trim level, and you get built-in factory navigation included as a standard feature on the TrailSport and Black Edition models.
Choosing Between the Ranger and Ridgeline
If your main goal is to drive a midsize pickup truck that perfectly balances heavy-duty capability with sharp modern styling for a more affordable price, the Ford Ranger checks every single box on the list. Give our Karl Flammer team a call or drop us a message today--we are ready to help you get behind the wheel of your next new Ford truck!
