Ford Ranger PHEV Lays Down New Marker with International Pick-Up Award
The Ford Ranger has been crowned the International Pick-Up Award winner for 2026, the fourth time the class best-seller has landed the coveted prize in the last 15 years.
A winner previously in 2013, 2020 and in 2024 (alongside sister model, the Volkswagen Amarok) just two years later the Blue Oval is celebrating once again courtesy of its recenty-launched Ford Ranger PHEV (Plug-In Hybrid) variant.
One of the first models in the traditionally heavy-duty pick-up segment to offer an alternative fuel method to diesel, the Ranger PHEV mates a modest 11.8kWh battery with a 2.3-litre petrol engine for a combined power output of 277bhp.
Offering up to 26 miles of electric-only range, the inclusion of a battery helps significantly reduce the CO2 emissions on average compared with the diesel equivalent too. It also makes the Ranger PHEV a potentially more attractive proposition for business users with more palatable Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) tax rate.
Beyond the welcome day-to-day cost savings, the Ranger’s torquey 697Nm engine, generous payload capacity and still class-leading on-road performance were singled to assure its IPUA 2026 success.
"We are incredibly proud and honoured that the new Ford Ranger PHEV has been named the International Pick-up Award winner for 2026/27,” commented Ford Pro Europe General Manager, Hans Schep.
“Having won with the all-new Ford Ranger in 2024, we deeply value the recognition the jury has now given to the electrified plug-in hybrid model, demonstrating the consistent excellence and innovative spirit that defines the Ranger lineage.
“Pick-up customers rely on the capability of their vehicle to get the job done, and this recognition further validates that the Ranger PHEV doesn't just match the uncompromising performance our customers expect from a Ranger - it elevates it.
“With its electrification, the Ranger PHEV delivers even more, including the innovative Pro Power Onboard feature, which transforms the vehicle into a mobile power source.
“This significantly enhances productivity and utility on any job site, truly making it an ultimate partner for businesses across Europe."
The Ranger PHEV reigned victorious in a five-strong field of nominations with INEOS Grenadier Quartermaster finishing runner-up, while the Chinese-manufactured Foton V9 – available on mainland Europe but not the UK – completed the podium.
The new electric Maxus eTerron 9 and diesel Maxus T60 MAX picked up fourth and fifth respectively.
