Discover the 2026 Ford Ranger plug‑in hybrid with BlueCruise hands‑free driving and Trailer Theft Alert, now debuting in Europe. Learn more today!
The 2026 Ford Ranger plug‑in hybrid (PHEV) made its global debut at the Brussels Motor Show, showcasing a suite of advanced safety, driver‑assist, and design upgrades. While European fans can already enjoy the new features, drivers down under and in Vietnam will have to wait.
Trailer Theft Alert – A New Layer of Security
Borrowed from Ford’s full‑size F‑Series, the Trailer Theft Alert monitors the trailer‑hitch connection. If the system detects an unauthorised release, it triggers the vehicle’s alarm and sends an instant notification to the driver’s smartphone.
This feature builds on an already robust trailer‑assist package that includes:
- Blind‑spot monitoring that accounts for trailer length
- Haul mode for optimized power delivery
- Remote light‑check capability
- Integrated brake controller
- Pro Trailer Backup Assist for precise reverse manoeuvres
Ford Australia has confirmed that Trailer Theft Alert will not be available on the Ranger or Everest models in the Australian market, and the PHEV version has never been sold in Vietnam. Consequently, local buyers are unlikely to see this anti‑theft tech anytime soon.
BlueCruise Hands‑Free Driving Comes to the Ranger
Another headline feature is Ford BlueCruise, a Level‑2 hands‑free system that allows drivers to relax on mapped highways. Using a cabin‑facing camera to monitor driver attention, BlueCruise can steer, accelerate and brake within set speed limits, much like the system found on the Mustang Mach‑E.
In Europe, BlueCruise is standard on the Platinum‑trim PHEV and optional on the Wildtrak‑trim PHEV. Ford Australia has not disclosed any plans to bring BlueCruise to the Ranger PHEV, making its rollout outside Europe uncertain.
Design Refresh Mirrors the Diesel Model
The 2026 Ranger PHEV adopts the same visual overhaul slated for the upcoming diesel version in Australia. Highlights include:
- Elimination of chrome trim in favour of black, sport‑styled cladding
- A refreshed Ford logo
- New paint options such as Ignite Orange for the Wildtrak and Acacia Green for the Platinum
- Platinum interiors featuring black leather with subtle gray stitching and a high‑gloss black dashboard
- Aerodynamically optimised 19‑inch wheels (down from the 20‑inch wheels on the diesel Platinum)
These updates give the electric Ranger a tougher, more contemporary look while keeping its off‑road pedigree intact.
What This Means for Non‑European Buyers
For now, the advanced driver‑assist and security technologies showcased in Brussels are Europe‑exclusive. Australian and Vietnamese markets will continue to receive the conventional Ranger lineup until Ford announces a formal launch of the PHEV variant.
Stay tuned for future updates on availability, pricing, and potential local specifications.