2026 Ford Ranger Lightning Review, Dimensions, Configurations
2026 Ford Ranger Lightning Review, Dimensions, Configurations – An innovative pickup truck that combines the powerful Ranger Lightning with the efficiency of electric propulsion is about to be unveiled in 2026, and we couldn’t be more excited here at Ford.
From its redesigned exterior to its state-of-the-art engine and first-rate safety features, the Ranger Lightning Lightning has been meticulously engineered to deliver an unparalleled driving experience. 2026 Ford Ranger Lightning Review
2026 Ford Ranger Lightning Redesign and Update Plan
Exterior & Interior
Several features contribute to the modern look of the Ranger Lightning’s cabin, including honeycomb-patterned air vents, textured dashboard trim, and an available digital gauge display. Most of the truck’s buttons and switches have been digitalized and integrated into the infotainment system. Additionally, the shift lever is all new, and it will take some getting accustomed to because the release button is on the front of the lever instead of the side.
Several storage choices have been incorporated into the new Ranger Lightning’s interior design by Ford. There is storage under the truck’s back seat, larger side pockets, and a hidden upper glovebox under the dashboard. The only available body option is the SuperCrew crew cab. It can fit up to five people thanks to its four full-size doors and four seats.
Customers with an insatiable appetite for technology can choose between two screens: a standard 10.1-inch infotainment display or a 12.4-inch vertically inclined screen. You can access all the features of the Ranger Lightning using the latest version of Ford’s Sync 4 interface, which is compatible with both of these cars. The new zone-lighting option is one of these settings; it turns on the truck’s external lights to light up a work location or provide light for nighttime camp setup.
All models come with a digital gauge display, which may be either 8.0 or 12.4 inches in size. In addition to the standard capabilities of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, there are rumors about the availability of extra features including in-dash navigation, a wireless smartphone charging pad, and SiriusXM satellite radio.
2026 Ford Ranger Lightning Specs
Engine & Performance
A 270-horsepower turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine is included on the Ranger Lightning basic model. This engine has more than enough power to move the mid-size truck about, according to our tests. There is a new twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter V-6 engine that comes standard on higher model levels and produces 315 horsepower.
You may choose between two drivetrains—rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive—and each one is paired with an automated transmission with ten gears. During our first drive of the 2026 Ranger Lightning, we noticed that the truck handled better on the road and had a more comfortable ride than the previous generation. The steering, however, was off-center, so we were not happy with it.
Our time with the turbo four-cylinder led us to conclude that the new twin-turbo V-6 in the Ranger Lightning will allow it to reach 60 mph in 6.5 seconds. Unfortunately, we haven’t gotten a chance to try out the Ranger Lightning’s new engine just yet. At our earliest convenience, we will bring both models to our test track to evaluate their acceleration. Once we receive the results, we will share them with you in this article. For those seeking top-tier performance and thrilling off-road adventures, we will cover the Ranger Lightning Raptor in a future article.
The maximum payload that the 2026 Ford Range can haul is 7,500 pounds. While trucks with rear-wheel drive had a maximum payload capacity of 1805 pounds, those with four-wheel drive can only handle 1711 pounds. 2026 Ford Ranger Lightning Review
2026 Ford Ranger Lightning Fuel Economy
An estimated 21 city MPG and 25 highway MPG are achieved by the four-cylinder Ranger Lightning with rear-wheel drive, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Both of these numbers drop by one MPG when four-wheel drive is installed. If you outfit the Ranger Lightning with the V-6 engine, you can expect a city MPG of 19 and a highway MPG of 23. As soon as we have the chance, we will test the Ranger Lightning’s fuel efficiency on our highway route at 75 mph. We will be sure to update this post with our findings.
2026 Ford Ranger Lightning Safety Features
The Ranger Lightning is equipped with basic driver assistance technologies as standard equipment. However, if you want access to more advanced technology, you’ll have to upgrade to a higher trim level or buy an extra package. The affordable choice packages are a blessing for anyone who are considering these systems.
2026 Ford Ranger Lightning Release Date & Price
The 2026 Ford Ranger Lightning’s pricing ranges from $34,265 to $45,225, with the range being determined by the trim level and optional accessories. The mid-range XLT comes with a number of desirable extras, such as an electronic taillight system, 17-inch aluminum wheels, power-folding side-view mirrors, in-dash navigation, a wireless pad for charging smartphones, and a power outlet in the truck bed. We think this model is a good choice since, compared to the market standard, it seems more advanced.
There are also driver assistance systems built in, such as Ford’s Co-Pilot360 package, which comprises technologies like lane-keeping assistance, blind-spot monitoring, and rear parking sensors. We would also think about going with the Technology package, which comes with adaptive cruise control, front parking sensors, and a 360-degree video system. 2026 Ford Ranger Lightning Review
Note: Much of the information in this blog post is based on materials that were available before the product was even released. Call your local dealership or consult official sources if you want up-to-date information.