The new generation of Ford’s mid-size pickup truck is on the way and besides the new design, we will also see big novelties under the hood. Besides the classic gasoline models, the new Ranger will also come in a hybrid variant. More precisely, we will see a plug-in hybrid setup, notably different compared to hybrid powertrains we’ve seen in Ford models so far.
Besides the new powertrain, the next generation will also bring a full load of novelties, starting from the new design, new interior, lots of new technologies etc. The new model has already been presented and we can say it looks amazing. From what we know so far, the 2023 Ford Ranger Hybrid will hit the market sometime in the second half of the next year in North America.
2023 Ford Ranger Hybrid Powertrain
Of course, the most interesting aspect of the 2023 Ford Ranger Hybrid is its powertrain. Ford has a pretty big experience in making electrified powertrains but this model will feature a completely new powertrain, different from the ones found in models like Ford Explorer or Ford Maverick.
In this case, we will see a plug-in hybrid system, based on a 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbo-four engine. This engine will come in pair with a single electric motor, as well as with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The latest reports suggest a combined output of 362 horsepower and 502 pound-feet of torque. At this point, details about the battery capacity and all-electric range are still unknown.
EV Ranger On the Way Too?
Besides the hybrid version, the upcoming Ranger will also come in a fully-electric version. The Blue Oval company is already working on this version. However, from what we can read on the network, it looks like this version won’t be ready so soon and that we would have to wait for it for a few more years. More details are about to come in the near future.
2023 Ford Ranger Hybrid Design
Of course, the powertrain won’t be the only big thing about the 2023 Ford Ranger Hybrid. We will also see a completely new design. The new generation of Ford’s mid-size pickup will bring a lot of novelties, even though it will continue to ride on the familiar T6 platform. Still, this platform will be significantly updated and upgraded, so you may count on significant improvements regarding ride quality, comfort etc.
Also, the new model will be slightly bigger, with a slightly longer wheelbase. Naturally, the new styling is coming as well. More precisely, the new look has already been presented and we can see a lot of influence from the full-size F-150, but also from the compact Maverick, which rides on a unibody platform. The overall impression is that the new model looks bolder and more prominent. These things have a pretty big impact on sales numbers these days.
Interior
From what we can see, the new generation of Ranger will bring significant improvements in this aspect. The new cabin looks very car-like. It has an attractive dashboard design and fine materials, as well as with a full load of tech features. Among tech features, the most prominent is definitely the new, vertically oriented 12-inch touchscreen, which comes with the latest SYNC4 software. Furthermore, there is a digital instrument cluster, along with many other tech goodies.
Another thing we should mention is that the 2023 Ford Ranger Hybrid will probably come in a crew cab layout only.
2023 Ford Ranger Hybrid Release Date
At this point, we are still waiting to hear from the officials on this matter. Still, we believe that this version could arrive by the end of this year. When it comes to the competition, we know that Toyota prepares a hybrid version of Tacoma, while other trucks in the class should also offer some sort of electrification in the next few years.