The 2025 Ford Ranger Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) has landed in Australia, marking a significant milestone as the nation’s best-selling ute embraces electrification. Engineered and designed in Australia, this rugged yet refined pickup combines the Ranger’s legendary toughness with a petrol-electric powertrain, delivering impressive torque, lower emissions, and versatile capabilities for work and play. With pricing starting at $71,990 before on-road costs for the XLT variant and reaching $82,990 for the Wildtrak, the Ranger PHEV enters a competitive market alongside Chinese rivals like the BYD Shark 6 and GWM Cannon Alpha. Launched in mid-2025 as an MY25.75 model, this plug-in hybrid ute offers a compelling blend of efficiency, power, and practicality, tailored to Australian drivers’ needs.
This article explores the 2025 Ford Ranger PHEV’s pricing, features, design, performance, and how it stacks up in Australia’s evolving ute market, drawing on insights from recent reviews and industry updates.
Pricing and Trim Levels
The 2025 Ford Ranger PHEV is available in four variants: XLT, Sport, Stormtrak, and Wildtrak, all offered as double-cab pickups with four-wheel drive. Pricing starts at $71,990 for the XLT, a significant premium over the diesel XLT ($58,990) and competitors like the BYD Shark 6, which starts around $65,000. The top-spec Wildtrak is priced at $82,990 before on-road costs, reflecting its premium features like leather upholstery and advanced tech. Below is a detailed pricing table for the Australian market:
|
Trim |
Price (AUD, before on-road costs) |
Powertrain |
|---|---|---|
|
XLT PHEV |
$71,990 |
2.3L Turbo Petrol + 75kW Electric Motor (697Nm) |
|
Sport PHEV |
$74,990 |
2.3L Turbo Petrol + 75kW Electric Motor (697Nm) |
|
Stormtrak PHEV |
$78,990 |
2.3L Turbo Petrol + 75kW Electric Motor (697Nm) |
|
Wildtrak PHEV |
$82,990 |
2.3L Turbo Petrol + 75kW Electric Motor (697Nm) |
The price premium over diesel models and Chinese PHEV rivals has raised eyebrows, but Ford justifies it with the Ranger’s Australian-developed platform, robust capabilities, and a five-star ANCAP safety rating. Standard features across all trims include an 8-inch digital driver display, a 12-inch vertical touchscreen with Sync 4A, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and advanced safety systems like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist.
Design and Styling
The 2025 Ranger PHEV retains the rugged, muscular aesthetic that has made the Ranger Australia’s favorite ute. Its exterior is nearly identical to the standard Ranger, featuring a bold front grille, C-clamp headlights, and a chiseled profile. Subtle PHEV-specific badging and a charging port on the side distinguish it from diesel models. The Wildtrak variant adds premium touches like 18-inch alloy wheels, a Raptor-style grille, and unique exterior accents, enhancing its commanding presence.
Inside, the Ranger PHEV mirrors the standard model’s practical yet modern cabin. The 12-inch vertical touchscreen dominates the dashboard, running Ford’s Sync 4A system for seamless connectivity. Higher trims like the Stormtrak and Wildtrak offer leather-accented seats, a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system, and ambient lighting, creating a near-luxury experience. However, some reviews note minor wind noise at highway speeds and a slightly clunky transition between petrol and electric power in urban driving, though the overall ride remains composed and car-like, with a tight turning circle for easy maneuvering.
Powertrain and Performance
The Ranger PHEV pairs a 2.3L EcoBoost turbo-petrol engine with a 75kW electric motor and an 11.8kWh battery, delivering a combined output of approximately 200kW and a class-leading 697Nm of torque—the highest ever for a Ranger. This powertrain, mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission, enables a 0-100km/h sprint in around 7.5 seconds, competitive with diesel variants. The electric motor provides up to 45km of electric-only range, ideal for short commutes or low-emission zones, though rivals like the BYD Shark 6 offer slightly more range (around 50km).
The PHEV maintains the Ranger’s off-road prowess, with 260mm ground clearance, a 3500kg braked towing capacity, and a payload of nearly 1000kg. Its four-wheel-drive system, with multiple terrain modes, ensures capability on rugged trails, while the hybrid setup reduces fuel consumption to approximately 3.5L/100km when using both power sources. Unlike competitors, the Ranger PHEV lacks DC fast-charging, relying on standard AC charging, which takes about 3-4 hours for a full charge. Ford emphasizes that this suits the typical use case of tradies and families charging overnight.
Technology and Features
The Ranger PHEV’s tech suite is a highlight, designed to enhance both work and leisure. The Sync 4A infotainment system supports OTA updates, ensuring software stays current. Standard features include a rear-view camera, parking sensors, and a 360-degree camera on higher trims. The Wildtrak adds a power roller shutter for the cargo bed, matrix LED headlights, and a zone-based climate control system.
A unique feature is the Pro Power Onboard system, allowing the Ranger PHEV to function as a mobile power source, delivering up to 6.6kW via onboard outlets to power tools or camping equipment. This makes it a game-changer for tradies and off-grid adventurers. Safety features are robust, with autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert standard across the range, reinforcing the five-star ANCAP rating.
Competitive Landscape
The Ranger PHEV enters a growing segment of electrified utes in Australia, facing stiff competition from the BYD Shark 6 and GWM Cannon Alpha, both of which offer lower starting prices and larger batteries. The BYD Shark 6, priced from $65,000, boasts a longer electric range and competitive towing capacity, while the GWM Cannon Alpha emphasizes value with premium features at a lower cost. However, the Ranger’s Australian engineering, brand loyalty, and superior torque give it an edge for buyers prioritizing reliability and performance.
Compared to traditional diesel utes like the Toyota Hilux and Isuzu D-Max, the Ranger PHEV offers lower running costs and emissions, appealing to eco-conscious buyers and businesses facing stricter regulations. However, its higher upfront cost may deter budget-conscious buyers, especially when diesel Rangers remain cheaper and equally capable for heavy-duty tasks.
Market Reception and Availability
Launched in July 2025, the Ranger PHEV is available across Ford Australia dealerships, with strong early interest driven by its electrified novelty and rugged credentials. Posts on X reflect enthusiasm for its torque and hybrid efficiency, though some users question its price premium compared to Chinese rivals. Ford Australia reports robust demand, particularly for the XLT and Wildtrak trims, with deliveries underway in Q3 2025.
The Ranger PHEV benefits from Ford’s comprehensive ownership package, including a five-year/unlimited-kilometer warranty, roadside assistance, and capped-price servicing. Its resale value is expected to remain strong, aligning with the Ranger’s reputation as a durable, high-demand ute.
Why It Matters for Australia
The Ranger PHEV’s arrival is timely, as Australia’s ute market—dominated by diesel models—faces increasing pressure to adopt greener technologies. With fuel prices rising and emissions regulations tightening, the PHEV offers a practical bridge between traditional utes and fully electric models like the upcoming Ford F-150 Lightning. Its Australian development ensures it meets local needs, from urban worksites to Outback adventures, while features like Pro Power Onboard cater to the country’s tradie and camping culture.
However, the price gap between the PHEV and diesel variants, combined with competition from cheaper Chinese PHEVs, poses a challenge. Ford’s focus on capability, safety, and tech aims to justify the cost, but buyers will need to weigh the long-term savings of hybrid efficiency against the upfront investment.
Looking Ahead
The 2025 Ford Ranger PHEV redefines Australia’s favorite ute with a bold step into electrification, blending rugged style, class-leading torque, and innovative features like Pro Power Onboard. Priced from $71,990 to $82,990, it’s a premium offering in a competitive market, facing challenges from lower-cost rivals like the BYD Shark 6. Yet, its Australian engineering, robust capabilities, and advanced tech make it a compelling choice for tradies, families, and adventurers seeking a versatile, eco-friendly ute. As Ford celebrates 100 years in Australia, the Ranger PHEV underscores its commitment to innovation while staying true to its workhorse roots. For the latest pricing or to book a test drive, visit your local Ford dealer or check Ford Australia’s website.