The Ford Ranger has solidified its position as Australia’s top-selling vehicle, a testament to its rugged design, versatile performance, and appeal to both commercial and family buyers. Its entry-level 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engines, available in single-turbo and bi-turbo configurations, have been a cornerstone of its success since replacing the older 2.2-litre Puma diesel in 2020. However, recent developments in Europe, where stricter emissions regulations have led Ford to phase out these engines, have raised questions about their future in Australia. Despite these global shifts, Ford Australia has confirmed that the entry-level engines are safe for now, with no immediate plans to discontinue them. This article explores the safety, performance, and future prospects of the Ford Ranger’s entry-level engines in Australia, addressing recent recalls, regulatory challenges, and the rise of the Ranger Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) as a potential game-changer.
Safety of Entry-Level Engines
The Ford Ranger’s entry-level 2.0-litre ‘Panther’ turbo-diesel engines have been praised for their reliability and efficiency. Available in single-turbo (168bhp) and bi-turbo (202bhp) variants, these engines power the Ranger XL and other base models, offering a balance of fuel economy and capability for towing and off-road tasks. Unlike the 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel, which has faced significant safety concerns, the 2.0-litre engines have not been subject to major recalls in Australia. A recent recall affecting 13,490 Ranger and Everest models with the V6 engine, due to a camshaft sprocket defect that could cause sudden engine failure, explicitly excluded the 2.0-litre models. This underscores their relative safety and reliability in the Australian market.
The Ranger’s safety credentials are further bolstered by its five-star ANCAP rating across all model grades, including those with entry-level engines. This rating reflects the inclusion of advanced driver-assist technologies such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and autonomous emergency braking, which are standard even on base models like the Ranger XL. These features, combined with the vehicle’s robust chassis designed for Australian conditions, make the entry-level Ranger a safe choice for both work and family use.
Recent Recalls and Their Implications
While the 2.0-litre engines have avoided major issues, Ford Australia has faced scrutiny over recalls affecting other Ranger models. In May 2025, Ford issued a recall for 13,490 Ranger and Everest vehicles equipped with the 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel due to a manufacturing defect in the left-hand camshaft sprocket. This fault could lead to sudden engine stalling, posing a significant safety risk, particularly at highway speeds or while towing. Owners reported incidents of engine failure with minimal warning, amplifying concerns about the V6’s reliability.
In contrast, the 2.0-litre engines have not been implicated in this recall, reinforcing their stability. However, a broader recall in June 2025 affected 36,000 Ford vehicles, including Rangers built between 2021 and 2024, for issues unrelated to the engine, such as software glitches in the instrument cluster and potential fire risks from electrical faults. While these recalls highlight Ford’s commitment to addressing safety concerns proactively, they also underscore the importance of rigorous quality control, particularly as the Ranger faces increasing competition from Chinese rivals like the BYD Shark 6 and GWM Cannon Alpha.
Emissions Regulations and the Future of Diesel Engines
The primary threat to the Ford Ranger’s entry-level engines in Australia stems not from safety concerns but from impending emissions regulations. The New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), set to take effect on July 1, 2025, will impose penalties on manufacturers whose fleet-average CO2 emissions exceed tightening annual targets. In Europe, stricter emissions laws have already forced Ford to discontinue the 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine in the Ranger lineup from early 2026, replacing it with a 3.0-litre V6 diesel and a 2.3-litre petrol PHEV.
Ford Australia has stated there is “no news” on changes to the local Ranger lineup, suggesting the 2.0-litre engines are safe for the foreseeable future. However, the NVES could pressure Ford to adjust its offerings. The Ranger PHEV, launched in 2025, is positioned as a strategic response to these regulations, offering a claimed 43km electric range and significantly lower CO2 emissions than diesel models. Ford insists the PHEV is about broadening customer choice rather than merely complying with emissions standards, but its lower emissions profile will help offset potential NVES penalties for diesel-heavy models.
The 2.0-litre engines, while efficient for their class, produce higher CO2 emissions than the PHEV, which achieves over 36.6mpg in touring conditions compared to the diesel’s 28.9mpg. As emissions targets tighten, Ford may face a choice: invest in further optimising the 2.0-litre diesel or phase it out in favour of electrified options. For now, the engines remain a cost-effective choice for buyers, particularly those prioritising affordability over the premium-priced PHEV or V6 models.
The Rise of the Ranger PHEV
The introduction of the Ford Ranger PHEV marks a significant shift in the ute market, offering a blend of electric efficiency and traditional capability. Powered by a 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol engine paired with an 11.8kWh battery and electric motor, the PHEV delivers 509lb ft of torque, surpassing even the V6 diesel. Its 3500kg towing capacity and payload of up to 973kg (XLT variant) match the diesel models, while its Pro Power system allows it to serve as a mobile generator, appealing to tradies and adventurers alike.
Despite its strengths, the PHEV has faced criticism for its detuned petrol engine and limited electric range, which some argue is insufficient for long-distance towing. Priced from $71,990, it commands a premium over diesel models, potentially deterring budget-conscious buyers. However, its ability to meet stringent emissions targets and its off-road prowess—demonstrated by climbing Iceland’s Hengill volcano—position it as a viable alternative to diesel engines, particularly as NVES penalties loom.
Competitive Landscape
The Ford Ranger faces growing competition from Chinese manufacturers entering the Australian ute market. The BYD Shark 6 and GWM Cannon Alpha PHEVs boast lower fuel consumption (2L/100km and 1.7L/100km, respectively) than the Ranger PHEV’s 2.3L/100km, challenging Ford’s dominance. However, the Ranger’s Australian-developed chassis, superior driving dynamics, and comprehensive safety features give it an edge, particularly for buyers valuing local engineering and brand reliability.
The Ranger Super Duty, set to launch in 2026, further strengthens Ford’s lineup. Priced from $82,990, it offers enhanced towing (up to 4.5 tonnes) and off-road capabilities with features like double diff-locks and a 130-litre fuel tank. While powered by a detuned 3.0-litre V6 diesel to meet emissions standards, it targets heavy-duty applications, complementing rather than replacing the entry-level models.
Comparison Table: Ford Ranger Engine Options in Australia
|
Engine Type |
Power Output |
Torque |
Towing Capacity |
Fuel Efficiency |
Emissions Compliance |
Price Range (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2.0L Single-Turbo Diesel |
168bhp |
405Nm |
3500kg |
28.9mpg (combined) |
Moderate |
$35,000–$45,000 |
|
2.0L Bi-Turbo Diesel |
202bhp |
500Nm |
3500kg |
28.9mpg (combined) |
Moderate |
$40,000–$50,000 |
|
3.0L V6 Turbo-Diesel |
184kW (154kW in Super Duty) |
600Nm |
3500kg (4500kg in Super Duty) |
26.7mpg (combined) |
Moderate |
$50,000–$90,440 |
|
2.3L PHEV (Petrol + Electric) |
292kW |
690Nm |
3500kg |
36.6mpg (touring) |
High |
$71,990–$85,000 |
Final Words
For now, the Ford Ranger’s entry-level 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engines remain a safe and reliable choice in Australia, unaffected by the V6 recalls and backed by a five-star ANCAP rating. Their future, however, hinges on Ford’s ability to navigate the NVES and compete with emerging PHEV rivals. The Ranger PHEV and Super Duty models signal Ford’s commitment to diversification, balancing emissions compliance with the capability Australian buyers demand. While the 2.0-litre engines are safe for the present, their long-term viability will depend on Ford’s strategic response to regulatory and market pressures. For buyers seeking an affordable, capable, and safe ute, the entry-level Ranger remains a compelling option—at least for now.