Few vehicles command loyalty in Australia quite like the Ford Ranger. Year after year, this dual-cab ute has outsold rivals, blending rugged off-road capability with everyday comfort and modern tech. For 2025, Ford hasn’t reinvented the wheel—but it has delivered a carefully considered update that keeps the Ranger firmly in pole position.
The 2025 Ford Ranger arrives with refined styling, a suite of advanced driver-assist features, improved towing confidence, and subtle tweaks across the engine lineup. Whether you’re a tradie who needs a tough workhorse, an adventurer seeking a 4x4 companion, or a family looking for a versatile daily driver, the latest Ranger promises to tick the boxes.
This review dives deep into what makes the 2025 Ford Ranger one of the most anticipated vehicles on Australian roads.
Exterior Design and Styling
Ford hasn’t dramatically altered the Ranger’s formula, but it has sharpened its appeal. The front fascia carries a bold, squared-off grille flanked by signature C-clamp LED headlights—a design inspired by Ford’s F-150. The updated bumper and stronger bonnet lines give the ute a more aggressive stance.
At the rear, subtle changes to the tailgate design and lighting cluster modernise the look without alienating existing fans. A practical touch is the integrated step in the rear bumper, making it easier to access the tray—a small feature, but one that tradies and campers will love.
Higher-grade trims sport larger alloys, unique grille finishes, and premium paint options, while lower-spec models keep things functional and affordable. Ford clearly understands that Australian buyers want choice, from rugged steel wheels for worksites to gloss-black trims for lifestyle buyers.
Interior Comfort and Features
Step inside the 2025 Ranger and the improvements are obvious. The cabin feels more SUV-like than ever, with higher-quality materials, refined ergonomics, and better noise insulation.
The centrepiece is Ford’s large portrait-style infotainment screen—standard on most variants—with SYNC 4 software. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included, along with crisp graphics and faster responses. Entry models receive a smaller screen but still benefit from improved interface design.
Practical touches remain. Multiple USB-A and USB-C ports, ample storage compartments, and a configurable digital driver’s display make the Ranger’s interior as functional as it is modern. Dual-zone climate control, wireless charging, and premium audio are available on higher trims, making this ute feel genuinely luxurious.
Rear passengers also benefit from increased legroom, supportive seats, and rear air vents, reinforcing the Ranger’s appeal as a family vehicle.
Engine and Performance
Ford offers a choice of engines to suit different buyers:
- 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo Diesel (4-cyl): Known for efficiency and reliability, this engine balances workhorse durability with fuel-sipping performance.
- 3.0-litre V6 Turbo Diesel: The headline option, delivering strong torque for towing and effortless highway cruising.
- 2.3-litre EcoBoost Petrol (limited availability): Ideal for buyers prioritising smoothness and everyday driving refinement.
Matched to a 10-speed automatic transmission, the Ranger delivers smooth shifts and optimised performance across all terrains. Rear-wheel drive comes standard on lower trims, while most variants offer part-time or full-time 4x4 systems.
Acceleration feels brisk for a vehicle of this size, with the V6 particularly impressive when overtaking or towing.
Off-Road Capability
Australians expect their utes to conquer challenging conditions, and the 2025 Ranger doesn’t disappoint.
Key off-road highlights include:
- Selectable drive modes for sand, mud, snow, and rock crawling
- Electronic locking rear differential for traction in tough conditions
- Improved ground clearance and suspension geometry
- Trail control (off-road cruise control) for easier low-speed manoeuvring
On dirt tracks, the Ranger feels composed and confidence-inspiring. The suspension soaks up corrugations, and the steering remains precise even on uneven terrain. Hill descent control and an improved 4WD system make light work of steep, rocky sections.
Whether it’s beach runs, outback trails, or mountain access roads, the 2025 Ranger proves why it’s a top pick for Aussie adventurers.
Towing and Payload
Towing remains a cornerstone of the Ranger’s appeal. The 2025 model offers up to 3,500kg braked towing capacity, depending on the engine and configuration. Payload capacity hovers around 950–1,100kg, making it suitable for caravans, boats, or heavy work equipment.
Ford has also enhanced towing safety with features like:
- Integrated trailer brake controller
- 360-degree camera views for hitching
- Trailer sway control
- Tow/haul drive mode for stability under load
For families towing a camper or tradies hauling machinery, the Ranger is engineered to handle the weight with ease.
Technology and Safety
The Ranger’s tech suite is one of the strongest in its class. Standard and available features include:
- Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go
- Lane-keeping assist and lane-departure warning
- Blind-spot monitoring with trailer coverage
- Pre-collision assist with autonomous emergency braking
- Evasive steering assist
- 360-degree camera system
These systems help the Ranger earn high ANCAP ratings, making it a trusted family hauler as well as a work vehicle.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel economy has always been a key consideration for ute buyers.
- The 2.0 Bi-Turbo Diesel returns around 7.5–8.5L/100km depending on load and driving style.
- The 3.0 V6 Diesel sits closer to 9.5–10.5L/100km, a fair trade for its torque and towing power.
Ford has tuned the engines and 10-speed transmission to maximise efficiency, particularly in highway cruising scenarios. For tradies and businesses, these figures make the Ranger a cost-effective option over the long run.
Variants and Pricing
The 2025 Ranger lineup remains broad, offering something for every buyer:
- XL: Entry-level workhorse, durable and no-frills.
- XLT: Balanced mid-spec with tech upgrades.
- Sport: Lifestyle-focused, with more comfort and styling flair.
- Wildtrak: Feature-rich, popular with families and touring buyers.
- Raptor: High-performance off-road beast with unique suspension and petrol V6 power.
Pricing varies by trim and configuration, but expect:
- XL from around $40,000–$45,000 drive-away
- Wildtrak from around $70,000+
- Raptor from around $90,000+
This wide spectrum means the Ranger appeals to everyone from budget-conscious tradies to off-road enthusiasts willing to spend big.
Maintenance and Ownership
Ford backs the 2025 Ranger with a 5-year/unlimited kilometre warranty, aligning with industry standards. Service intervals are set at 12 months/15,000km, and capped-price servicing keeps costs predictable.
Insurance premiums remain competitive for the segment, though higher-spec and performance models attract higher rates. Resale value has historically been strong for Rangers, especially for 4x4 dual-cab variants.
Comparisons with Rivals
The ute market in Australia is fiercely competitive. How does the 2025 Ranger compare?
- Toyota HiLux: The HiLux continues to be a close rival, but the Ranger edges ahead with tech and refinement.
- Isuzu D-MAX: A reliable workhorse, though less polished in interior quality compared to the Ranger.
- Mitsubishi Triton: More affordable, but lacks the same premium feel.
- Nissan Navara: Solid performer, though not as advanced in safety tech.
The Ranger positions itself as the all-rounder: a ute that excels at work, play, and family duties.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Wide choice of variants and engines
- Excellent towing and off-road capability
- Modern, tech-rich interior
- Strong resale value
Cons:
- Higher trims can get expensive
- Fuel use rises under heavy loads
- Some rivals offer longer warranties
Final Verdict
The 2025 Ford Ranger reinforces why it’s Australia’s best-selling ute. By blending powerful engines, outstanding towing ability, smart technology, and SUV-like comfort, Ford has created a ute that genuinely suits the diverse needs of Australian buyers.
From outback adventures to suburban school runs, the Ranger remains a benchmark in its segment. For anyone considering a dual-cab in 2025, this upgraded Ford Ranger is hard to beat.
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