The 2026 Ford Ranger continues to build on its reputation as one of the most capable midsize trucks on the market. With strong engines, impressive towing capability, and well-equipped trims, it has plenty going for it. See how it stacks up against the Honda Ridgeline in this best midsize trucks review.
Key Takeaways:
- The Ranger and Ridgeline return with minor updates.
- Ford offers two engine options, while the Ridgeline features a single V6.
- Higher towing and payload ratings make the Ranger the better choice for the jobsite.
- The Ranger is the more affordable of the two competitors.
A Look at the 2026 Ford Ranger and Honda Ridgeline Lineups
Following a recent redesign, 2026 Rangers see no significant changes. Buyers can still choose from the following three trims. Pricing as of June 2026 is:
- XL: $37,470
- XLT: $35,445
- Lariat: $45,850
Honda also makes only small updates to the Ridgeline. Black Edition models now offer an available black roof, while the TrailSport receives a new Ash Green Metallic paint color. Ridgeline trims are:
- Sport: $40,795
- RTL: $43,595
- TrailSport: $45,995
- TrailSport+ (HPD Wheels): $47,195
- Black Edition: $47,395
- Black Edition Two-Tone: $47,895
Which Truck Delivers More Performance?
Ford gives Ranger buyers a choice between two EcoBoost engines. The standard 270-hp 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder is available with rear- or four-wheel drive, while the available 315-horsepower 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 comes exclusively with four-wheel drive. Both engines mate with a responsive 10-speed automatic transmission. Honda offers one powertrain across the Ridgeline lineup. Every model uses a 280-hp 3.5-liter V6 paired with a nine-speed automatic and all-wheel drive.
Properly equipped, the Ranger can tow up to 7,500 pounds regardless of engine choice. Payload reaches 1,788 pounds with the 2.3-liter EcoBoost and 1,542 pounds with the available V6. The Ridgeline does well, but not quite that much--it tows up to 5,000 pounds and carries a max payload of 1,583 pounds.
Powertrains and Towing
| 2026 Ford Ranger |
2026 Honda Ridgeline |
| 2.3L turbo I4 or 2.7L twin-turbo V6 |
3.5-liter V-6 engine |
| 10-speed automatic |
9-speed automatic |
| RWD or 4WD for turbo 44WD for V6 |
AWD |
| 7,500-pound towing capacity and 1,542-pound payload |
5,000-pound towing capacity and 1,583-pound payload |
Fuel Economy of the Ranger and Ridgeline
Both trucks deliver decent fuel economy for the midsize segment, but the Ranger comes out ahead here too! Rear-wheel-drive models with the standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine get 21 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, while four-wheel-drive versions return 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.
The Ridgeline gets 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway with its standard V6 and all-wheel drive. The TrailSport sees highway fuel economy dip slightly to 23 mpg because of its all-terrain tires and off-road upgrades.
Tech of the Ranger vs. Ridgeline
Tech is strong in both trucks, but Ford gives buyers more flexibility. The Ranger XL and XLT feature a 10.1-inch touchscreen and an 8-inch digital instrument cluster. The Lariat upgrades to a 12-inch touchscreen and a 12.4-inch digital cluster (XLT buyers can also add the larger displays as an option)
Every Ranger runs SYNC 4 with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and you also have the option of exterior zone lighting.
Honda equips every Ridgeline with a 9-inch touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Wireless phone charging comes standard across all trims, while built-in navigation is included on TrailSport and Black Edition models.
Why the Ranger Is the Better Choice
Whether you're headed to the jobsite, towing a trailer, or looking for a truck that can handle both work and weekend adventures, the Ranger delivers the capability to do it all. Come and take it for a test drive today at Banner Ford of Mandeville!