Hybrid Hero Rises

Ford’s Ranger Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) has taken home the International Pick-up Award (IPUA) for 2026 to 2027, marking a major milestone for the model and for hybrid trucks worldwide. It is the fourth time in 15 years that the Ranger nameplate has earned the title. This year’s win is also historic because it is the first time a hybrid pickup has topped the competition.

The latest round of evaluations took place in Bulgaria, where a 23-member jury of automotive journalists put several double-cab 4×4 contenders through challenging on-road and off-road tests. The routes around Samokov and Sapareva Banja included the rugged trails near the Rila mountains and the demanding Verila region. The Ranger PHEV ended up leading the group, beating strong rivals including the Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster, Foton V9 Hybrid, and Maxus T60.

Judges highlighted how the Ranger PHEV managed to combine hybrid efficiency with dependable power and capability. The plug-in system pairs a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine with a 75 kW electric motor, delivering a total of 281 horsepower and 697 Nm of torque. It also keeps a maximum towing capacity of up to 3,500 kilograms, allowing it to perform like a traditional workhorse while offering zero-emission driving in EV mode.

IPUA Chairman Jarlath Sweeney described the model as offering class-leading performance along with lower running costs. Ford executives echoed the pride, noting that this recognition reflects the consistent development of the Ranger lineup. One feature that also stood out to jurors is Pro Power Onboard, which lets users power tools and devices directly from the vehicle.