2025 Ford Ranger PHEV Review – Australia’s Strongest Plug-In Ute Has Landed
2025 Ford Ranger PHEV Australia Review: ute dual-cab with EV-exclusive range, 697 Nm torque, 3.5T towing & worksite power. Coming Q3 2025. All specs, price & verdict within.
“When the bush calls and the boss calls, now you can answer both — on battery power.”
The mighty Pickup has come of age, but it has regained an electric muscle. Say hello to the 2025 Ford Ranger PHEV, a game-changing plug-in hybrid dual-cab that doesn’t simply want to check all the sustainability boxes — it re-writes the ute rulebook, period. Half tradie, half tech-head, and half trail-blazer, this is the sort of car that will get nods of approval from both your accountant and your inner rev-head.
From Diesel Grime to Digital Drive: The Ranger Story Continues
The Ranger has been the choice ute for Aussie builders, families, and weekend warriors for decades. It’s been used to back into a Sydney job site or transport dirt bikes across the Outback.
But in 2025, the legend receives a quiet upgrade — literally. The world’s first Ford Ranger PHEV boasts diesel-slaying torque, EV-exclusive driving for local runs, and off-road robustness, slashing fuel costs and emissions along the way.
And no, it hasn’t lost its rugged streak. It just became a little smarter.
Build and Interior: A Mechanics Office Meets a Tech Startup
Slide into the cabin, and you’re met with a space that feels less “industrial” and more “executive.”
Materials: Soft-touch dash materials but durable, hoseable vinyl or stitched leather. Every part feels solid — as if it could survive a rogue Bunnings trolley.
Infotainment: A crisp 12-inch vertical touchscreen houses SYNC 4A, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and FordPass remote start.
Digital Cluster: All-digital 12.4″ instrument cluster with EV energy flow graphics — it’s the ute equivalent of a cockpit.
Storage: Useful cubbies throughout, USB-C in the front and the tray, and rear under-seat storage bins for your power tools or your kid’s footy boots.
It’s a ute that’s equally up for spreadsheets as it is sand tracks.
Exterior Design: This Plug-in’s Got Swagger
It looks like just another rugged-looking Ranger from afar — until you notice the discreet PHEV badging and the secret charging port on the front left fender.
C-clamp Matrix LEDs encircle the strong grille like Thor’s hammer.
Rugged stance with flared arches, elevated ground clearance, and 20-inch alloys (on Wildtrak/Stormtrak).
Dual-tone sports bars, side steps, and signature hues such as Luxe Yellow and Sedona Orange turn the style knob up to 11.
Yes, it still has that mountain-knockdown look. Now, it does it with electrons.
Powertrain and Performance: Diesel Who?
Let’s discuss numbers — and these numbers slap.
2.3L EcoBoost turbo petrol with 75 kW electric motor assist
Combined Output: ~207 kW & massive 697 Nm of torque
Transmission: 10-speed automatic with full-time 4WD
EV Range: Up to 50 km electric-only — ideal for sneaking away at 6 a.m. without disturbing the neighbours
Fuel Economy: Down to 2.7 L/100 km
Whether crawling through mud, towing a caravan up the Blue Mountains, or scorching Melbourne traffic on battery power — this hybrid does it all, and then some.
Capabilities: It Still Gets Dirty
This isn’t a greenwashed display show pony. It’s seriously work-cred.
Towing Capacity: A heavy 3,500 kg braked — diesel’s equal.
Payload: ~973 kg (trims vary)
Drive Modes: Sand, Mud, Rock Crawl, Tow/Haul, EV Auto
Rear Diff Lock, Hill Descent Control, Off-road screen — still your Ranger, just cleverer.
Bonus: Pro Power Onboard
Plug in your circular saw. Or your Nespresso. Or your drone. With 6.9 kW of power outlets, the Ranger PHEV can power your worksite or your weekend destiny.
Pricing and Availability (Australia)
Variant Price (est. AUD)
XLT PHEV $71,990
Sport PHEV $76,990
Wildtrak PHEV $84,990
Stormtrak PHEV $88,490
On sale: From Q3 2025
Available nationwide via Ford Australia
Eligible for EV rebates & tax benefits (check your state)
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Epic torque: 697 Nm is no laughing matter
EV driving saves $$ every day
Still manages to tow 3.5 tonnes
Worksite power without a generator
Rich tech, premium interiors
Cons:
More expensive than diesel (but balanced by fuel savings)
Battery adds weight, slightly reducing payload
No DC fast charging (AC only)
EV-only range capped at 50 km
Final Verdict: Should You Plug In?
The 2025 Ford Ranger PHEV is not just a good ute for a hybrid — it’s a good ute, period. It resets our expectations of what we should be able to achieve from a dual-cab by introducing real-world electric capability to a segment that’s been stuck in diesel territory for decades.
Whether you’re a tradie, a weekend warrior, or just someone tired of giving your wallet a workout at the servo — this ute delivers torque, tech, and toughness in equal measure.
And let’s be honest… saying “I charge my Ranger at home” just feels cool.
FAQ
Q: What is the EV only range of the Ford Ranger PHEV?
A: 50 km from a single full charge — perfect for daily drives or work sites.
Q: Is the Ranger PHEV as capable when towing diesel only?
A: It has the same 3,500 kg braked towing capability.
Q: Can I take this ute off-road?
A: Of course. It includes 4WD, off-road modes, locking rear diff, and trail-tuned suspension.
Q: How quickly can the battery be charged?
A: 3–4 hours on domestic AC charging; ~7 hours from a wall outlet.
Q: Does the Ranger PHEV come to Australia?
A: Yes, deliveries start from August 2025. Pre-orders available now.
