Ford has taken the International Pickup of the Year award for 2026 with the Ranger PHEV.

It’s the first time that a hybrid drivetrain has been honoured by the International Pickup Award jury

It marks the first time that a hybrid drivetrain has been honoured by the International Pickup Award (IPUA) jury.

Ford fended off competition from other 4×4 double cab candidates that included the Grenadier Quartermaster from British brand Ineos, along with the Foton V9 and Maxus T60 Max; both Chinese brands.

The Ranger PHEV (see our test here) scooped the title for its efficiency and low fuel consumption.

One of the judges said: “The Ford Ranger PHEV competed against a diverse bunch of competitors – and good and interesting ones – for the IPUA award 2026/2027. But in the end, the Ranger proved to be the best all-round and it has a smart driveline. If BEV’s not (yet) possible, go for PHEV.”

Jarlath Sweeney, chairman of the IPUA, said: “In delivering outstanding, class-leading performance with even greater efficiency and lower fuel costs for everyday journeys, the new Ranger PHEV seamlessly combines a 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol engine with a 75kW battery-powered motor. A choice of EV driving modes means you can drive on petrol, battery power, or a combination of the two. And with 281hp of power, 697Nm of torque, and up to 3,500kg maximum towing capacity, there’s no compromise to the iconic toughness and hard-working capability of Ford Ranger.”

The award – announced at the Solutrans 2025 Gala Dinner in Lyon, France – heralds Ford’s fourth International Pickup title in the 15-year history of the awards, putting it at the top of the leaderboard for the most IPUA accolades.

Hans Schep, general manager at Ford Pro Europe, said: “Having won with the all-new Ford Ranger in 2024, we deeply value the recognition the jury has now given to the electrified plug-in hybrid model, demonstrating the consistent excellence and innovative spirit that defines the Ranger lineage.

“Pickup customers rely on the capability of their vehicle to get the job done, and this recognition further validates that the Ranger PHEV doesn’t just match the uncompromising performance our customers expect from a Ranger – it elevates it.”