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Ford Ranger MS-RT PHEV Goes Rally Mode
Ford is not bringing a brand-new mass-market model to the IAA Mobility show in Munich, but it is expanding its MS-RT portfolio with a rally-inspired take on the popular Ranger pickup. Built by M-Sport Road Technology (MS-RT) — the road-focused spin-off of Ford's European rally partner M-Sport — the new Ranger MS-RT PHEV combines aggressive styling, chassis tweaks and distinctive interior accents while retaining the plug-in hybrid powertrain of the production Ranger.
What is MS-RT?
MS-RT stands for M-Sport Road Technology and represents Ford’s performance and styling collaboration with M-Sport. Known for competition cars such as the M-Sport Ford Puma Rally WRC and various GT and rallycross entries, M-Sport applies motorsport-inspired design cues and dynamic enhancements to road-going Ford models. The Ranger MS-RT PHEV follows last year’s MS-RT versions of the Ranger and Transit Custom, bringing a similar rally-look treatment to Ford’s plug-in pickup.
Design: Muscular, Lower and Wider
The MS-RT package focuses first on visual identity and aerodynamic details. Up front the Ranger receives a honeycomb grille and integrated splitter that sharpen the face of the truck, while the rear bumper gains an integrated diffuser. Specially designed side skirts, flared wheel arches and spoilers on both the tailgate and the cab underscore the rally influence and help improve high-speed stability.
Beyond styling, the Ranger MS-RT PHEV has been physically altered to sit lower and wider than the standard model. Engineers revised the front dampers and retuned the rear suspension to lower ride height by 40 mm, giving the pickup a more planted stance. The track has been widened by 40 mm, and flared arches increase the overall width by 82 mm at each end. Visually this creates a tougher, more dynamic profile closer to M-Sport’s competition cars while still maintaining everyday usability.
Wheels and Tires
To fill the wider arches and emphasize the road-focused intent, Ford fitted diamond-cut 21-inch wheels wrapped in low-profile tires. The larger wheels and reduced sidewall height complement the lowered suspension, contributing to sharper on-road handling and a more assertive look.
Performance and Powertrain
Importantly, Ford left the Ranger’s PHEV powertrain unchanged. That means the MS-RT PHEV delivers the same performance figures as the standard plug-in model: a combined output of 277 hp and 697 Nm of torque. The hybrid system pairs a 2.3-litre EcoBoost gasoline engine with a 75 kW electric motor, an 11.8 kWh battery pack and a 10-speed automatic transmission. The setup enables up to around 25 miles (40 km) of all-electric driving and preserves the Ranger’s 3,500 kg (7,700 lb) towing capacity.
Drivability and Intended Use
MS-RT changes prioritize style and sharper on-road dynamics rather than transforming the truck into a full-blown off-road racer. The firmer suspension tuning and larger wheels favor cornering and highway stability, while the retained PHEV hardware keeps fuel consumption and emissions lower during urban driving. Buyers looking for extreme off-road capability or dedicated rally preparation should consider dedicated aftermarket or competition-spec models, but the Ranger MS-RT PHEV offers a balanced mix of capability, efficiency and character for enthusiasts who want motorsport flavor in a practical package.
Interior: Motorsport Details with Comfort
Inside, the Ranger MS-RT PHEV adopts several visual and tactile upgrades that reflect its sporty intent. The double-cab layout features sports seats upholstered in eco-leather and suede with blue contrast stitching and pronounced bolsters for enhanced lateral support. Ambient LED lighting is integrated into the front seats and even the floor mats, creating an attention-grabbing welcome ritual when the doors open.
The cabin also includes an MS-RT-specific steering wheel with a blue 12 o'clock marker and a 12-inch SYNC 4A touchscreen at the center of the dashboard. Standard equipment for this version includes a rear-view camera, Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control and 7 dual-zone electronic automatic temperature control, ensuring a modern blend of comfort, convenience and driver assistance technology.
Market Positioning and Availability
Ford confirmed the Ranger MS-RT PHEV will be offered in Europe, with orders opening later in the year and deliveries scheduled for 2026. Exact pricing has not been announced, but the MS-RT treatment is positioned as a premium, limited-run option that enhances design, exclusivity and driver engagement rather than outright performance gains.
Customers can select MS-RT-exclusive paint choices in addition to standard Ranger colors. Options include bold “kaleidoscopic” hues such as Turini Purple, Fast Blue and Yellow Green, designed to heighten visibility and underline the MS-RT’s motorsport connection.
Comparisons: MS-RT Ranger vs Standard Ranger and Rivals
Compared with the standard Ranger PHEV, the MS-RT model stands out through distinctive exterior and interior styling, a lower ride height, wider track and larger wheels. Mechanically it retains the same hybrid drivetrain and towing capacity, making it a styling and dynamics-focused alternative rather than a performance upgrade in terms of power output.
Against competitor pickups — such as the Toyota Hilux or other midsize PHEV pickups entering European markets — the Ranger MS-RT differentiates itself through brand provenance (M-Sport rally ties), heightened visual drama and a combination of electrified efficiency with everyday practicality. For buyers seeking a unique, motorsport-flavored pickup that is still suitable for family use, towing and light off-road duty, the MS-RT variant presents a compelling option.
Conclusion
The Ranger MS-RT PHEV brings M-Sport’s rally styling to Ford’s best-selling pickup in a way that emphasizes aesthetics, road manners and exclusivity while keeping the plug-in hybrid hardware intact. It’s an attractive proposition for enthusiasts wanting rally DNA without sacrificing the Ranger’s utility or efficiency. European buyers will be able to order the MS-RT PHEV later this year, with deliveries expected in 2026.
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