The Ford Ranger PHEV has won the International Pick-Up Award, becoming the first hybrid model to receive the prestigious title.
It’s the fourth International Pick-up Award (IPUA) title for Ford in the fifteen-year history of the award, having won it repeatedly with previous versions of the Ford Ranger, including with the all-new model in 2024, when the biennial awards were last held.
The Ford Ranger PHEV beat competition from British-made Ineos, as well as Chinese brands Foton and Maxus.
The election of the 2026/27 International Pick-Up Award winner was decided after an extensive on-road and off-road test programme held in Bulgaria last month.
Ford’s new hybrid pick-up accumulated the most marks form the international jury, with the Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster coming in second ahead of the Foton V9. Also competing was the Maxus eTerron 9 and Maxus T60 Max.
“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 281 PS of power, 697 Nm of torque, and up to 3500kg maximum towing capacity. There’s no compromise to the iconic toughness and hard-working capability of Ford Ranger,” explained Jarlath Sweeney, chairman of the IVOTY & IPUA.
The trophy presentation was made at the Solutrans 2025 Gala Dinner at EurExpo, Lyon, where Chris Rushton Commercial Vehicle Marketing Manager, Ford Pro Europe said: "We are incredibly proud and honoured that the new Ford Ranger PHEV has been named the International Pick-up Award winner for 2026/27."
"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.”
Rushton continued: “Pick-up 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."
"With its electrification, the Ranger PHEV delivers even more, including the innovative Pro Power Onboard feature, which transforms the vehicle into a mobile power source. This significantly enhances productivity and utility on any job site, truly making it an ultimate partner for businesses across Europe," Schep added.
The Kia PV5 was also also named the winner of the International Van of the Year 2026 at the solutrans gala dinner.
The PV5 beat competition from the Farizon SV, Ford E-Transit Courier and the Volkswagen Transporter and MAN TGE to be named the best new van of the year.
