The highly anticipated 2026 Ford Ranger Super Duty is set to redefine the capabilities of mid-size utes in Australia, particularly for slide-on camper enthusiasts. With its enhanced payload capacity and robust engineering, this new variant promises to expand the horizons for outdoor adventurers and hard working roles.
Vehicle Configuration and Tray Options
The 2026 Ranger Super Duty is expected to be offered in several configurations optimised for commercial and recreational applications. Since we manufacture slide-on campers, here is what the key variants may likely include for us at least:
• Cab chassis configurations ready for aftermarket tray fitment
• Factory tray back variants with aluminum tray options
• Higher trim level models that can be converted from style side tub to tray back
The base specifications showcase impressive capabilities:
• 4,500kg Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM)
• 4,500kg braked towing capacity
• 8,000kg Gross Combination Mass (GCM)
• Uprated chassis and suspension components
• Wider track width for enhanced stability
• Eight-lug wheel configuration for increased load capacity
Back in 2023; we mentioned that we “caught a whiff” of something bigger to be coming on the coattails of the extended wheelbase version spied in this blog – possible longer wheelbase. However, it seems these upgrades are a pleasant surprise on top of what we predicted.
Tray Configuration Considerations
For slide-on camper applications, the tray setup is crucial. While factory tray options may suffice, many owners opt for specialised aftermarket solutions offering:
• Heavy-duty aluminum construction for optimal weight savings
• Integrated under-tray storage systems
• Built-in water tank mounting points
• Pull-out drawer systems for equipment access
• Reinforced mounting points for camper tie-downs
• Enhanced load distribution design
* Integrated sensors and camera mounts
What This Means for Slide-On Camper Owners
The increased GVM of 4,500kg represents a significant upgrade for slide-on camper applications. For context, typical Trayon Campers weigh between 370-410kg dry weight, with loaded weights around 600-650kg. This enhanced capacity allows owners to carry:
- Full camping setup with extended water and fuel capacity
- Additional recovery gear for remote area travel
- Extra storage for longer expeditions
- Extra water and fuel
- Extra spare tyres
- Extra 4WD accessories
- Comprehensive tool kit and spare parts
Most of the common utes in the mid-size segment have a payload of 800kg – 1.2tonne with their overall GVM between 3000 and 3500, this is quickly used up with things like bull bars and it’s a fine line. However, this super duty could give you extra headroom and peace of mind BUT what we do not know yet is how much weight has been added to the kerb weight of the Superduty over that of the standard Ranger with the additional suspension components and the upgrading of the running gear.
This is a problem commonly found in the small truck segment with vehicles like the NPS 4×4 and the Canter 4×4 truck or even the large American utes like the Ram 2500 or the F250. They can have their GVM’s close to 4500kg to be able to drive with a normal car license but as everything on the truck is overall heavier than a mid-sized ute, the payload capacity is often lacking. Things like tyre size and rim size increases, plus the addition of extra-heavy duty differentials, running gear, and thicker/larger chassis, means the kerb weights of these trucks are much heavier than a mid-sized ute and therefore need every bit of the 4500kg GVM to be able to offer surprisingly low payload capacities.
The big old Dodge Ram 2500 Laramie crew cab is the perfect example, as standard the vehicle’s kerb weight is stated online in the vehicle specifications as 3667kg and a total GVM of 4495kg leaving only 828kg for payload which is supposed to include all passengers and fuel in the tank let alone what you have to load in the tray still.
If the super-duty Ranger does come out with what seems implied, a dual-rear wheel and additional steel on things like the chassis strengthening additions then this will all add kerb weight on top of that what the current Ranger has. How much remains to be seen but surely the masterminds at Ford would have considered this, they would not make the kerb weight of the Superduty so much more that it would be more beneficial to take a standard Ranger and put a max 3800kg GVM upgrade on it and gain more payload than that of the Superduty which can’t be upgraded further within the normal license category.
Technical Upgrades and Practical Benefits
Ford Australia’s engineering team has implemented several key improvements:
Chassis and Suspension
The Super Duty variant features strengthened chassis components and upgraded suspension, including cast aluminum control arms similar to those found in the Ranger Raptor. This enhancement particularly benefits slide-on camper applications by providing:
• Better weight distribution
• Improved articulation on rough terrain
• Enhanced stability under varying load conditions
• Superior heat management for extended remote travel
Wheel and Tyre Configuration
The shift to an eight-lug wheel setup, combined with 18-inch wheels and 33-inch diameter tyres, offers several advantages:
• Increased load-bearing capacity
• Better brake cooling
• Enhanced durability for remote area travel
• Improved ground clearance
Potential Considerations for Camper Owners
While the Super Duty brings numerous advantages, there are some factors to consider:
• The wider track width may affect maneuverability on narrow tracks
• Potential dual rear wheel configuration might impact off-road capability
• Height considerations with existing slide-on camper configurations
* The added width of the wheel track would mean extra-wide trays and this may exceed what some campers and canopies can reach.
Market Position and Price Expectations
Given the specialized nature of the Super Duty and its enhanced capabilities, we anticipate pricing to position above the current Ranger lineup but below the F-150:
• Expected base price range: $80,000 – $90,000 AUD
• Higher trim levels potentially reaching $100k+ AUD
Note, this is just speculation, prices are not defined yet.
Future Modifications and Aftermarket Support
The Australian aftermarket industry is likely to develop solutions specifically for the super duty.
• Super single rear wheel conversions if they come with dual configuration
• Specialized suspension tuning packages
• Front bars, roof racks, bash bars
• Custom tray designs etc
Real-World Applications
The Ranger Super Duty’s specifications make it particularly suitable for:
• Extended remote area travel with full camping setup
• High-payload expedition configurations
• Multiple-purpose vehicles requiring both work and recreational capability
• Long-distance touring with comprehensive equipment loads
* Heavy hauler with its massive 4500kg towing capacity
Conclusion
The 2026 Ford Ranger Super Duty represents a significant evolution in the mid-size ute segment, particularly for slide-on camper enthusiasts. Its enhanced payload capacity, robust engineering, and thoughtful design improvements make it a compelling option for those seeking to push the boundaries of remote area travel.
Without yet knowing what actual payload capacities it will have, it remains to be seen if it will be a true workhorse for Australia, certainly the towing capacity will make it a prime choice for larger caravans and work trailers, even boats that push the 3500kg capacities already.
For Trayon Camper owners and enthusiasts, this new platform could offer exciting possibilities for future adventures, combining increased capability with practical everyday usability. As we await its arrival in 2026, it’s clear that Ford has created a vehicle that could redefine what’s possible in the slide-on camper space.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 Ranger Super Duty
What tray configurations will work best with slide-on campers?
The Super Duty’s wider track width and enhanced payload capacity present new opportunities for optimised tray setups. While factory tray options will be available, we recommend considering specialised aftermarket aluminum trays designed specifically for slide-on camper applications. These typically offer superior weight distribution, integrated storage solutions, and proper tie-down points. Consult with both your tray manufacturer and camper supplier to ensure optimal compatibility and weight distribution.
How does the payload capacity compare to standard Rangers?
The Super Duty’s 4,500kg GVM represents approximately a 40-50% increase over standard Ranger variants. This translates to roughly 600-800kg of additional payload capacity, depending on vehicle configuration and accessories. This is significantly more than the average ute. The only other ute that has attempted this is the Merceded G-Professional which sadly was discontinued in Australia. However, as mentioned, without knowing the kerb weights, that 4500kg GVM may be eaten up already.
What impact will the eight-lug wheel configuration have on remote travel?
The eight-lug setup provides enhanced load capacity and improved brake cooling. However, it may limit wheel choice for remote travel. We anticipate aftermarket manufacturers will develop compatible options specifically for expedition use within 6-12 months of launch.
Can I expect increased fuel consumption with the Super Duty?
While official figures aren’t yet available, the enhanced payload capacity and wider track width suggest a modest increase in fuel consumption. However, the efficiency impact when carrying a slide-on camper should be proportionally less than with current Rangers due to the optimized drivetrain.
Will the Super Duty require special suspension tuning for slide-on camper use?
The factory suspension utilises Raptor-derived components and is engineered for heavy loads. However, we recommend specific tuning for consistent slide-on camper use, particularly for extended remote area travel. This ensures optimal handling and load distribution.
