​​Ford Ranger Wins NACTOY Truck of the Year​

March 1st, 2025 by

2025 Ford Ranger NACTOY Winner

If the third time’s a charm, then what is the fifth time? Ford will soon find out. Dick Smith is proud to announce the North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year™ awards committee has named the redesigned Ford Ranger as the 2025 North American Truck of the Year. This marks the fifth consecutive year that a Ford truck has received this award. 

Candidates for the award must be new or substantially changed for the year. The determination comes from an independent jury of 50 automotive journalists from across the United States and Canada who produce print, broadcast, or digital media content. Winners are selected based on their combination of innovation, design, safety, performance, technology, user experience, driver satisfaction, and value. 

2024 Ford Ranger preproduction model shown. Available late summer 2023. Actual production vehicle may vary. Do not attempt unless you have special off-road driving training and are driving on a closed course. Always consult the owner’s manual before off-road driving, know your terrain and trail difficulty, and use appropriate safety gear.

Ford has produced an all-new or significantly redesigned truck for each of the past five years. Every time, Ford’s new truck has taken home this award—despite several new and redesigned truck lines from other manufacturers, including the entire mid-size truck segment. The North American Truck of the Year Award for the past five years is as follows: 

  • 2021 Ford F-150 (Redesigned) 
  • 2025 Ford Ranger (Redesigned) 

All New Ford Ranger Pro-Trailer Back Up Assist

“Earning this recognition celebrates our team’s dedication to continuously raising the bar for midsize truck customers,” said Jim Baumbick, vice president, Advanced Product Development, Cycle Plan, and Programs. “We rigorously tested Ranger in challenging environments around the world to deliver the Built Ford Tough durability our customers demand. This award is a tribute to our customers who inspire us every day.” 

All new Ford Ranger Front Side View

The Ford Ranger was tested across six continents, from the Australian Outback to U.S. highways. It is particularly popular in Australia, where it is Australia’s best-selling vehicle. It has been New Zealand’s best-selling vehicle for the past ten years. This is similar to the status the F-150 has in the United States. 

The Ranger is available with three engines, starting with the 2.3-liter EcoBoost, which produces 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Next, while V6 engines are disappearing from the segment, Ford offers a 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged V6 that produces 315 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. Finally, the mighty Raptor, which won the 2024 Baja 1000, is powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6, which generates 405 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque.  

All new Ford Ranger Rear Side View

The judges undoubtedly appreciated the new innovations in the Ranger, including its Pro Trailer Backup Assist, available Zone Lighting, over-the-air updates, and a revamped interior featuring digital gauge clusters, an available 12.0-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, and fold-flat rear seats that provide extra storage. 

It is the most capable Ranger ever and a class leader. See for yourself by visiting Dick Smith Ford of Columbia and test driving a new Ford Ranger.