2026 Ford Ranger Super Duty vs Toyota LandCruiser 79 Series: Spec comparison

The 2026 Ford Ranger Super Duty is gearing up to challenge the long-held dominance of the Toyota LandCruiser 79 Series in Australia’s tough work and off-road ute segment.

While the LandCruiser has earned its reputation over decades as a rugged, go-anywhere machine, the Ranger Super Duty promises to rewrite the rulebook with serious payload, torque, and towing figures. This showdown breaks down how these two heavy hitters stack up, especially for those who need more than just a weekend cruiser – it’s about real work, big loads, and getting through harsh terrain without compromise.

JUMP AHEAD

• Payload
• Towing and GCM
• Powertrain
• Off-road dimensions
• Weight and load ratings
• Pricing

Payload

Payload figures for the Ranger Super Duty are based on the Cab-Chassis variants, which offer the highest ratings in the lineup. The Single Cab leads with a payload capacity of up to 1,982 kg, followed by the Super Cab at 1,896 kg and the Double Cab at 1,825 kg. These numbers clearly target commercial operators and fleet users who require maximum legal carrying capacity.

In comparison, the LandCruiser 79 Series offers a payload range from 1,310 kg (Double Cab) to 1,380 kg (Single Cab). While still respectable and long trusted for remote operations, the Cruiser trails the Ford on the spec sheet in terms of payload performance.

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Towing and GCM

The Ranger Super Duty Cab-Chassis is engineered for serious pulling power, rated to tow up to 4,500 kg with a braked trailer. It also delivers an 8,000 kg Gross Combined Mass (GCM), allowing more flexibility for heavy loads, trailers, or fifth-wheel setups.

The 79 Series, while long regarded for its towing dependability, falls behind with a 3,500 kg braked towing capacity and a GCM of 7,010 kg. It’s still more than capable for most off-road and farm duties, but the numbers speak to the Ford’s modern engineering edge.

Powertrain

Under the bonnet, the Ranger Super Duty features Ford’s 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel, producing 154 kW and a class-leading 600 Nm of torque. It’s a modern unit aimed at high-load, high-duty cycles typical of mining, fleet, and rural service vehicles.

The 79 Series offers buyers two engine choices. The newer 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel, paired with a six-speed automatic, delivers 150 kW and 500 Nm. The long-serving 4.5-litre V8 turbo-diesel produces 151 kW and 430 Nm – less torque, but valued for its simplicity and off-road reliability.

Off-Road dimensions

The Ranger Super Duty Cab-Chassis maintains solid off-road credentials, with ground clearance between 297 mm and 299 mm, and a best-in-class wading depth of 850 mm. While not marketed as a pure off-roader, the clearances and approach angles suggest it can handle remote and rugged worksites with confidence.

The LandCruiser 79 Series remains one of Australia’s most trusted off-roaders. Its clearance ranges from 302 mm to 330 mm depending on variant and tyres, and it manages a wading depth of 700 mm. For sheer outback dependability, it still has the edge on clearance.

Weight and load ratings

Weight capacity matters when towing or working off-road fully loaded. The Ranger Super Duty Cab-Chassis has a GVM of 4,500 kg – the legal limit before requiring a light rigid (LR) truck licence – and a GCM of 8,000 kg.

The 79 Series carries a GVM of 3,510 kg and GCM of 7,010 kg. These figures keep it firmly within standard car licence territory, though it gives up some capacity compared to the Ford.

Pricing

The Ranger Super Duty Cab-Chassis lineup starts at $82,990 for the Single Cab, climbs to $86,490 for the Super Cab, and tops out at $89,990 for the Double Cab. These prices reflect its high payload and towing figures, and target heavy-duty operators and commercial buyers.

LandCruiser 79 Series pricing varies more depending on trim and engine. Single Cab models range from $76,800 for the 2.8 WorkMate to $85,000 for the 4.5 GXL. Double Cab variants range from $77,300 to $87,600. It remains a premium-priced product with reputation and longevity on its side.

Final say

The upcoming Ranger Super Duty marks a significant step forward in the mid-size truck segment. More detailed information on the XLT trim and pick-up body styles will be revealed closer to the vehicle’s official release, promising added refinement and versatility for private and recreational buyers.