Ford Explorer Towing Capacity Explained
Wondering how much a Ford Explorer can tow? The 2023 model handles between 5,000 and 5,600 pounds.
This guide covers the towing capacity, from engine types to specifications across models. It’s perfect for those planning trips with boats or campers.
Knowing how much your vehicle can tow is key to a safe, efficient trip. The 2.3L EcoBoost® 4-Cylinder engine allows towing up to 5,300 pounds.
The 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine, seen in Platinum and ST trims, can tow up to 5,600 pounds. For eco-friendly drivers, the 3.3L Hybrid engine tows up to 5,000 pounds.
Choosing rear-wheel drive adds another 600 pounds to your towing capacity. The Class III Trailer Tow Package boosts your Ford Explorer’s towing ability.
It fits the 2.3L EcoBoost® and 3.3L Hybrid engines. The 3.0L EcoBoost® engine comes with it standard.
Features like Intelligent 4WD with Terrain Management System™ and AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control™ improve your towing stability and safety.
Next, we will explore the towing capacities of different Ford Explorer trims and the effects of various engines on performance.
Plus, you’ll get useful towing tips and see how this SUV compares with others.
Whether you own one or plan to buy, this guide gives you the info to use your Explorer’s towing abilities fully.
Introduction to Ford Explorer Towing Capacity
The Ford Explorer is great for practical uses, especially its towing ability. If you want to pull a small boat or need help with a utility trailer, this car is ready for you.
Towing capacity differs between the Explorer models. For example, the 2022 model can tow up to 5,600 pounds.
This proves it’s strong enough for hefty tasks without needing a heavy-duty truck.
The Explorer comes with different engines, each with its towing capacity. The 2.3L EcoBoost® engine has a towing power of up to 5,300 pounds.
Meanwhile, the 3.3L Hybrid can tow up to 5,000 pounds. For the most strength, the 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine can pull up to 5,600 pounds.
These options show the Explorer is capable and flexible for various towing needs.
Over time, the towing capacity of the Explorer has gotten better, thanks to design and engineering improvements.
Adding a rear-wheel-drive configuration can add up to 600 pounds of towing capability compared to older versions.
This ensures you get the most from your Explorer, for fun or work. With a strong history and growing towing powers, the Explorer remains a trusted choice for towing.
| Engine Option | Towing Capacity |
|---|---|
| 2.3L EcoBoost® 4-Cylinder | 5,300 pounds |
| 3.3L Hybrid | 5,000 pounds |
| 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 | 5,600 pounds |
What’s Towing Capacity?
Looking at vehicles like the Ford Explorer, it’s key to grasp towing capacity for safe, effective towing.
This term refers to the highest weight your vehicle can tow, including the trailer and its load. Knowing this is essential for those planning to use their SUV for towing.
Definition of Towing Capacity
Towing capacity definition is all about the max weight your car can tow safely. It ensures no harm comes to the engine, brakes, or body of the car.
For instance, the 2019 Ford Explorer’s towing ability varies from 3,000 to 5,000 pounds, based on its setup and equipment.
Factors Affecting Towing Capacity
Many factors affecting towing capacity influence how much a Ford Explorer can tow.
Important ones include the engine, vehicle design, and towing gear. Let’s dive into these factors:
Engine Size and Type: Your engine choice greatly affects towing power. The Ford Explorer comes with engines like the 3.5L V6, hitting 290 hp and 255 lb-ft of torque, and the 2.3L EcoBoost® 4-Cylinder, with 280 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque.
Towing Packages: A towing package boosts the vehicle’s load handling. For example, the Class II Trailer Tow Package on the 2.3L EcoBoost® engine increases towing capacity to 3,000 pounds. Meanwhile, the Class III Trailer Tow Package on the 3.5L EcoBoost® allows for towing up to 5,000 pounds.
Vehicle Design: The design of the vehicle also matters a lot. Features like the Intelligent 4WD with the Terrain Management System™ give the needed grip for various terrains. At the same time, the AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control™ offers improved control while towing.
By understanding these factors, you can better judge the maximum load your Ford Explorer can manage. This ensures safer, more efficient towing.
Maximum Towing Capacity of The Ford Explorer
When we talk about the Ford Explorer, it’s key to know how much it can tow. This info is vital for those thinking of buying, especially if they plan to tow often.
Let’s look into the towing capacities for different trims and see how engine choices affect them.
Towing Capacities of Different Ford Explorer Trims
Each trim of the Ford Explorer offers different towing capacities to fit your needs. Let’s dive into what each trim can handle:
| Trim Level | Engine | Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Base | 2.3L EcoBoost® I4 | 5,300 lbs |
| XLT | 2.3L EcoBoost® I4 | 5,300 lbs |
| Limited | 3.3L Hybrid | 5,000 lbs |
| ST | 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 | 5,600 lbs |
| Platinum | 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 | 5,600 lbs |
Adding the Class III Trailer Tow Package, which comes standard with the 3.0L EcoBoost® engine, maximizes towing power.
The towing capacity of the Ford Explorer’s trims is really impressive. It offers great versatility, making it a top pick for any towing job.
Engine Options and Their Impact on Towing
The Ford Explorer’s engine options are designed to meet various needs, especially in towing. Let’s see how each engine performs:
- 2.3L EcoBoost® I4: Produces 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. It can tow up to 5,300 lbs, great for mid-level towing needs.
- 3.3L Hybrid: Offers 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque. This allows for towing up to 5,000 lbs, combining efficiency with capability.
- 3.0L EcoBoost® V6: Delivers up to 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque in ST trims. It has a max towing capacity of 5,600 lbs, ideal for heavy-duty towing.
The top trims with the 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine shine with their strong towing abilities.
Regardless of which you pick, every option offers dependable towing solutions for a variety of needs.
How Much Can a Ford Explorer Tow
The Ford Explorer is a strong SUV that can tow a lot. It’s often asked, “how much can a Ford Explorer tow?” Let’s look at the towing limits for its different engines and trims.
The Ford Explorer can tow up to 5,600 pounds when set up right. This makes it perfect for pulling things like fishing boats and camping trailers.
Below is a quick look at the Ford Explorer tow rating for different setups:
| Engine | Max Towing Capacity (lbs) | Horsepower | Torque (lb-ft) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 | 5,300 | 300 | 310 |
| 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 | 5,600 | 400 | 415 |
| 3.3L Hybrid V6 | 5,000 | 318 | 322 |
The Explorer also has great features for towing, like the Class III Trailer Tow Package. It also has the Terrain Management System™.
The SUV has 7 driving modes — Sport, Tow/Haul, Eco, Normal, Trail, Deep Snow/Sand, and Slippery. These modes help you drive in different conditions.
In short, the Ford Explorer is made for outdoor fun. It offers the power and versatility needed for easy and safe towing. It’s ready to pull your small trailer or larger boat without any issue.
Ford Explorer Towing Capabilities by Model Year
Looking into different Ford Explorer models shows how towing technology and engine power have grown.
We’ll focus on the towing specs for the 2020 and 2025 Ford Explorer models. We’ll see what makes each model’s performance special.
2020 Ford Explorer Towing Specs
The 2020 Ford Explorer had strong engines, laying the groundwork for towing. Here are the main specs:
| Engine Type | Towing Capacity |
|---|---|
| 2.3L EcoBoost I4 | 5,300 lbs |
| 3.0L EcoBoost V6 | 5,600 lbs |
| 3.3L Hybrid | 5,000 lbs |
In 2020, equipped with a 3.0L EcoBoost V6, you could tow up to 5,600 pounds. The towing capacity for all models was at least 5,000 pounds.
This ensured strong performance for different towing needs.
2025 Ford Explorer Towing Specs
People are excited about the 2025 Ford Explorer, as it aims to top previous towing performances. Here are the expected specs:
| Engine Type | Towing Capacity |
|---|---|
| 2.3L EcoBoost I4 (updated) | 5,500 lbs |
| 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (enhanced) | 6,000 lbs |
| Hybrid Powertrain | 5,200 lbs |
The 2025 model is expected to tow up to 6,000 pounds with an enhanced 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine.
This shows a big improvement, meaning the 2025 Explorer can handle tougher towing jobs than before.
Detailed Ford Explorer Towing Specs
When looking into the Ford Explorer towing specs, focusing on different years and engines is key. This helps you decide what works best for your towing needs.
The 2022 Ford Explorer can tow up to 5,600 pounds with the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine.
All 2022 models manage at least 5,000 pounds, no matter the engine. Here’s more detail on the 2022 Explorer’s engines:
- 2.3L EcoBoost I4: 300 HP, 310 lb.-ft. torque
- 3.0L EcoBoost V6: 400 HP, 415 lb.-ft. torque
- 3.3L Hybrid: Combined 318 HP, 322 lb.-ft. torque
The 2019 Ford Explorer’s towing ability changes with each engine type. For example:
- 2.3L Turbocharged EcoBoost I4: 3,000 pounds
- 3.5L Ti-VCT V6: 5,000 pounds
- 3.5L Twin-Turbocharged EcoBoost V6: 5,000 pounds
Thinking about the Ford Explorer towing package is vital too. It boosts your towing power with things like strong radiators, better cooling, and extra wiring.
See this table for the 2022 Ford Explorer’s main towing stats:
| Engine | Horsepower (HP) | Torque (lb.-ft.) | Max Towing Capacity (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.3L EcoBoost I4 | 300 | 310 | 5,300 |
| 3.0L EcoBoost V6 | 400 | 415 | 5,600 |
| 3.3L Hybrid V6 | 318 | 322 | 5,000 |
Whether you go for the powerful 3.0L EcoBoost V6 or the eco-friendly Hybrid V6, understanding the Ford Explorer towing specs helps pick the right model.
Plus, the Ford Explorer towing package significantly upgrades performance and safety while towing.
Ford Explorer Towing Package Options
If you’re looking into the Ford Explorer for towing, it’s key to know about its towing packages and features.
This SUV comes with strong options for better towing, like the Ford Explorer Class III Trailer Tow Package. These options help improve towing power and safety.
Class III Trailer Tow Package
For heavy loads, the Ford Explorer Class III Trailer Tow Package is ideal. It lets the SUV tow up to 5,600 pounds with the 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine.
With the 2.3L EcoBoost® and 3.3L hybrid engines, it can tow 5,300 pounds and 5,000 pounds, respectively. The main parts of this package include:
- Upgraded rear axle
- Enhanced engine cooling system
- Class III trailer hitch receiver
- Wiring harness with four- and seven-pin connectors
Additional Towing Features
The Ford Explorer also offers more towing help to make towing smoother and safer. These extra features come standard or as options on different trims.
They improve towing performance. Notable features include:
- Trailer Sway Control: Adjusts engine power and wheels to keep the trailer stable.
- Hill Start Assist: Stops you from rolling back on hills by holding the brakes.
- Intelligent 4WD System: Gives better traction and control, crucial for towing on different roads.
- AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control™: Keeps the SUV stable and prevents tipping over in tight situations.
| Engine | Maximum Towing Capacity | Available with Class III Trailer Tow Package |
|---|---|---|
| 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 | 5,600 pounds | Standard |
| 2.3L EcoBoost® I4 | 5,300 pounds | Available |
| 3.3L Hybrid | 5,000 pounds | Available |
Choosing the Ford Explorer means getting a vehicle with top towing tech for safety and capability.
Whether you pick the Ford Explorer Class III Trailer Tow Package or use the extra towing features, it’s a great pick for towing.
Essential Ford Explorer Towing Features
When towing with your Ford Explorer, knowing about safety and stability features is key.
The Ford Explorer has systems to help you feel confident while driving. These systems make towing safer and easier for you.
Trailer Sway Control
Trailer Sway Control is a smart feature that helps prevent the trailer from swaying. It checks the trailer’s movement and uses brakes on specific wheels to stop sway.
This feature is great whether you’re towing 5,600 pounds with a 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine or 5,300 pounds with a 2.3L EcoBoost® 4-cylinder engine.
It keeps your cargo stable and safe, even in tough driving conditions.
Intelligent 4WD System
The Ford Explorer’s Intelligent 4WD System is built for excellent traction and handling when towing heavy loads.
It changes how power is shared between the front and rear wheels to improve control. This feature is especially useful in rain or on rough trails.
The Intelligent 4WD System gives you steady performance and enhances your towing capability.
Alongside the Terrain Management System™ with its Tow/Haul Mode, you can confidently tow up to 5,000 pounds.
With these systems, the Explorer makes towing safer and more efficient. They ensure you feel secure while on the road.
Comparing Ford Explorer Towing Capacity with Other SUVs
Choosing an SUV for towing means looking at the Ford Explorer, Ford Expedition, and Ford F-150. Each has unique towing abilities and features.
Knowing the differences helps in picking the right one for you.
Ford Explorer vs. Ford Expedition
The Ford Explorer can tow up to 5,600 pounds with its 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine. It’s good for towing trailers or small boats.
But, the Ford Expedition has more towing power. The 2021 Ford Expedition, with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Towing Package, tows up to 9,300 pounds.
Its Expedition MAX version even tows 9,000 pounds. For heavy-duty towing needs, the Expedition is best.
Ford Explorer vs. Ford F-150
The Ford Explorer is a strong SUV, but the Ford F-150 leads in towing capacity. Known for its strength, the F-150 tows up to 14,000 pounds.
This is ideal for those who tow heavy loads often. Although the Explorer tows up to 5,600 pounds, it offers smoother driving for daily use. It strikes a balance for those who tow and commute.
| Model | Maximum Towing Capacity (Pounds) |
|---|---|
| Ford Explorer | 5,600 |
| Ford Expedition | 9,300 |
| Ford F-150 | 14,000 |
Ford Explorer Towing Capacity Chart
The Ford Explorer comes with different towing powers, based on the engine and the year it was made.
Here’s a detailed Ford Explorer towing capacity chart for you. It lets you easily check and compare the towing strengths of various Ford Explorer versions.
| Model Year | Engine | Towing Capacity (lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 3.0L EcoBoost V6 | 5,600 |
| 2020 | 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 | 5,300 |
| 2020 | 3.3L Hybrid V6 | 5,000 |
| 2025 | 3.0L EcoBoost V6 | 5,600 |
| 2025 | 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 | 5,300 |
| 2025 | 3.3L Hybrid V6 | 5,000 |
| 2025 | Timberline™ 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 | 5,300 |
Looking at the Ford Explorer towing capacity chart, picking the right engine matters a lot for your towing needs.
Whether you go for the strong 3.0L EcoBoost V6 or choose the hybrid, it’s key to know these limits.
This way, you can plan better for any hauling tasks with your Ford Explorer.
Practical Towing Tips For Ford Explorer Owners
Towing with your Ford Explorer can be both safe and efficient. Just follow these key tips. They ensure smooth towing and help you use your vehicle’s full potential.
Safe Towing Practices
To start towing safely, you need to prepare well. Check that your Ford Explorer’s towing capability fits your needs.
For example, a 2016 Ford Explorer with certain features can tow up to 5,000 lbs.
- Check Weight Limits: Stay below the vehicle’s maximum ratings to avoid overloading. The axles also have specific weight limits to respect.
- Distribute Weight Evenly: A balanced trailer load is crucial. Aim for the tongue weight to be about 13% of the total trailer weight.
- Secure Your Load: Tighten all cargo to prevent sway and ensure stability.
- Regular Inspections: Always check hitch connections, tire pressure, and both the vehicle’s and trailer’s condition before leaving.
Maximizing Towing Efficiency
Enhancing towing efficiency reduces wear and boosts performance. Follow these steps with your Ford Explorer:
- Use Tow/Haul Mode: This feature adjusts your vehicle for better power and fuel economy.
- Maintain Steady Speeds: Avoid sudden movements to reduce fuel use and stress on the vehicle.
- Monitor Gauges: Watch your vehicle’s temperature gauges to prevent overheating.
- Plan Your Route: Choose paths with fewer hills or sharp turns to save fuel and ease the engine’s work.
Using real examples shows how matching your towing habits to your vehicle’s specs is vital. For optimal performance, manage your vehicle’s load wisely.
By following these tips on safe towing and efficiency, you can enjoy trouble-free towing with your Ford Explorer.
| 2023 Ford Bronco Sport Heritage Limited AWD | 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning (Extended-Range) | 2023 Ford Expedition 4×2 | 2016 Ford Explorer (Tow Package) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Max Towing Capacity | 2,200 lbs | 10,000 lbs | 9,300 lbs | 5,000 lbs |
| Max Tongue Weight | 220 lbs | 1,000 lbs | 930 lbs | 500 lbs |
| GVWR | 4,500 lbs | 8,250 lbs | 7,850 lbs | 6,180 lbs |
| GCWR | 7,500 lbs | 18,000 lbs | 15,200 lbs | 10,150 lbs |
Conclusion
We’ve looked at the Ford Explorer’s great towing abilities in this guide. It’s a top choice for towing, with newer models pulling up to 5,600 lbs when they have the right equipment.
The 2025 Ford Explorer stands out by towing 5,000 pounds with its Class III Trailer Tow Package.
The Ford Explorer gives you different engines for your towing needs. The strong 3.0L EcoBoost V6 gets you 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque for heavy towing.
The 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 mixes good towing power with better gas mileage, getting 21 MPG in the city and 28 on the highway.
With 87.8 cubic feet of cargo space and an advanced 4WD system, the Ford Explorer is ready for almost anything.
Adding the Class III Trailer Tow Package to all versions makes sure you can tow easily. Picking the right Explorer model and features lets you use its towing power fully.
FAQs
How much can a Ford Explorer tow?
The Ford Explorer’s towing capacity changes with the model year, trim, and engine type. Typically, it can tow between 5,000 and 5,600 pounds. Always check the owner’s manual for your vehicle’s specific towing limits.
What affects the towing capacity of a Ford Explorer?
Many things can change how much a Ford Explorer can tow. This includes the engine type, how the car is made, and if it has a towing package. How much the vehicle weighs and how it’s loaded are also key factors.
Does the Ford Explorer come with a tow hitch?
Some Ford Explorers come with a tow hitch, especially if they have the Class III Trailer Tow Package. To be sure, check with your dealer or the car’s specs.
What is the Ford Explorer Class III Trailer Tow Package?
The Class III Trailer Tow Package is an option that boosts the Ford Explorer’s towing ability. It often includes a tow hitch, wiring harness, and extra cooling. This supports the maximum towing capacity.
How can I find the towing specs for different Ford Explorer models?
You can find towing specs for different Ford Explorer models in the owner’s manual, on Ford’s official site, or in detailed guides. These will show how towing changes with different engines and trims.
What models years are discussed for Ford Explorer towing specs?
This guide discusses Ford Explorer towing specs for models from the years 2020 to 2025. It looks at any changes in towing abilities over time.
How does the Intelligent 4WD System assist in towing?
The Intelligent 4WD System helps with towing by adjusting how much power goes to each wheel. This gives better grip and stability when towing heavy things.
Are there any safety features to assist with towing in the Ford Explorer?
Yes, the Ford Explorer includes safety features for towing. One of them, Trailer Sway Control, helps keep the trailer steady by managing engine power and applying brakes when necessary.
How does the Ford Explorer compare to the Ford Expedition in terms of towing capacity?
The Ford Explorer is a good choice for towing, capable of up to 5,600 pounds. However, the larger Ford Expedition can tow more, often over 9,000 pounds. Which to choose depends on how much you need to tow and what you prefer in a vehicle.
