Ford Explorer Towing Capacity
The Ford Explorer has been a reliable choice for years, especially if you’re looking for a vehicle that offers both comfort and towing capability. Whether you’re towing a small boat, trailer, or a few dirt bikes, the Ford Explorer can handle a surprising amount. In this post, I’ll break down the Ford Explorer towing capacity across various models, from early versions to the latest models, so you can find the right one for your needs.
Ford Explorer Towing Capacity
Towing capacity is a major factor if you plan on hauling anything with your vehicle. For the Ford Explorer, towing capacity varies depending on the model year, engine type, and drivetrain. Older models often have lower capacities compared to the latest models with upgraded engines and more advanced technology.
Ford Explorer Towing Capacity by Model Year
Below, I’ve compiled a list to help you see how the Ford Explorer towing capacity has evolved over time, so you can easily compare different models and pick the one that fits your towing needs.
1. 2010-2015 Ford Explorer Towing Capacity
In this era, the Ford Explorer began its transition from a truck-based SUV to a more car-like unibody design. Towing capacity, however, remained respectable for midsize SUVs.
- 2010 Ford Explorer: 3,500 lbs with the V6 engine
- 2011 Ford Explorer: 5,000 lbs (available with the 3.5L V6 engine)
- 2012 Ford Explorer: 5,000 lbs (3.5L V6 engine)
- 2013 Ford Explorer: 5,000 lbs (3.5L V6 engine)
- 2014 Ford Explorer: 5,000 lbs (3.5L V6 engine)
- 2015 Ford Explorer: 5,000 lbs (3.5L V6 engine)
Key Takeaway: In the early 2010s, Ford Explorer models with the 3.5L V6 engine were capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds, making them suitable for moderate towing tasks like smaller boats or trailers.
2. 2016-2019 Ford Explorer Towing Capacity
With an update in 2016, the Ford Explorer gained new engine options, including a 2.3L EcoBoost I-4. Towing capacities varied slightly depending on the chosen engine.
- 2016 Ford Explorer:
- 2.3L EcoBoost I-4: 3,000 lbs
- 3.5L V6: 5,000 lbs
- 2017 Ford Explorer:
- 2.3L EcoBoost I-4: 3,000 lbs
- 3.5L V6: 5,000 lbs
- 2018 Ford Explorer:
- 2.3L EcoBoost I-4: 3,000 lbs
- 3.5L V6: 5,000 lbs
- 2019 Ford Explorer:
- 2.3L EcoBoost I-4: 3,000 lbs
- 3.5L V6: 5,000 lbs
Key Takeaway: From 2016 to 2019, Ford Explorers with the 3.5L V6 engine maintained a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs, while those with the 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 engine were limited to 3,000 lbs.
3. 2020 Ford Explorer Towing Capacity
With the introduction of the sixth generation in 2020, the Ford Explorer received a complete redesign, along with new engine choices and improved towing capabilities.
- 2020 Ford Explorer:
- 2.3L EcoBoost I-4: 5,300 lbs
- 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (Platinum trim): 5,600 lbs
- 3.3L Hybrid V6: 5,000 lbs
Key Takeaway: The 2020 Ford Explorer brought increased towing capacities, especially with the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine, which could tow up to 5,600 pounds.
4. 2021-2023 Ford Explorer Towing Capacity
In these years, the Ford Explorer maintained its towing power, with continued options for improved towing across various trims.
- 2021-2023 Ford Explorer:
- 2.3L EcoBoost I-4: 5,300 lbs
- 3.0L EcoBoost V6: 5,600 lbs (available on Platinum and ST trims)
- 3.3L Hybrid V6: 5,000 lbs
Key Takeaway: In recent years, the Ford Explorer offers impressive towing capacity, with the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine allowing for 5,600 pounds of towing, making it one of the best choices for those needing a midsize SUV with high towing ability.
Comparison of Ford Explorer Towing Capacity
To make it easier to compare, here’s a table summarizing the Ford Explorer towing capacities across different model years and engines:
| Model Year | Engine | Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| 2010-2015 | 3.5L V6 | 5,000 lbs |
| 2016-2019 | 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 | 3,000 lbs |
| 2016-2019 | 3.5L V6 | 5,000 lbs |
| 2020 | 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 | 5,300 lbs |
| 2020 | 3.0L EcoBoost V6 | 5,600 lbs |
| 2020 | 3.3L Hybrid V6 | 5,000 lbs |
| 2021-2023 | 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 | 5,300 lbs |
| 2021-2023 | 3.0L EcoBoost V6 | 5,600 lbs |
| 2021-2023 | 3.3L Hybrid V6 | 5,000 lbs |
Best Towing Capacity
If you’re looking for the Ford Explorer with the best towing capacity, the models from 2020 onwards with the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine are your top choice. They can tow up to 5,600 pounds, making them ideal for hauling larger loads like bigger trailers, boats, or heavy equipment.
Ideal for Eco-Conscious Drivers: 2020-2023 Hybrid Models
The 3.3L Hybrid V6 models offer a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, which is impressive for a hybrid SUV. This is a great option for eco-conscious drivers who still need towing power without sacrificing fuel economy.
Maximize Ford Explorer Towing Capacity
- Use a Proper Towing Package: Ensure your Explorer is equipped with the towing package, which includes necessary components like a trailer hitch, wiring, and sometimes additional cooling for the engine and transmission.
- Follow Weight Limits: Always respect the towing capacity of your specific model to avoid damage to the vehicle or safety issues.
- Balance the Load: For safe towing, make sure the load is balanced properly on the trailer. An unbalanced load can lead to swaying, making it harder to control the vehicle.
- Consider Upgrading Tires and Suspension: If you’re frequently towing heavy loads, upgrading tires or adding suspension support can improve your towing experience.
Is the Ford Explorer Good for Towing?
So, is the Ford Explorer good for towing? I believe absolutely. With a variety of engines and towing capacities across model years, there’s likely an Explorer that fits your needs. Whether you choose a classic V6, the efficient EcoBoost, or even a hybrid model, the Ford Explorer towing capacity provides plenty of options for small to mid-sized towing needs.
