How Much Can a Ford Explorer Tow?

November 26th, 2019 by
2022 Ford Explorer towing a trailer

How much can a Ford Explorer tow? The Ford Explorer has been generating a lot of buzz among industry experts and drivers alike for many years, and the impressive Ford Explorer towing capacity is just one of the reasons why. At Cornerstone Plymouth, you will find an excellent selection of used Ford vehicles for sale, with various model years and specs. Get all the details on the towing capacity for the Ford Explorer’s most recent model years below with Cornerstone Plymouth.



2023 Ford Explorer Towing Capacity

The towing capacity of the Ford Explorer is tied to its engines. For the 2023 model year, there are three engines to choose from, two of which are traditional gas engines and one a fuel-efficient hybrid. Take a look at the tow capacity of the Ford Explorer by engine below:

  • 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4: 5,300 pounds
  • 3.0L EcoBoost® V6: 5,600 pounds
  • 3.3L Hybrid V6: 5,000 pounds

Keep in mind, the 2023 Ford Explorer towing capacity can only reach its maximum weight when equipped with the available Class IV Trailer Tow Package. Experience even more performance and stability while towing with the standard Tow/Haul mode on the Explorer’s Terrain Management System.

2022 Ford Explorer Towing Capacity

The 2022 Ford Explorer can tow up to 5,600 pounds when properly equipped. Like previous model years in this sixth generation, the 2022 Ford Explorer is powered by a selection of engines including the 3.0L Ecoboost V6 and the 2.3L Ecoboost inline four-cylinder. The Class IV Trailer Tow Package allows the following Explorer configurations to reach the following towing capacity:

  • 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4: 5,300 pounds
  • 3.0L EcoBoost® V6: 5,600 pounds
  • 3.3L Hybrid V6: 5,000 pounds

2021 Ford Explorer Towing Capacity

The Ford Explorer’s towing capacity remains high for 2021 model-year vehicles, with up to 5,600 pounds of towing capacity. This capability is unlocked with the 3.0L Ecoboost V6 and the Class III Trailer Tow Package. An Explorer equipped with the 2.3L Ecoboost engine can provide 5,300 pounds of towing capacity when the same Class III Trailer Tow Package is installed.

2020 Ford Explorer Towing Capacity

With an all-new design and tried and true engines, the 2020 Ford Explorer expands on capabilities that were already impressive. Wondering “How much can a Ford Explorer tow?” The answer depends on the engine choice. 2.3L Ecoboost engines produce enough torque to tow up to 5,300 pounds when properly equipped, while the 3.0L Ecoboost V6 engines can tow up to 5,600 pounds when properly equipped. These are excellent capabilities for Minneapolis and Maple Grove drivers. If you’re looking for an Explorer locally, you can apply for financing online.

2019 Ford Explorer Towing Capacity

Powered by the highly capable 3.5L Ecoboost V6 engine, the 2019 Ford Explorer’s towing capacity can be up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. There are multiple trailering packages for this model, the Class II and Class III packages. These packages allow the 2019 Ford Explorer to safely carry the following weights:

  • FWD/4WD Class II: 3,000 pounds
  • FWD/4WD Class III: 5,000 pounds

2018 Ford Explorer Towing Capacity

The 2018 Ford Explorer also offers three different engine choices: 3.5L EcoBoost V6, 2.3L EcoBoost Four-Cylinder, and 3.5L Ti-VCT V6. See the towing capacity for the various engines and drivetrains here:

  • 2.3L EcoBoost® FWD: 2,000 pounds
  • 2.3L EcoBoost® 4WD: 3,000 pounds
  • 3.5L V6 FWD: 2,000 pounds
  • 3.5L V6 4WD: 5,000 pounds
  • 3.5L EcoBoost® 4WD: 5,000 pounds

There’s more than just engine power that allows the 2018 Ford Explorer to tow heavy loads with ease. The following features also provide assistance on the Minnetonka roads:

  • AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control: Stay in control at all times with this feature that selectively adjusts the brakes and engine power. It works even if you tow the maximum 5,000 pounds.
  • Class III Trailer Tow Package: This package consists of an engine oil cooler, wiring harness, and tow hitch.
  • Curve Control: When the Explorer senses that you’re heading into a curve too fast, it will compensate so you remain safely on the road.

2017 Ford Explorer Towing Capacity

Three different engines are offered for the 2017 Ford Explorer, so you are sure to find a configuration that meets your driving and towing needs. Let’s take a closer look at the 2017 Ford Explorer towing power by engine option.

  • A 290-hp 3.5L V6 engine comes standard on the base and XLT trim levels. With this engine, you can tow up to 5,000 pounds with front- or four-wheel drive.
  • The 280-hp 2.3L turbo EcoBoost four-cylinder engine is available for the base and XLT and is standard on the Limited. Expect a max towing capacity of 2,000 pounds in conjunction with front- and all-wheel drive.
  • A 365-hp 3.5L turbo EcoBoost V6 engine is standard on the Sport and Platinum, Once again, you can tow up to 5,000 pounds. Four-wheel drive is standard with this engine.

Experience the Explorer with Cornerstone Plymouth

When you are in search of a vehicle that doesn’t disappoint when it comes to towing, you can’t go wrong with the used Ford Explorer. Contact us today for more information or to set up a test drive in Plymouth. There are plenty of reasons to choose a used Ford.

Posted in Model Features