When deciding on a car that can fit for family use, has features for towing, and is from a reputable manufacturing company, the Ford Explorer leads the list. No matter which type of trailer you tow – a boat, a trailer, or a camper – it is crucial to know the Ford Explorer’s towing capacity. Here is all you need to understand about the Ford Explorer’s towing capabilities, which are explained in detail in this guide.
Important note: The Ford Explorer ST has a towing capacity of 5,600 pounds, while the Ford Explorer Limited has a towing capacity of 5,300 pounds.
The Ford Explorer has been a giant in the SUV market for so many years of the existence of the automobile. It is well regarded for being able to meet the needs of families, the action-seekers, and tow-preneurs. What makes the SUV very competitive with the options is that it boasts a fantastic towing capacity, all the more in the latest iterations.
What is Towing Capacity?
Now, let’s first break down what towing capacity stands in general terms before diving into the details of the Ford Explorer. Towing capacity can be defined as the maximum number of kilos a vehicle can transport or, in other words, the maximum weight of the fully equipped trailer. Just to make sure you do not overload your vehicle, hence causing some trouble, it is important to know your towing capacity.
Why Towing Capacity Matters
DI is much more than towing capacity; it is the safety, performance, and efficiency of the equipment. If towing goes beyond the rated limit for your vehicular system, the engine, brake, and transmission are at the receiving end. More importantly, it can cause accidents on the road as a protected function that can be triggered by anyone nearby.
Overview of Ford Explorer Models
Here are some of the Ford Explorer models and the capacity they provide in terms of towing. Now, to clarify the main models and what they contribute, here they are.
Ford Explorer Base Model
A 2 is the base model; however, the mechanicals remain identical to the hit Civic Sedan Tourer that Honda now sells in Europe. Incorporates the 3L EcoBoost engine and offers reasonable pulling capacity for small to medium weight.
Ford Explorer XLT
The XLT will integrate more comfort and high technology components while it will not lose its towing capacity. It is a perfect choice for people who require functions beyond what the base model offers.
Ford Explorer Limited
While the Limited model also includes such comfortable amenities as leather seats and power windows, it has a greater towing capability due to the option of a 3. 0L EcoBoost V6 engine.
Ford Explorer ST
For performance, the ST model features a 3. A combination of the 0L EcoBoost V6 engine that provides speed and the ability to tow a trailer.
Ford Explorer Platinum
The most luxurious, powerful, and with the highest towing ability is the Platinum model, at the top of the series.
Engine Options and the Effect on Towing
It should come as no surprise that the engine under the hood has much to do with how much towing capacity your Ford Explorer will have. This model comes in several types of engines, and each applies its specific towing power to the explorers that Ford created.
2. 3L EcoBoost Engine
This is a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that provides a great measure of power alongside decent fuel economy and is thus suitable when one has to tow relatively light loads.
3. 0L EcoBoost V6 Engine
For those who require even more power, the 3. The 0L EcoBoost V6 engine capability is extended up to 400 horsepower, and the Explorer’s towing ability is proficiently improved.
Hybrid Engine
The hybrid engine gives an environmentally friendly choice without much of a hit to the towing power. It is perfect for those who wish to go green to have the least carbon footprint.
Towing Capacity by Model and Engine
Time to take the figures. Below is the table showing the towing capacity of the Ford Explorer by the engine of the model.
Base Model Towing Capacity
With the 2. With a new power, 3L EcoBoost engine, the base model can tow up to 5,300 pounds when properly equipped.
XLT Towing Capacity
The XLT model comes with up to 5,300 pounds of towing capacity, with other packages added for comfort and convenience.
Limited Towing Capacity
With the available 3. It is powered by the 0L EcoBoost V6 engine, and the Limited model is only capable of towing as much as 5,600 pounds, which is ideal for heavier cargo.
ST Towing Capacity
The ST model boasts high performance and a towing capacity of up to 5,600 pounds due to the available power plant.
Platinum Towing Capacity
At the top of it is the Platinum model, which includes the above features and adds to a towing capacity of up to 5,600 pounds.
How Much Can You Tow with a Ford Explorer?
As for the towing capacity, it is between 5,300 and 5,600 lbs, depending on the specific model and engine type. This makes it ideal for towing different loads, including trailers, mid-sized boats, and any other kind of load in between.
Conclusion
Ford Explorer is a good SUV vehicle with a number of models that have excellent towing ability. If you are a casual tamer out for a few hours on a Saturday or someone who tames commercially on a daily basis, there is a configuration to suit you in the Explorer. It is possible to tow in a Ford Explorer by getting the right engine for your car, the towing package, and safety provisions in place.
FAQs
What is the maximum towing capacity of a Ford Explorer?
The maximum towing capacity of a Ford Explorer is 5,600 pounds when properly equipped with the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine and the necessary towing package.
Does the Ford Explorer come with a towing package?
Yes, Ford offers towing packages for the Explorer, including the Class III Trailer Tow Package and the Heavy-Duty Towing Package.
Can a Ford Explorer tow a boat?
Yes, the Ford Explorer can tow a boat, depending on the size and weight of the boat. With a towing capacity of up to 5,600 pounds, it can handle many mid-sized boats.
How does towing affect the fuel economy of a Ford Explorer?
Towing will decrease the fuel efficiency of the Ford Explorer, but the impact varies based on the weight of the load and driving conditions. The EcoBoost engines help to mitigate fuel consumption while towing.
How to Improve Your Towing Capacity?
Upgrade your vehicle’s suspension, install a weight distribution hitch, use the right tires, add a transmission cooler, and ensure proper engine maintenance.
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