What To Know
- For those who need even more towing muscle, the Explorer can be equipped with the Heavy-Duty Tow Package, which increases the towing capacity to a whopping 7,500 pounds.
- The Ford Explorer offers a range of engine options, each providing a unique blend of power and efficiency for towing.
- Whether you’re towing a boat to the lake, a trailer full of gear to a campsite, or a heavy load for work, the Explorer delivers the power, control, and safety you need to get the job done.
The Ford Explorer is a versatile SUV that combines rugged capability with everyday practicality. With its powerful engines and robust build, it’s a natural choice for drivers who need a vehicle capable of towing heavy loads. But just how good is the Ford Explorer for towing? This comprehensive guide delves into the towing prowess of the Explorer, examining its specifications, features, and real-world performance to provide an in-depth answer to this question.
Towing Capacity: How Much Can the Ford Explorer Tow?
The Ford Explorer’s towing capacity varies depending on the model, engine, and trim level. However, even the base Explorer boasts an impressive towing capacity of up to 5,300 pounds. This makes it capable of handling a variety of towing tasks, including boats, trailers, and campers. For those who need even more towing muscle, the Explorer can be equipped with the Heavy-Duty Tow Package, which increases the towing capacity to a whopping 7,500 pounds.
Engine Options: Power and Performance for Towing
The Ford Explorer offers a range of engine options, each providing a unique blend of power and efficiency for towing. The base engine is a 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more power, the Explorer offers a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine that generates 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission that delivers smooth and responsive shifting, even under heavy loads.
Towing Features: Enhancing Control and Safety
The Ford Explorer comes equipped with an array of towing features designed to enhance control and safety while towing. The standard Trailer Sway Control system detects and corrects trailer sway, helping to keep the trailer in line and prevent dangerous oscillations. The Integrated Trailer Brake Controller allows drivers to easily apply the trailer brakes in proportion to the Explorer’s braking force, ensuring balanced and effective stopping. Additionally, the Explorer’s AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control helps maintain stability and traction, even on uneven or slippery surfaces.
Real-World Towing Performance: How Does the Explorer Handle the Load?
In real-world towing scenarios, the Ford Explorer delivers impressive performance. Its powerful engines provide ample torque to accelerate smoothly and maintain speed even with a heavy load in tow. The 10-speed automatic transmission shifts seamlessly, ensuring a comfortable and controlled towing experience. The Explorer’s robust chassis and suspension system provide a stable and composed ride, even on rough roads.
Fuel Efficiency: Balancing Power and Economy
While towing, fuel efficiency naturally takes a hit. However, the Ford Explorer offers a respectable balance between power and economy. The 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine returns an EPA-estimated 18 MPG city and 24 MPG highway when towing. The 3.0-liter EcoBoost engine provides slightly lower fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 17 MPG city and 22 MPG highway while towing.
Choosing the Right Explorer for Your Towing Needs
When selecting a Ford Explorer for towing, consider your specific needs and preferences. If you primarily tow lighter loads, the base Explorer with the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine may suffice. However, if you plan on towing heavier loads regularly, opt for the Explorer with the 3.0-liter EcoBoost engine and the Heavy-Duty Tow Package. Additionally, choose a trim level that offers the desired features and comfort amenities for your towing adventures.
Takeaways: The Ford Explorer – A Capable and Versatile Towing Machine
In conclusion, the Ford Explorer proves to be a highly capable and versatile towing vehicle. With its impressive towing capacity, robust engines, and advanced towing features, the Explorer can handle a wide range of towing tasks with confidence. Whether you’re towing a boat to the lake, a trailer full of gear to a campsite, or a heavy load for work, the Explorer delivers the power, control, and safety you need to get the job done. Its combination of capability, comfort, and efficiency makes it an ideal choice for drivers seeking a vehicle that can seamlessly transition from everyday driving to heavy-duty towing.
Top Questions Asked
Q: What is the maximum towing capacity of the Ford Explorer?
A: The maximum towing capacity of the Ford Explorer varies depending on the model, engine, and trim level. The base Explorer can tow up to 5,300 pounds, while the Explorer with the Heavy-Duty Tow Package can tow up to 7,500 pounds.
Q: Which engine is best for towing with the Ford Explorer?
A: The best engine for towing with the Ford Explorer is the 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine. It produces more horsepower and torque than the base 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, making it better suited for towing heavier loads.
Q: What towing features does the Ford Explorer offer?
A: The Ford Explorer offers a range of towing features, including Trailer Sway Control, Integrated Trailer Brake Controller, and AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control. These features enhance control and safety while towing.
Q: How does the Ford Explorer perform when towing?
A: The Ford Explorer delivers impressive towing performance, with its powerful engines providing ample torque for acceleration and maintaining speed. The 10-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, and the robust chassis and suspension system provide a stable and composed ride, even on rough roads.
Q: What is the fuel efficiency of the Ford Explorer when towing?
A: The fuel efficiency of the Ford Explorer when towing varies depending on the engine and load weight. The 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine returns an EPA-estimated 18 MPG city and 24 MPG highway when towing, while the 3.0-liter EcoBoost engine provides slightly lower fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 17 MPG city and 22 MPG highway while towing.
