2026 Ford Explorer towing capacity
Updated 2026-09-25 · Source: Ford 2026 RV & Trailer Towing Guide (v1), Explorer page 39
The 2026 Ford Explorer tows up to 5,000 lb when properly equipped. For this model year, every listed configuration is rated at 5,000 lb.Ford does not publish payload in this document; check the placard on the driver's door pillar.
- Max towing
- 5,000lb
- Max payload
- n/a
- GVWR
- n/a
- Curb weight
- n/a
Towing capacity by configuration
Bars are the manufacturer's rating for each published configuration; the darkest bar is the maximum.
| Configuration | Engine | Towing | Payload | GVWR | GCWR | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RWD | 2.3L EcoBoost I4 | 5,000 | n/a | n/a | 10,000 | 3.58 axle |
| 4WD | 2.3L EcoBoost I4 | 5,000 | n/a | n/a | 10,100 | 3.58 axle |
| Tremor · 4WD | 2.3L EcoBoost I4 | 5,000 | n/a | n/a | 10,100 | 3.58 axle; Tremor model only |
| Tremor · 4WD | 3.0L EcoBoost V6 | 5,000 | n/a | n/a | 10,800 | 3.58 axle; Tremor model only |
| ST · RWD | 3.0L EcoBoost V6 | 5,000 | n/a | n/a | 10,800 | 3.58 axle; ST model only |
| ST · 4WD | 3.0L EcoBoost V6 | 5,000 | n/a | n/a | 10,800 | 3.58 axle; ST model only |
Check a trailer against this Explorer
Not sure which row is yours? Decode your VIN to narrow it by cab, drivetrain and engine.
What changed from 2025
The 2026 maximum is 5,000 lb, the same as in 2025. Ford lists its 2026 configurations differently from 2025, so the two tables are not compared row by row. 2025 Ford Explorer towing capacity.
How to read these numbers
Towing capacity assumes a lightly loaded truck. Passengers, cargo and the trailer's tongue weight all count against payload, which usually runs out first.
Full explanations: GVWR vs GCWR vs payload and how tongue weight eats payload.
Source: Ford 2026 RV & Trailer Towing Guide (v1), Explorer page 39. Confirm your vehicle's ratings on the certification label in the driver's door jamb.
Frequently asked questions
How much can a 2026 Ford Explorer tow?
Up to 5,000 lb when properly equipped. The lowest-rated configuration listed (2.3L EcoBoost I4, RWD) is rated at 5,000 lb, and the highest (2.3L EcoBoost I4, RWD) at 5,000 lb.
What is the payload capacity of a 2026 Ford Explorer?
Ford does not publish payload in the document we used; the figure for your exact truck is on the tire and loading placard on the driver's door pillar. Payload includes passengers, cargo and the trailer's tongue weight, so it is usually the limit you reach first. Ford does not publish a GVWR for this model, so use the certification label in the driver's door jamb.
Does the 2026 Ford Explorer need a tow package to reach its maximum rating?
Every 2026 Explorer engine is rated at 5,000 lb with the Class III Trailer Tow Package, which Ford lists as standard. Ford rates the hitch receiver for 5,000 lb and 500 lb tongue weight, and publishes no payload or GVWR in its towing guide. Police Interceptor Utility rows in the same table are not included. Configurations without the package carry a lower rating; see the note column in the table above.
Can a 2026 Ford Explorer tow a travel trailer?
A configuration rated at 5,000 lb can handle a trailer with a loaded weight of roughly 4,000 lb while keeping a 20% safety margin, provided passengers, cargo and tongue weight stay within the payload on your door-pillar placard. Run your exact numbers in the towing calculator.