The 2024 Ford Explorer is a popular SUV. It offers great features and performance. One key feature is its towing capacity. In this article, we will explore the towing capacity of the 2024 Ford Explorer. We will also discuss its engines, features, and how it compares to other SUVs.

What is Towing Capacity?
Towing capacity is the maximum weight a vehicle can pull. It is important for those who need to tow trailers, boats, or other heavy loads. Knowing the towing capacity helps you choose the right vehicle for your needs.
2024 Ford Explorer Overview
The 2024 Ford Explorer is a versatile SUV. It offers space for up to seven passengers. It has a comfortable interior and modern technology. The design is sleek and stylish. This makes it a great choice for families and adventure seekers.
Engine Options
The 2024 Ford Explorer comes with several engine options. Each engine offers different power levels. Here are the available engines:
- 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 Engine: This engine produces 300 horsepower. It delivers great fuel efficiency.
- 3.0L EcoBoost V6 Engine: This powerful engine generates 400 horsepower. It is perfect for towing heavy loads.
- 3.3L Hybrid V6 Engine: This hybrid engine offers 318 horsepower. It combines power and fuel efficiency.
Towing Capacity of the 2024 Ford Explorer
The towing capacity of the 2024 Ford Explorer varies by engine type. Here is a breakdown of the towing capacity for each engine:
Engine Type | Towing Capacity (lbs) |
---|---|
2.3L EcoBoost I-4 | 5,300 lbs |
3.0L EcoBoost V6 | 5,600 lbs |
3.3L Hybrid V6 | 5,000 lbs |
Understanding the Class IV Trailer Tow Package
If you’re curious about maximizing your Ford Explorer‘s towing prowess, the Class IV Trailer Tow Package is the key feature you need. Here’s a breakdown of what it offers:
- Enhanced Towing Capacity: This essential package boosts the towing capability of the Explorer, particularly when paired with the powerful 2.3L EcoBoost® engine. It’s a standard inclusion with the 3.0L EcoBoost® engine, underscoring its importance for handling substantial towing needs.
- Optimized Performance: By integrating advanced towing technologies and reinforced components, the package ensures that you have the power and stability required for heavy-duty towing tasks.
- Complete Equipment: With this package, you receive all the necessary equipment to make towing safe and efficient, setting you up for success whether you’re towing a trailer or a boat.
The Class IV Trailer Tow Package is designed to provide you with confidence and security when taking on towing challenges, making it an indispensable feature for those who need to transport heavy loads.
What is Included in the Class IV Trailer Tow Package for the Ford Explorer, and How Does it Maximize Towing Capacity?
The Class IV Trailer Tow Package is designed to enhance the Ford Explorer‘s towing capabilities significantly. This package comes with several key features that work together to ensure you are ready for the most demanding towing jobs.
- Advanced Towing Hardware: The package includes heavy-duty components such as a high-strength hitch receiver, which provides robust support and stability for larger trailers and equipment.
- Upgraded Engine Options: The package is compatible with the powerful 2.3L EcoBoost® engine and comes standard with the 3.0L EcoBoost® engine. These engines are engineered to deliver exceptional power and torque, critical for handling heavy loads confidently.
- Enhanced Cooling Systems: To maintain optimal performance during towing, the package features improved cooling systems. These systems ensure that both the engine and transmission remain at optimal temperature, even under significant stress.
- Integrated Wiring: With built-in trailer wiring connections, the package makes it easy to connect your trailer lights and brakes, providing a seamless towing experience.
These features collectively enable the Ford Explorer to achieve its maximum towing potential, making it an excellent choice for those who require reliable, heavy-duty towing performance.
How To Choose The Right Engine For Towing
When choosing an engine, consider your needs. If you plan to tow heavy trailers, the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 is best. It has the highest towing capacity. For lighter loads, the 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 is a great option. The hybrid engine is perfect for those who want fuel efficiency.
Key Features That Enhance Towing
The 2024 Ford Explorer has several features that help with towing. These features make towing easier and safer:
- Tow/Haul Mode: This mode optimizes the transmission for towing. It helps maintain power and control.
- Trailer Sway Control: This feature keeps trailers stable while driving. It helps prevent swaying.
- Integrated Trailer Brake Controller: This system allows you to control trailer brakes. It ensures safer stopping.
- Rear View Camera: The camera helps you see behind the vehicle. It makes hitching trailers easier.
To further enhance towing performance and safety, the Ford Explorer is equipped with additional advanced features:
- Sidewind Stabilization: This feature maintains control in adverse wind conditions, providing a steady towing experience by countering the effects of strong sidewinds.
- Terrain Management System™: With up to seven selectable drive modes—such as Normal, Trail, Deep Snow/Sand (4WD only), Slippery, Sport, Tow/Haul, and Eco Mode—this system helps the Explorer adapt effortlessly to various terrains, making every towing journey smooth and manageable.
- Available SelectShift® Capability with Paddle Shifters: For those who prefer more control, this feature allows manual shifting through easily accessible paddle shifters, transforming the automatic transmission into an on-demand manual one for enhanced control and precision.
- Class IV Trailer Tow Package: Available with the 2.3L EcoBoost® engine and standard with the 3.0L EcoBoost® engine, this package enhances the Explorer’s towing capacity, ensuring it’s ready for heavy-duty tasks.
Each of these features is thoughtfully designed to ensure that your towing experience is not only powerful but also secure, allowing you to tackle any road with confidence.
How Does the Trailer Sway Control Work with AdvanceTrac® with RSC®?
Trailer Sway Control is an innovative feature that actively enhances towing safety. It works seamlessly with the AdvanceTrac® with RSC® (Roll Stability Control™) system to ensure a smoother, more controlled towing experience. Here’s how it functions:
- Selective Braking: When the trailer begins to sway, the system detects the instability. It applies brakes selectively to individual wheels to counteract the sway and bring the trailer back in line.
- Engine Power Adjustments: In addition to braking, the system intelligently adjusts engine power. This coordinated response helps stabilize both the vehicle and the trailer.
- Maintaining Control and Stability: By combining these corrective actions, the system works to maintain control, reducing the risk of trailer sway that can lead to unsafe driving conditions.
This integrated approach ensures that drivers have enhanced stability and command, ultimately providing a safer towing experience.
How the Sidewind Stabilization Feature Enhances Your Towing Experience
The Sidewind Stabilization feature significantly improves your towing experience by actively maintaining vehicle stability in challenging wind conditions.
- Enhanced Control: As you navigate highways or winding roads, sudden gusts of wind can cause dangerous swaying. This feature automatically adjusts to counteract these winds, ensuring the vehicle remains steady.
- Safety Assurance: With increased control, there’s a reduced risk of accidents caused by trailers veering off course. This adds an extra layer of safety for both the driver and other road users.
- Stress-Free Towing: By minimizing sway, you can enjoy a smoother and more comfortable drive, even in adverse weather.
This enables a worry-free journey, allowing you to focus on the road ahead rather than battling the elements.
What Does the SelectShift® Capability with Paddle Shifters Do in the Ford Explorer?
The SelectShift® capability with paddle shifters in the Ford Explorer serves an important function by providing drivers with enhanced control over their vehicle’s transmission. Here’s how it works:
- Manual Control Over Automatic Transmission: It allows the driver to manually shift gears while still using an automatic transmission. This feature essentially turns the automatic system into an on-demand manual, offering the best of both worlds.
- Paddle Shifters for Convenience: Strategically positioned behind the steering wheel, these paddle shifters let you change gears quickly without having to take your hands off the wheel. This placement increases not just convenience, but safety as well.
- Enhanced Driving Experience: By giving you the power to decide when to shift gears, SelectShift® adds a more engaging and responsive driving experience, especially useful in situations where precision is key, like during overtaking or navigating winding roads.
In summary, the SelectShift® capability with paddle shifters transforms the driving experience by offering manual-like control within the comfort of an automatic setting, enhancing both performance and engagement.
The Ford Explorer’s Terrain Management System™ offers a versatile driving experience with its range of selectable drive modes. Here’s what you can expect:
- Normal Mode: Ideal for everyday driving, providing a balanced performance.
- Trail Mode: Designed to tackle off-road conditions with ease.
- Deep Snow/Sand Mode: (4WD only) Perfect for challenging, loose surfaces like snow or sand.
- Slippery Mode: Enhances stability and control on wet or icy roads.
- Sport Mode: Delivers a more dynamic driving experience with enhanced throttle response.
- Tow/Haul Mode: Optimizes power and torque for towing and hauling tasks.
- Eco Mode: Maximizes fuel efficiency for economical driving.
Everyone can find the perfect setting to navigate a wide variety of terrains with confidence.
Comparing the 2024 Ford Explorer to Other SUVs
When looking at towing capacity, it’s important to compare. Here’s how the 2024 Ford Explorer stacks up against competitors:
SUV Model | Towing Capacity (lbs) |
---|---|
2024 Ford Explorer | 5,600 lbs |
2024 Chevrolet Traverse | 5,000 lbs |
2024 Toyota Highlander | 5,000 lbs |
2024 Hyundai Palisade | 5,000 lbs |
The Ford Explorer has a higher towing capacity than many rivals. This makes it a great choice for those who need to tow.

Safety Considerations While Towing
Towing requires special attention to safety. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Always check your trailer’s weight. Make sure it is within the towing capacity.
- Use safety chains when towing. They provide extra security.
- Regularly inspect your trailer brakes and lights. Ensure they are functioning properly.
- Practice driving with the trailer. Get used to how it feels on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Towing Capacity Of The 2024 Ford Explorer?
The 2024 Ford Explorer can tow up to 5,600 pounds when properly equipped.
Can The 2024 Explorer Tow A Camper?
Yes, the 2024 Explorer is capable of towing lightweight campers and trailers within its towing capacity limits.
What Engines Affect The Towing Capacity?
The 2. 3L EcoBoost and 3. 0L EcoBoost engines influence the Explorer’s towing capabilities significantly.
Is A Tow Package Necessary For Towing?
A tow package enhances towing performance and includes essential features like a hitch and wiring harness.
Conclusion
The 2024 Ford Explorer is a strong contender in the SUV market. Its towing capacity is impressive. With options ranging up to 5,600 lbs, it meets many needs. The various engine choices give you flexibility. Plus, the safety features enhance towing experiences. If you need an SUV that can tow, the Explorer is a great option.
Whether for family trips or outdoor adventures, the 2024 Ford Explorer shines. Its combination of power, safety, and comfort makes it a top choice. Explore your options today and see how the Explorer fits your towing needs!