2008 Ford Explorer 2WD towing capacity

The 2008 Ford Explorer 2WD is published in 4 configurations, with tow ratings ranging from 3,500 to 7,310 lb depending on cab, bed, drivetrain, and hitch class. The peak figure (7,310 lb) sits in mid-size SUV / pickup territory.

The table below lists every trim of the 2008 Ford Explorer 2WD with the engine, drivetrain, axle ratio, horsepower, torque, GVWR, curb weight, and payload that go with that trim's headline tow rating. Manufacturers often publish more than one tow figure per truck — a conventional bumper-hitch rating, a weight-distributing rating, and a gooseneck or fifth-wheel rating — so the highest number here is the maximum across all hitch classes the source carries for the trim.

Per-trim breakdown

How to interpret the headline tow figure

Tow ratings at this level are normally achievable with a conventional Class II or Class III receiver hitch. Always verify your vehicle has the manufacturer's tow package installed if you intend to tow at the upper end of the rating, and inspect the door-jamb sticker for the actual maximum permitted on your specific configuration.

How this year compares to 2006

The 2006 Ford Explorer 2WD carried a maximum tow rating of 7,300 lb. The 2008 model adds 10 lb on top of that — usually a sign the manufacturer added a tow package option, refreshed the powertrain, or revised hitch class certification. See the 2006 Ford Explorer 2WD page for the full per-trim breakdown of the prior year.

Other 2008 Ford models

The rest of Ford's 2008 lineup, ranked by maximum tow rating. Click through for the per-trim breakdown of any of these.

Notes

• Requires 3.55 axle ratio
• Requires 3.73 axle ratio
• Requires 3.55 axle ratio
• Requires 3.55 axle ratio

All figures sourced from manufacturer documentation. See our methodology for how the dataset is compiled. Always confirm against your vehicle's door-jamb sticker before towing.