Ford Explorer towing capacity by year

The Ford Explorer has tow data across 33 model years, from 1992 through 2024. The most recent 2024 Ford Explorer carries a maximum tow rating of 5,600 lb. The highest tow rating recorded for the nameplate was the 2003 model year at 7,300 lb. The nameplate has been in continuous production long enough to span the pre-SAE J2807 and post-J2807 eras of towing capacity testing.

Pick a year below to open the full Ford Explorer page for that model year. Each year page shows the maximum tow capacity, every trim the dataset covers separately, the engine and drivetrain combination, GVWR, curb weight, payload, and axle ratio.

Ford Explorer max tow rating, last 5 model years

Year-over-year max tow rating for the Ford Explorer, with the most recent year highlighted. Use the trend to spot generation changes, powertrain refreshes, and SAE J2807 re-tests that revised the published figure.

Recent Ford Explorer years (2020–2024)

Click any year for the full per-trim breakdown — engine, drivetrain, horsepower, torque, axle ratio, GVWR, curb weight, and payload.

Older Ford Explorer years (1992–2019)

Earlier model years for the Ford Explorer, going back to 1992. Pre-2015 ratings predate SAE J2807, so figures from those years may be measured under different assumptions than current ratings.

All figures sourced from manufacturer documentation. See our methodology for how the dataset is compiled.