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◆ OEM Tow Rating

2025 Ford Explorer Towing Capacity

Factory towing capacity, payload, GCWR, and hitch class for the 2025 Ford Explorer — plus the gear this setup calls for.

2025 Ford Explorer — All Explorer engine/drivetrain combinations listed (2.3L EcoBoost I4 and 3.0L EcoBoost V6 and 3.0L Ti-VCT V6 and 3.3L HEV V6, RWD and 4WD), but only conventional hitch; no gooseneck/5th-wheel option exists for Explorer

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⚠ Pending verification

Figures were extracted from the source below and are pending confirmation against the OEM towing guide.

Source: OEM towing guide — 2025 Ford RV & Trailer Towing Guide · retrieved 2026-07-02

Max Towing Capacity

5,000

lbs / 2,250 kg

Payload

—

Hitch Class

Class III

GCWR

10,800 lbs

Engine Variants

3 variants

Trim Notes

Maximum 5,000 lbs is achieved across multiple configurations: 2.3L EcoBoost I4 (3.58 axle, RWD or 4WD, GCWR 10,000/10,100), 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (3.31 axle 4x2 GCWR 10,800, or 3.58 axle 4x2/4WD GCWR 10,800), and 3.3L HEV V6 (3.73 axle 4WD GCWR 10,500). All configurations listed show 5,000 lbs max loaded trailer weight. Requires Standard Trailer Tow Package (dealer-installed: 7-Wire Harness & 4-/7-Pin Connector, Class III Hitch Receiver, Tow/Haul Mode, Trailer Sway Control, Lane Keeping Alert).

⚠ Important

Peak 5,000 lb: 2.3L EcoBoost I4 with 3.58 axle ratio, RWD or 4WD, GCWR 10,000/10,100 lbs; OR 3.0L EcoBoost V6 with 3.31 or 3.58 axle ratio, RWD or 4WD, GCWR 10,800 lbs; OR 3.3L HEV V6 with 3.73 axle ratio, 4WD, GCWR 10,500 lbs — all configurations cap at 5,000 lbs maximum loaded trailer weight (conventional ball hitch).

◆ Gear you may need

🔩Trailer HitchCURT & Reese, sized to your class→🛑Brake ControllerRequired for trailers over 3,000 lbs→🔌Trailer Wiring HarnessVehicle-specific plug-and-play→⚙️Ball Mount & Hitch BallMatched to your receiver→🪞Tow MirrorsExtended view for wide loads→

Always confirm against your door-jamb sticker & OEM towing guide before hauling. Ratings vary by exact configuration.

Different configuration? Look it up

The 5,000 lbs figure above is the properly-equipped maximum for this model year. For a specific trim, engine, or drivetrain, run your exact setup through the live tool:

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Prose overview

The 2025 Ford Explorer carries a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs when properly equipped, paired with a Class III hitch. As with every truck and SUV, the rating swings by engine, drivetrain, cab and bed configuration, and rear axle ratio — so two 2025 Ford Explorers on the same lot can be rated thousands of pounds apart. Match your trailer to the lowestrelevant limit (towing capacity, payload, GCWR, and hitch rating), and verify against the sticker inside the driver's-side door jamb.

Related tow ratings

2024 Ford Explorer →2022 Ford Explorer →2023 Ford Explorer →2024 Ford F-150 →2023 Ford F-150 →2022 Ford F-150 →

2025 Ford Explorer towing FAQ

What is the maximum towing capacity of a 2025 Ford Explorer?

A properly equipped 2025 Ford Explorer is rated to tow up to 5,000 lbs. This maximum applies only to specific engine, axle, and tow-package combinations — most trims tow less.

What hitch class does the 2025 Ford Explorer need?

Based on its rated capacity, the 2025 Ford Explorer typically pairs with a Class III hitch. Always match the hitch to your loaded trailer weight and never exceed the vehicle's rated capacity.

Do I need a brake controller to tow with a 2025 Ford Explorer?

Most states require trailer brakes — and a brake controller — for trailers over 3,000 lbs loaded. A brake controller syncs the trailer's brakes with the vehicle's for safe, controlled stops.

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