If you’re shopping around for the ideal all-round truck to lug all your toys for play, or trailers for work, you should consider the new Explorer. “Built Ford Tough” is more than just a clever motto when it comes to performance and capability. We’re going to fill you in on everything to know about towing with the 2020 Explorer in this handy guide.
Engine Capacity
The 2020 Ford Explorer is built for adventure, and most of those experiences require towing something, from a camper to a trailer loaded with ATVs. With three engine options to choose from, it’s ready whenever the open road calls you.
Choose from three burly engines under the hood. There’s the stock 3.5-liter V-6 that produces 290 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque. The mid-range engine is capable and efficient. It’s a 2.3-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost that’s good for 280 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque.
If you plan to do any mid-range towing, opt for the crown jewel of the lineup. It’s a twin-turbocharged V-6 EcoBoost. This 3.5-liter engine generates 365 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque and comes standard on the Sport and Platinum models. It delivers almost instant throttle response, and like all engines in the lineup, it’s mated to a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission.
Available Towing Packages
Ford designed a pair of available towing packages for the 2020 Explorer. If you want a bit of extra power and performance, add the Class II trailer tow package that equips your SUV with a frame-mounted hitch and wiring harness. With this setup and the stock 2.3-liter engine, even the base trim can tow up to 3,000 pounds.
If you’ve got toys that weigh up to 5,000 pounds, get your Explorer outfitted with the Class III trailer tow package. Trims with the 3.5-liter V-6, including the Sport and the Platinum, get the features of the Class II package, plus four-pin and seven-pin trailer connectors, and an engine oil cooler.
Towing Safety Features
Ford drivers demand advanced safety features when towing and this automaker answered the call with the 2020 Explorer. Get your SUV with the advanced technology of the intelligent 4WD system with terrain management. When you’re hauling the boat down to the lake, you might encounter mud or sand. This system helps you tackle that tough terrain by dialing in the best setting.
Adventurers will appreciate Ford’s AdvanceTrac. This system uses sensors to monitor the vehicle and will help the driver retain control in the event of wheel-slip, under-steering, or over-steering which commonly occur when pulling a trailer.
Ample Interior Room
If you find yourself with more payload than trailer capacity, don’t fret. Explorer touts a notable payload capacity of up to 1,717 pounds. Those numbers are some of the best in the segment. It also offers a maximum of 81.7 cubic feet with both rows of seats folded down.
If you’re thinking about buying a tow vehicle, consider the 2020 Explorer. Discover its performance and features at a Ford showroom near you.
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