2020–2025 U625 (6th generation)
2020–2025 Ford Explorer Towing Capacity and Key Specifications
The 2020–2025 Ford Explorer tows up to 5,600 lbs when properly equipped. Fuel tank 19.2 gallons. Curb weight, fuel economy, ground clearance and other key numbers for the 2020–2025 Ford Explorer, by engine and drivetrain.
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Quick answer
The 2020–2025 Ford Explorer tows up to 5,600 lbs when properly equipped, and weighs about 4,345 lbs at the curb. Engine, axle ratio, cab and bed configuration all move the real number down, the door-jamb placard for your exact build governs.
2020–2025 Ford Explorer key specs
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Towing capacity (max) | 5,600 lbs |
| Fuel tank | 19.2 gallons |
| Fuel economy | 21 city / 28 hwy (2.3L RWD), 20/27 (2.3L AWD); 18/26 (3.0L ST RWD), ~18/24 AWD; 27/28 (Hybrid RWD), 23/26 (Hybrid AWD). Fuel tank: 19.2 gal (2.3L), 21.8 gal (3.0L/tow), 18.0 gal (hybrid). Towing: up to 5,300 lbs (2.3L w/ Class III pkg), 5,600 lbs (3.0L), 5,000 lbs (hybrid); 2025 models rated 5,000 lbs. |
| Curb weight | 4,345 lbs |
| Key fob battery | CR2450 (2020–2025 Intelligent Access fob; some manuals/fobs differ. Check the old cell when you open it) |
2020–2025 Ford Explorer engines
| Engine | Trims | Power | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.3L EcoBoost I4 | Base, XLT, Limited, Active, ST-Line, Timberline (2020–2024); Active, ST-Line, Platinum (2025) | 300 hp | Regular 87 octane (premium recommended for max power/towing) |
| 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (ST; Platinum/King Ranch availability varies) | ST (400 hp); Platinum 2020–2021 (365 hp), Platinum/King Ranch 3.0 (400 hp) 2022+; optional on 2025 Platinum | 400 hp | Premium 93 recommended for full output; runs on 87 |
| 3.3L V6 Hybrid (2020–2024) | Limited Hybrid (2020–2024), Platinum Hybrid (2021–2024); dropped for 2025 | 318 hp | Regular 87 octane |
Which Ford Explorer model years does this cover?
These specs specifications apply to every Ford Explorer built from 2020 through 2025 — the U625 (6th generation), mid-size 3-row suv (rwd-based cd6 platform, rwd/awd; 2025 refresh). Nothing in this specification changes between those model years. Pick your year for the engines it offered, what changed that year, and the problems recorded against it.
What changed during the 2020–2025 Ford Explorer
- 2020Generation launch on RWD-based CD6 platform; 10-speed automatic across the board; hybrid and 400-hp ST debut; rocky launch quality (see common problems)
- 2021King Ranch and off-road-flavored Timberline (265/65R18 ATs, full-size spare) added; Platinum keeps 365-hp 3.0L
- 2022ST-Line (ST looks, 2.3L) added; ST available RWD; 3.0L Platinum/King Ranch rated 400 hp
- 2024Carryover; final year for the 3.3L hybrid and King Ranch/Timberline/Limited trims
- 2025Major refresh: new fascias, new interior with 13.2-in SYNC 4A touchscreen, trims consolidated to Active/ST-Line/Platinum/ST; hybrid dropped; 2.3L switches to FL-2127 oil filter (~5.0 qt)
2020–2025 Ford Explorer specs: common questions
How much can a 2020–2025 Ford Explorer tow?
- Up to 5,600 lbs when properly equipped. That is a maximum for the best-configured version, engine, axle ratio, cab and bed configuration, and towing package all move the real number down, and the door-jamb placard plus the towing guide for your exact build is what governs.
How big is the fuel tank on a 2020–2025 Ford Explorer?
- 19.2 gallons.
What does a 2020–2025 Ford Explorer weigh?
- About 4,345 lbs at the curb, before passengers and cargo.
What gas mileage does a 2020–2025 Ford Explorer get?
- 21 city / 28 hwy (2.3L RWD), 20/27 (2.3L AWD); 18/26 (3.0L ST RWD), ~18/24 AWD; 27/28 (Hybrid RWD), 23/26 (Hybrid AWD). Fuel tank: 19.2 gal (2.3L), 21.8 gal (3.0L/tow), 18.0 gal (hybrid). Towing: up to 5,300 lbs (2.3L w/ Class III pkg), 5,600 lbs (3.0L), 5,000 lbs (hybrid); 2025 models rated 5,000 lbs. on the EPA cycle.
Sources
- 2020 Explorer Owner's Manual, Capacities and Specifications (fordservicecontent.com)
- CarCareTruth, 2020–2026 Explorer oil type & capacity (from OEM manuals)
- NHTSA recall 23V-675 / Ford 23S55, rear axle bolt replacement
- Ford recall 22S27 (NHTSA 22V-712), rear axle bolt software remedy
- NHTSA recall 23V-342 (Ford 23S23), 360-camera blue image
- Levittown Ford parts, FA-1947 / L1MZ-9601-A engine air filter (3.0L/3.3L)
- Ford Parts Giant, JX6Z-19N619-B cabin air filter, 2020 Explorer
- ExplorerST.org, factory H6 battery, fluid capacities (Mercon ULV, 75W-85 rear axle)
- fueleconomy.gov, 2021 Ford Explorer EPA ratings
- Goodyear / Mavis, 2021–2024 Explorer OE tire sizes by trim
- Car and Driver, 2020 Explorer specs (fuel tank, curb weight, towing)