Ford Explorer · 2012–2025
Ford Explorer Towing Capacity and Key Specifications
The specification is not the same across every year we cover, the table below shows exactly where it changes.
Last verified
Has the Ford Explorer specs specification changed by year?
| Model years | Max towing | Fuel tank | Curb weight | EPA mpg |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020–2025 | 5,600 lbs | 19.2 gal | 4,345 lbs | 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. |
| 2012–2019 | 5,000 lbs | 18.6 gal | 4,443 lbs | 17 city / 24 hwy (3.5L FWD); 16/22–23 (3.5L AWD); 20/27–28 (2.0L EcoBoost FWD); 19/27 FWD, 18/25 AWD (2.3L EcoBoost); 16/22 (3.5L EcoBoost Sport/Platinum). Towing: 5,000 lbs with Class III tow package (3.5L NA and EcoBoost); 2,000 lbs max with 2.0L EcoBoost. |
Each row links to the full specification for that generation, including trim-by-trim breakdowns and the part numbers. Where engines within a generation differ, that page separates them.
Full specifications by generation
The specs on a Ford Explorer is set by its generation, not its model year, so each generation has one page carrying the complete figures, part numbers and fitment notes for every year it covers.
Ford Explorer specs: common questions
How much can a 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 Ford Explorer?
- 19.2 gallons.
What does a Ford Explorer weigh?
- About 4,345 lbs at the curb, before passengers and cargo.
What gas mileage does a 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)
Find your exact Explorer
Jump to a model year for the engines it offered, what changed, and the problems documented against it: