Does the 2024 Ford Explorer have a trailer hitch?

When choosing a vehicle that balances family comfort with rugged functionality, the 2024 Ford Explorer emerges as a top contender. Prospective buyers, particularly those with a penchant for adventure or practical towing needs, often wonder if the 2024 Ford Explorer comes equipped with a trailer hitch. The answer is not only essential for those planning to haul trailers, boats, or campers but also speaks volumes about the versatility of this renowned SUV.

In this article, our experts at Brewster Ford take a closer look at the new Ford Explorer. We explore its impressive towing capacity, engine performance, and whether it has any trailer hitch features. We also explore any notable towing enhancements, its safety and convenience features for towing, and how this midsize crossover compares to rivals on the market.

Trailer Hitch Features

The Explorer doesn’t come with factory-installed towing equipment when you buy it. However, you can add this with the Class IV Trailer Tow Package when taking advantage of Brewster Ford’s Ford Explorer vehicle specials. This comes at an additional cost but allows you to tow boats, trailers, and campers easily.

Towing Capacity and Engine Performance

Depending on the model, the 2024 Ford Explorer can tow anywhere from 5,300 to 5,600 pounds when properly equipped with Ford’s available Class IV Trailer Tow Package. The Timberline, ST-Line, and Limited trims can tow up to 5,300 pounds when equipped with the package. With this capacity, there’s not much the Explorer can’t handle, whether you need to tow a boat, trailer, or camper. When properly equipped, the ST, Platinum, and King Ranch models can tow up to 5,600 pounds.

The new Explorer comes with a choice of two powerful engines. A standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost I-4 engine comes on the base, XLT, ST-Line, Timberline, and Limited models. It produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. A 3.0-liter EcoBoost V-6 with Auto Start-Stop technology comes with the ST, King Ranch, and Platinum models. It produces up to 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque through turbocharging and direct injection. All models have a 10-speed automatic transmission.

Additional Towing Features

The 2024 Ford Explorer offers a range of technology that simplifies your towing experience. Take advantage of the Terrain Management System that comes standard with all Ford Explorers. This feature boasts up to seven different driving modes, such as a particularly helpful Tow/Haul mode that helps navigate tough terrain. Activating Tow mode adjusts the transmission points to keep the vehicle in a higher power range. Other driving modes include Normal, Trail, Deep Snow/Sand for four-wheel drive, Slippery, Sport, and Eco. This helps you adjust your traction and suspension based on your driving conditions.

Enjoy peace of mind with AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control to control the sway of the trailer due to wind, overtaking trucks, or rapid braking. This feature automatically applies the brakes or adjusts the engine’s power to keep you in control while driving. Rear parking sensors and rearview cameras make backing up with a trailer a breeze. Certain Explorers, such as the Timberline trim, also come with off-road features, including steel underbody skid plates and up to 8.66 inches of ground clearance for easy maneuvering on and off the road.

Safety and Convenience for Towing

A host of safety features make driving the Ford Explorer enjoyable and convenient. The Blind Spot Information System helps to detect any vehicles in your blind spot and alerts you. The Cross-Traffic Alert can detect traffic behind you when you’re reversing, while the Lane-Keeping System alerts you if you’re starting to drift between lanes. Other handy features include Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, which manages your pace on longer journeys, and Speed Sign Recognition, which can reduce your speed automatically if the cars ahead have slowed down or stopped.

Inside, the 2024 Ford Explorer is a practical and family-friendly SUV that seats up to seven people, depending on the seating configuration. The available PowerFold third-row seats offer up to 47.9 cubic feet of cargo space, while folding down the second-row seats provides up to 87.8 cubic feet behind the first row. Behind the third row, the 2024 Ford Explorer SUV has up to 18.2 cubic feet of cargo room. Using the Ford+Alexa app, available for iPhone and Android, you can access voice-activated SYNC 3 AppLink with voice navigation and traffic information to plan your route effectively.

Comparative Analysis With Competitors

Most rival SUVs of its class and size, including the Chevrolet Traverse, Toyota 4Runner, and the Hyundai PALISADE, have a towing capacity of around 5,000 pounds. When properly equipped, the 2024 Explorer has a maximum towing capacity of 5,300 to 5,600 pounds, so it’s a sound choice for those looking for maximum towing capacity for work or play.

Visit Brewster Ford in Brewster, New York

The 2024 Ford Explorer is a testament to Ford’s commitment to providing vehicles that blend everyday utility with the capacity for adventurous pursuits. Its ability to handle diverse towing needs makes it an excellent choice for families and individuals who require a vehicle that’s as versatile as their lifestyle. With its impressive towing capabilities, safety features, and robust performance, the 2024 Ford Explorer stands out as a reliable partner for all your journeys, big or small. Visit your local Ford dealership for a firsthand look or test drive of the 2024 Explorer and its towing features.

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