Hastings Ford – Can the 2026 Ford Explorer Tow What You Need near Grand Island, NE?
The 2026 Ford Explorer has earned attention from families and weekend adventurers across central Nebraska, and a key question many shoppers ask is whether it can confidently tow their gear. At Hastings Ford, we help drivers near Grand Island, NE understand what the Explorer can pull, how its powertrains support towing, and which features make hauling smoother and more secure.
The Explorer lineup offers two strong engine options paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Most trims feature a turbocharged 2.3-liter engine rated at 300 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of torque. For drivers who want maximum punch, the ST model uses a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 delivering 400 horsepower and 415 lb.-ft. of torque, with that V-6 also optional on Platinum. Rear-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is available to add all-season traction for towing on gravel driveways or wet boat ramps around the Platte River and local lakes.
Properly equipped, the 2026 Ford Explorer offers a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. Every model includes a Class III Trailer Tow Package with a factory-mounted hitch, a trailer wiring harness, and Trailer Sway Control. That means whether you choose an Active, ST-Line, Tremor, Platinum, or ST, your Explorer arrives ready for real towing duty right off the lot—no aftermarket guesswork required.
- Fishing boat and trailer: Many aluminum fishing rigs and their trailers commonly fall within the Explorer’s capability for weekends at nearby recreation areas.
- Small camper: Compact travel trailers and pop-up campers are often a comfortable fit for family trips across Nebraska when packed thoughtfully.
- Utility trailer: A single-axle trailer loaded with lawn equipment, DIY supplies, or household goods is a practical tow for local projects.
- Toys and gear: ATVs, dirt bikes, or a couple of kayaks on a light trailer are easy add-ons for outdoor fun near Grand Island.
To help you get the most from your Explorer’s towing hardware, a quick pre-trip routine creates confidence and keeps you focused on the drive.
- Hitch and hardware: Confirm the correct ball mount, torque the hitch hardware, and secure safety chains in a crisscross pattern.
- Electrical connection: Plug in the trailer wiring harness, verify brake lights and turn signals, and check for secure cable routing.
- Weight distribution: Load heavier items over the axle, maintain proper tongue weight, and avoid exceeding the Explorer’s ratings.
- Tires and pressures: Set SUV and trailer tires to the recommended pressures and inspect tread depth and sidewalls.
- Mirrors and visibility: Adjust mirrors for trailer width and sightlines, and clear the rear glass for camera and mirror visibility.
Shoppers also ask how drivetrain and trim choices affect towing feel. Rear-wheel drive provides a stable baseline for highway hauling, while available all-wheel drive adds confidence on loose surfaces and during winter weather. For off-pavement approaches to campsites or boat launches, the new Tremor trim enhances traction with a lifted suspension, all-terrain tires, and a limited-slip rear differential—features designed for rougher access roads, while the Class III Trailer Tow Package handles the hitch duty.
The Explorer’s technology suite supports your time on the road, towing or not. A standard 13.2-inch LCD touchscreen anchors the Ford Digital Experience for seamless smartphone integration and navigation routing, while standard driver-assist features such as forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist help promote situational awareness as you move from city streets to rural highways.
If you would like hands-on guidance with hitching, weights, or loading, our team at Hastings Ford is ready to walk through your specific boat, camper, or trailer setup. We serve drivers across Grand Island, Hastings, Kearney, and the surrounding communities, and we are happy to help you pair the right Explorer trim and drivetrain with your towing plans.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the maximum towing capacity of the 2026 Ford Explorer?
The 2026 Ford Explorer offers a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Every trim includes a Class III Trailer Tow Package with a factory hitch, a trailer wiring harness, and Trailer Sway Control to help stabilize the trailer in challenging conditions.
Which engine should I choose if I plan to tow often?
The 2.3-liter engine is a strong, efficient everyday choice for light to moderate trailers within the 5,000-pound rating. If you regularly tow near the top of that range or want brisk acceleration while loaded, the 3.0-liter V-6 in the ST (and available on Platinum) provides added confidence.
Does all-wheel drive change the Explorer’s tow rating?
The maximum towing capacity remains up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Choosing all-wheel drive does not increase the rating; it adds traction benefits for launching a boat on a slick ramp, pulling out of a gravel campsite, or towing through winter weather around Grand Island.
Ready to see how the 2026 Ford Explorer feels with your daily driving and weekend plans? Visit Hastings Ford in Hastings, NE to compare trims, explore engine and drivetrain options, and review towing best practices tailored to your gear. Our team will help you select an Explorer that fits your routine today and your adventures tomorrow.
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