Ranking 2026 Ford SUVs by Towing Power: What Manitobans Need to Know

When you're planning a family camping trip, hauling a boat to the lake, or towing equipment for work across Manitoba, towing capacity isn't just a spec - it's the difference between confidence and compromise. Ford's 2026 SUV lineup delivers serious capability, with towing ratings ranging from 2,200 lbs to 9,600 lbs. Whether you're a weekend adventurer or need heavy-duty hauling for your business, understanding which Ford SUV matches your needs helps you make the right choice.

Let's break down the 2026 Ford SUV lineup by towing capacity, from the trail-ready compact to the full-size family hauler.

The Towing Capacity Hierarchy

Ford's 2026 SUV range spans multiple segments, each engineered for different towing demands. At the entry level, the Bronco Sport offers 2,200 lbs of capability - ideal for small utility trailers or lightweight recreational gear. The Escape delivers 3,500 lbs, suitable for modest boat trailers or campers. The Explorer steps up to 5,600 lbs, while the Bronco and Bronco Raptor reach 3,500 lbs and 4,500 lbs respectively. At the top of the lineup, the Expedition and Expedition MAX dominate with up to 9,600 lbs and 9,000 lbs.

Quick Reference: 2026 Ford SUV Towing Capacity

Full-Size Leaders: Expedition Family

The 2026 Ford Expedition stands as the towing champion in Ford's SUV lineup. With a maximum towing capacity of 9,600 lbs when properly equipped, the standard-wheelbase Expedition handles large travel trailers, boats, and equipment with authority. Power comes from a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 producing 400 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard Control Trac 4-wheel drive.

The Expedition MAX, with its extended wheelbase, trades 600 lbs of towing capacity for more cargo volume. At 9,000 lbs maximum towing, it still outpaces most competitors while offering families 3,485 litres of space behind the first row - nearly 300 mm more length than the standard model. Both variants seat up to eight passengers and feature advanced towing aids like Pro Trailer Backup Assist and Pro Trailer Hitch Assist.

For off-road enthusiasts who refuse to compromise on towing, the Expedition Tremor delivers 9,300 lbs of capacity alongside serious trail credentials. Standard equipment includes the High-Output 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (440 hp, 510 lb-ft), 33-inch all-terrain tires, 269 mm of ground clearance, and Rock Crawl mode. The Tremor's electronic locking rear differential and improved approach angles (26.0°) make it equally capable at the boat launch and on backcountry trails.

Inside, the Expedition features a 24-inch panoramic display as part of the Ford Digital Experience, Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0, and available BlueCruise 1.5 hands-free highway driving. Families appreciate the spacious three-row seating and available premium features like massaging front seats and a 14-speaker B&O audio system.

Mid-Range Capability: Explorer

The 2026 Ford Explorer offers 5,600 lbs of towing capacity, positioning it well for families who occasionally haul mid-size boats, campers, or utility trailers. The Explorer lineup includes multiple engine options, with the available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 delivering 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque - the same powerplant found in the performance-oriented Explorer ST.

Standard all-wheel drive with a Torsen limited-slip differential ensures confident towing in variable conditions, while the off-road-tuned suspension provides a smooth, controlled ride. The Explorer Tremor variant adds enhanced off-road capability with specially tuned springs, sway bars, underbody protection, and an extra inch of ride height.

The Explorer features the Ford Digital Experience, Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0, and available BlueCruise 1.5 hands-free highway driving. Families appreciate the spacious three-row seating and available premium features like massaging front seats and a 14-speaker B&O audio system.

Adventure-Ready: Bronco and Bronco Sport

The 2026 Ford Bronco delivers 3,500 lbs of towing capacity across most trims, with the high-performance Bronco Raptor pushing that figure to 4,500 lbs. While these ratings fall below the Explorer and Expedition, they're engineered specifically for off-road enthusiasts who prioritize trail capability alongside moderate towing needs.

The Bronco's body-on-frame construction, advanced 4x4 systems, and removable doors make it ideal for hauling small campers, ATVs, or adventure trailers to remote locations. The Raptor variant adds a High-Output EcoBoost engine, FOX Racing Shox, and 35-inch tires, creating a unique combination of desert-running performance and respectable towing capability.

At the entry level, the Bronco Sport offers 2,200 lbs of towing - enough for kayaks, small utility trailers, or lightweight camping gear. Its compact dimensions make it easy to manoeuvre on tight trails, while standard all-wheel drive and available G.O.A.T. Modes (Goes Over Any Terrain) provide confidence in challenging conditions.

Everyday Versatility: Escape

The 2026 Ford Escape offers 3,500 lbs of maximum towing capacity, making it a practical choice for families who need occasional hauling capability without the size or fuel consumption of a full-size SUV. The Escape features available all-wheel drive and modern powertrains that balance efficiency with capability.

The Escape's compact footprint makes it easier to park and navigate urban environments while still providing comfortable interior space. The SUV includes Ford's latest connectivity features, advanced driver assistance technologies, and comfortable interiors suitable for daily driving and weekend adventures.

The Escape excels at towing smaller boats, pop-up campers, or utility trailers - tasks that don't require the heavy-duty capability of larger SUVs but still demand reliable performance.

Choosing the Right Towing Capacity

Selecting the appropriate towing capacity starts with understanding your actual needs. Calculate the total weight of your trailer, cargo, and any additional equipment you'll carry. Remember that your vehicle's payload capacity (passengers and cargo inside the vehicle) reduces available towing capacity, so account for family members and gear.

For occasional light-duty hauling - kayaks, small utility trailers, or lightweight camping equipment - the Bronco Sport's 2,200 lbs or the Escape's 3,500 lbs provide adequate capability. Families who regularly tow mid-size boats or campers will find the Explorer's 5,600 lbs more appropriate. Those hauling large travel trailers, multiple ATVs, or heavy equipment need the Expedition's 9,600 lbs maximum capacity.

Consider also the frequency of your towing. If you're hauling every weekend, investing in a higher-capacity vehicle provides a comfortable safety margin and reduces strain on the powertrain.

Towing Technology and Safety Features

Ford equips its 2026 SUV lineup with advanced towing technologies that simplify hitching, backing up, and monitoring trailer performance. Pro Trailer Backup Assist uses a rotary knob to control trailer direction - you steer the trailer, and the system manages the vehicle's steering wheel. Pro Trailer Hitch Assist uses cameras and sensors to guide you through the hitching process, displaying alignment markers on the centre screen.

The Expedition and Explorer offer additional features like Trailer Sway Control, which automatically applies brakes and reduces engine power if it detects trailer instability. Integrated trailer brake controllers allow you to adjust trailer brake gain from the driver's seat, while available 360-degree cameras provide a comprehensive view when manoeuvring in tight spaces.

All models include Ford Co-Pilot360 2.0 driver assistance features, with available upgrades like Blind Spot Information System with trailer coverage, which monitors the extended length of your vehicle and trailer combination.

Power and Efficiency Considerations

Towing capacity depends heavily on powertrain selection. The Expedition's twin-turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost V6 produces 400 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque in standard form, with the High-Output variant (Tremor and available on Platinum) delivering 440 hp and 510 lb-ft. This combination of power and torque provides confident acceleration even when towing near maximum capacity.

The Explorer's available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (400 hp, 415 lb-ft) offers similar capability in a smaller package, while the standard 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder balances performance with improved fuel economy for lighter-duty towing. Fuel consumption estimates for the Expedition's 3.5L V6 4x4 are 15.4 L/100 km city, 10.7 L/100 km highway, and 13.3 L/100 km combined.

When towing, expect fuel consumption to increase by 20-40% depending on trailer weight, aerodynamics, and terrain. The Expedition's larger fuel tank capacity helps extend range between fill-ups during long towing trips.

Find Your Ideal Towing Partner at Kelleher Ford

Whether you're hauling a fishing boat to Lake Manitoba, towing equipment for your business, or planning a family camping adventure across the prairies, Ford's 2026 SUV lineup offers a towing solution that matches your needs. From the trail-ready Bronco Sport to the full-size Expedition, each model delivers the capability, technology, and confidence you need for your Manitoba lifestyle.

Visit our team at Kelleher Ford to explore the complete lineup, discuss your specific towing requirements, and see how these SUVs combine power, versatility, and advanced features. Our product specialists can help you configure the right vehicle for your needs and explain the towing technologies that make every journey safer and more enjoyable.