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Can the 2021 Ford Expedition Tow a Travel Trailer?

Can the 2021 Ford Expedition Tow a Travel Trailer?

When you’re talking about SUVs, the 2021 Ford Expedition is almost a conversation in itself. There are plenty of reasons why these big Fords are consistently among the most popular of all SUVs.

With three roomy rows, an Expedition can carry up to eight people – or a heck of a lot of cargo. They’re more powerful than some trucks and have lots of features that make towing easier.

Let’s dig into the details!

About the 2021 Ford Expedition

If you see an SUV described as a “workhorse,” it’s usually a stretch. But that’s not so in the case of the 2021 Ford Expedition. It’s at the top of its class in terms of being big and brawny. What’s more, it offers a smooth, comfortable, quiet ride that might make you feel like you’re riding in a car.

First launched in 1997, the Expedition has matured over the years into a real leader among SUVs. It’s powered by a turbocharged 3.5L V6 engine that provides 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque.

The wheelbase is 122.5 inches, and the overall length is 131.6 inches. The Expedition MAX, which was formerly known as the EL, is longer by nearly a foot. Ford designed this version specifically to compete with other mega-SUVs like the Chevrolet Suburban and the GMC Yukon.

Ford offers standard rear-wheel-drive, and four-wheel-drive is available as well. There are four different trims – King Ranch, XLT, Stealth, and Platinum. Gas mileage for the Expedition is estimated at 17 mpg on the highway and 23 in the city. Base retail prices range from $49,025 to $78,825, depending on the model and features.

How Much Can the 2021 Ford Expedition Tow? 

At the very minimum, the Expedition can pull 9,000 pounds. When equipped with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Package, the maximum increases to an impressive 9,300 pounds for the two-wheel-drive version.

This towing package includes a heavy-duty radiator, an electronic limited-slip differential, backup assist, and an integrated trailer brake controller.

Other factors affect the towing capacity, including the weight of your cargo and the number of passengers.

Do All Expeditions Have a Hitch? 

A hitch isn’t standard equipment for the 2021 Ford Expedition, but a hitch receiver is. If you don’t see the hitch receiver check the bumper for a plastic panel. Although, a hitch is provided with all Expeditions equipped with the trailer package. Plus, it has weight distribution capability.

2021 Ford Expedition is more powerful than some trucks and have lots of features that make towing easier.
2021 Ford Expedition is more powerful than some trucks and have lots of features that make towing easier.

Is the Ford Expedition a Good Towing Vehicle?

The Expedition won’t tow as much weight as a heavy-duty truck, but it leaves many vehicles in the dust. Additional features make the Ford Expedition a good choice as a tow vehicle. A system called AdvanceTrac helps to control trailer sway, and a Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) helps with visibility.

It also has large side-view mirrors and a tight turning radius, which is helpful when maneuvering a trailer.

That roominess we mentioned means lots of legroom and shoulder room so your passengers can stretch out comfortably. It also leaves lots of room for camping supplies. Standard wheelbase models have up to 20.9 cubic feet of space behind the third row. That expands to almost 64 cubic feet when you fold down the third row. Drop the second and third rows for a total of 104.6 cubic feet. The Expedition Max provides considerably more space for all of your camping supplies.

Can the 2021 Ford Expedition Tow a Travel Trailer? 

Does it have what it takes to tow a travel trailer? You betcha. In fact, it just may be the best SUV there is for towing. Though, this doesn’t mean you can hitch up the biggest rig.

Trailers up to 22 feet are typically safely within the towing range of the 2021 Ford Expedition.
Trailers up to 22 feet are typically safely within the towing range of the 2021 Ford Expedition.

Types of Travel Trailers the Expedition Can Tow

Fifth-wheel trailers are out of the question because of their design. You’d need a truck for them because the hitch coupler is actually inside the truck bed. Many toy haulers will be too much for an Expedition, but some are a safe bet. Small travel trailers, which are less than 22 feet, are typically safely within the towing range of the 2021 Ford Expedition.

It should also be able to handle some large travel trailers. 

Alternative: Have you looked into Ford F150? Here’s how much an F150 can tow.

How Reliable is a Ford Expedition?

The Expedition is consistently ranked high in many categories, including customer satisfaction and reliability. It typically gets a rating of around 8 out of 10 in reviews, sometimes higher. 

The 2021 Ford Expedition – One of the Best

Some people will always prefer a truck for towing purposes.

For SUV lovers, the 2021 Ford Expedition is one of the biggest out there, and it’s one of the best. In fact, it’s got some built-in features that will make the job easier for you.

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