What Is the Towing Capacity of the Ford Explorer?

Are you shopping for a three-row SUV in Conshohocken? Trunk space is likely an important factor. The Ford Explorer has won over countless families, but you may be wondering if it has enough room to accommodate your lifestyle. Our guide breaks down exactly what the Explorer can hold, helping you figure out if it's right for your family's storage needs. more New Ford Explorer Inventory Ford Explorer Trunk Space by Trim Level The 2025 Ford Explorer comes in four trim levels: the Active, ST-Line, Platinum, and ST, with starting prices from $40,050 to $52,525. Despite their unique personalities, cargo space is almost identical across all options. Every model gives you 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row, 46 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum capacity that barely changes between trims. The Active model delivers 85.8 cubic feet of max cargo space, while the ST-Line, ST, and Platinum trims offer 85.3 cubic feet — just half a cubic foot separates them. This means you won't lose storage space when upgrading to higher models with more premium materials. Passenger volume is a little more varied: both the Active and ST-Line give 152.9 cubic feet, the ST has 151.8 cubic feet, and the 2025 Explorer Platinum provides 146 cubic feet. Even with these differences, choosing a higher trim doesn't mean your family has to sacrifice cargo space. Seating Configuration Impact on Storage Space The Explorer offers three flexible seating setups for different family needs, allowing your passengers to stay comfortable while leaving room for cargo. In the Active trim, front riders get 43 inches of legroom and 40.7 inches of headroom, middle passengers enjoy 39 inches of legroom and 40.5 inches of headroom, and third-row passengers have 32.2 inches of legroom and 38.9 inches of headroom. You can fit seven people with the third-row bench seat or six with captain's chairs, and split-folding seats let you adjust for passengers and cargo as needed. Higher trims include that innovative PowerFold third row — with the touch of a button, the seats adjust like magic. The E-Z Entry system helps kids climb into the back without a struggle. These little touches matter during hectic school mornings or when loading up for Pocono Mountain weekends. You'll love how quickly your Explorer switches modes when your plans change. Cargo Organization and Storage Solutions Raw space is just the start — the Explorer adds smart organization features that optimize its capacity. The Cargo Area Management System gives you a lift-up rear floor with bonus storage underneath, plus a divider tray for customization. This hidden spot works great for valuables, roadside tools, or small items you don't want bouncing around during your Philly commute. The available Cargo Tailgate Manager does double duty as a storage shelf that holds 35 pounds and a convertible mini table with pop-out legs — perfect for Eagles tailgates or Valley Forge picnics. Underfloor compartments and side pockets help organize everything from cleats to shopping bags, so you won't waste time hunting for lost items. For even more capacity, the roof rack carries up to 100 pounds evenly spread (on models without the glass roof). Add the Thule crossbar system with locks for extra hauling power with minimal wind noise on highways. Every Explorer includes a Class III hitch rated for 5,000 pounds — enough for small boats, campers, or cargo carriers. A power liftgate comes standard, with hands-free functionality on higher trims for those moments when your arms are full of groceries or sports gear. Real-World Cargo Space Applications With all the seats up (16.3 cubic feet), you can fit a stroller, carry-on bag, duffel bag, shopping totes, plus a week's groceries. Fold the third row (46 cubic feet) and you're set for bigger adventures; the Explorer can fit your camping gear for French Creek weekends or Home Depot supplies for your latest project. You can haul team sports gear or a massive Costco run while still carrying passengers in comfort. With both rear rows down (exceeding 85 cubic feet), your Explorer can move furniture, haul bikes, or accommodate tons of camping equipment. Don't forget the Explorer's towing capacity, which lets you pull a camper to the Jersey Shore or a boat to local lakes. Ford Explorer vs. Competitors Cargo Comparison How does the Explorer stack up against its 2025 competitors? The Chevrolet Traverse leads with 98 cubic feet max cargo space, while the Honda Pilot offers 87 cubic feet total, 48.5 behind the second row, and 18.6 behind the third. Toyota's Grand Highlander delivers 97.5 cubic feet max, 57.9 behind the second row, and 20.6 behind the third row. The Hyundai PALISADE gives you 86.4 cubic feet max, 45.8 cubic feet behind the second row, and 18 cubic feet with all the seats up, putting it neck-and-neck with the Explorer. While Explorer doesn't win the pure volume contest, it brings something special: a mix of performance options and towing muscle that many families need. Reviewers often call its cargo area roomy for its class. The balance of passenger comfort and storage flexibility works well for families juggling daily driving and weekend adventures. The Explorer's strength lies in its versatility — it's equally ready for carpooling the kids to school or towing boats to the lake. Make the Most of Your Explorer's Storage Potential Want to squeeze out even more space from your Explorer? Start with the basics — toss out clutter such as old gym bags or extra tools to free up room. Try collapsible bins that flatten when empty, and pick soft duffel bags over bulky hard suitcases. For large hauls, stack your cargo vertically, with heavy stuff on the bottom and light items on top. Keep daily essentials near the liftgate for easy accessibility. And don't forget add-ons that can enhance your hauling capacity. Cargo nets stop smaller items from sliding during turns, and rubber floor mats protect against mud after hiking trips or rainy games. Roof racks and hitch accessories double what you can carry, making your Explorer incredibly versatile for both daily life and big adventures. Discover the Ford Explorer at John Kennedy Ford Conshohocken The 2025 Ford Explorer stands out for families needing flexible storage without sacrificing comfort. Whether you're hauling groceries, sports gear, or vacation luggage, this SUV adapts to whatever life throws at you. Ready to check out this SUV's spacious cargo area yourself? Contact us at John Kennedy Ford Conshohocken for a test drive and see how the Explorer can fit your family's specific storage needs.

If you're looking around Conshohocken for your next SUV, check out the brand-new Ford Explorer. The 2025 model's reimagined interior offers comfort features and smart tech that make sense for daily family life. From roomy seating to clever storage solutions, this refreshed cabin makes every school run, grocery haul, and weekend adventure easier. more New Explorer Inventory Stylish and Functional Design Ford went back to square one with the 2025 Explorer's design. It features subtle exterior changes and trim-specific grilles in addition to an updated interior. With an 8.7/10 from U.S. News (sitting at No. 14 in midsize SUVs) and a solid 87/100 reliability score, this family-focused model has the performance to match its looks. Seating Options and Comfort The Ford Explorer's seating arrangement fits seven people as standard, but you can swap the middle bench for captain's chairs. This six-seat layout is a lifesaver for carpool duty, allowing for easy back-row access. Second-row passengers get 39 inches of legroom, while the third row offers 32.2 inches — better than some rivals but mainly ideal for kids or shorter adults. Ford moved the dashboard forward, giving front-seat passengers extra breathing room, and for more space in back, the second row slides forward with the push of a button. Extras such as a 10-way power driver's seat and the Active Motion massage function will keep you comfortable on long drives out of town. For cold mornings, the available heated front- and second-row seats have you covered. The Platinum trim gets diamond-pattern leather and power-folding rear seats that pack down with ease. Cutting-Edge Technological Features The 2025 Explorer's huge 13.2-inch screen runs Ford's Digital Experience system. It's responsive, intuitive, and won't leave you poking at menus in frustration. The 12.3-inch digital instrument display lets you customize the driving info. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto keep your phone linked without tangled cables, and the built-in 5G Wi-Fi can handle up to 10 devices at once. Below the main screen, you'll find a handy shelf that's perfect for phones, with optional wireless charging. Ford's suite of safety features is practical without being annoying. Lane-keep assist gently centers you when you drift out of your lane, while the driver fatigue monitor reminds you to take breaks when you're getting sleepy. If you hate parking, Active Park Assist 2.0 practically does it for you. Ford's Co-Pilot360 system comes standard with every model, while higher-level trims include the upgraded Assist+ system for extra protection. The BlueCruise system allows for hands-free driving on compatible roads, and the Google-based system will instantly feel familiar if you're an Android user. Interior Dimensions and Space Utilization The Ford Explorer's interior dimensions give you a surprising amount of storage space. Behind the third row, you get 16.3 cubic feet, enough for groceries and sports gear. Fold the back seats and that number jumps to 46 cubic feet. For major Costco trips and furniture, you can fold both back rows down to get up to 85.8 cubic feet with the Active trim. Smart storage spaces are all throughout the cabin. Hidden compartments under the floor keep valuables out of sight, while the door pockets fit big water bottles easily. The center console is big enough to hide a laptop, and you can open the liftgate by waving your foot under the bumper. For a midsize crossover, the Explorer cleverly uses its space, making it a practical choice for daily life and weekend trips around Pennsylvania. Color and Upholstery Options The 2025 Explorer includes five interior color choices: Active: Ultra Dark Space Gray (standard) and Light Space Gray (with the Active Comfort Package) ST and ST-Line: Onyx with red stitching Platinum: Mojave Dusk (standard) and Salt Crystal Gray (with the Lux Leather Package) Upholstery material options include cloth, the easy to clean synthetic ActiveX, and premium leather with special Miko holes for improved ventilation on hot summer days. The Platinum model also features a leather-wrapped dash to match the seats, and the diamond pattern in higher trims is stylish yet subtle. At night, customizable mood lighting ties it all together, letting you match the cabin to your mood. Innovations in Climate Control Every Explorer model includes three-zone climate controls so everyone can set their own temperatures. New air filters catch more dust, pollen, and particles — great if your family deals with allergy issues. The heated steering wheel warms your fingers quickly, while the cooled front seats keep you comfortable in the summer. Many rivals at a similar price range only offer two-zone climate controls, showing how Ford designed the Explorer with families in mind. Infotainment and Connectivity The 2025 Explorer comes with Google Maps built-in for live traffic updates and Google Assistant for voice commands. Amazon Alexa lets your car talk to your smart home devices. System updates are over the air, meaning no more dealer visits just to fix bugs or update maps. If you're a music lover, the 2025 Explorer has got you covered. With several options for audio streaming — including Spotify, Amazon Music, and Audible through Google Play — and a Bang & Olufsen sound system with customizable speaker configurations, you can turn every commute into a personal concert experience. Every trim level also comes standard with a three-month free trial of SiriusXM. Experience the 2025 Ford Explorer Interior at John Kennedy Ford Conshohocken From smart storage to climate settings that keep everyone happy, Ford designed the 2025 Explorer's cabin with real families in mind. If you're ready to check it out, visit us at John Kennedy Ford Conshohocken. Our expert team will walk you through the Explorer's features and tell you more about our great deals. Schedule a test-drive today, call 267-215-4257 with questions, or just drop by. Better yet, visit our website first to check out our inventory and come prepared. Find your family's next favorite ride today with John Kennedy Ford Conshohocken.

Since its launch, the Ford Explorer has become a firm favorite among SUV drivers in the U.S. With over 8 million units sold, it's clear that this adaptable vehicle has a loyal following. But let's be honest — not all model years are created equally when it comes to reliability. If you're shopping for a used Explorer, you'll want to know which years are the most dependable to avoid expensive breakdowns and repairs. more Used Explorer Inventory Understanding the Ford Explorer's Legacy The Ford Explorer made its debut in 1990 and quickly gained popularity as America's appetite for SUVs grew. Unlike its smaller predecessor, the Bronco II, the Explorer gave families ample room while still tackling both city streets and off-road trails with equal confidence. Over the past three decades, the vehicle has changed significantly, evolving to meet shifting consumer demands and keep pace with technological advancements. Through it all, Ford has successfully maintained the Explorer's relevance in a competitive market. Identifying the Best Years for the Ford Explorer The Explorer received a thorough refresh for the 2016 model year, with later fifth-generation models including a fuel-efficient 2.3L EcoBoost engine as standard that's paired with a reliable six-speed automatic transmission. They also include a suite of premium safety features previously found only in luxury vehicles. The interior offers comfortable seating, intuitive technology, and abundant storage space, which is ideal for families and adventurers alike. When properly equipped, these Explorers can tow up to 5,000 pounds — sufficient for most recreational needs. This combination of capability, reliability, and modern features makes later fifth-generation models an excellent choice for used SUV shoppers. Newer sixth-generation models (2020-present) maintain this trend, with the latest 2025 model earning 83/100 from J.D. Power for quality and reliability and a five-star NHTSA score. This generation offers improved performance and towing power. Also worth considering is the fourth-generation 2009 model, which is particularly notable for its low number of complaints on Car Complaints and a J.D. Power quality and reliability score of 85/100. How To Avoid the Less Reliable Ford Explorer Years Not all Ford Explorer model years perform equally well. The 2002 model, in particular, stands out for its number of negative reviews, with 3,617 NHTSA complaints and 3,967 Car Complaints reports, mostly related to transmission issues. Fixing a 2002 Explorer's transmission can cost you around $3,000 — a significant expense. Fourth-generation (2006-2010) models are known for developing timing chain issues, which can lead to engine failure. Plus, the third-generation 2005 Explorer was part of a huge recall involving over four million vehicles due to faulty cruise control switches that could potentially start fires. Add in frequent transmission failures and suspension issues, and it's clear why experts often warn buyers away from this year. What To Look For When Buying a Used Ford Explorer Research is crucial when buying a used Explorer. Always check the vehicle history report and maintenance records. Take a test drive, evaluate the vehicle's transmission shifting and suspension performance, and listen for any unusual sounds that might indicate underlying expensive problems. Investing $100 to $200 in a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is your best protection against purchasing an unreliable vehicle. This small expense could save you thousands by revealing hidden issues and helping you to negotiate better on price. While well-maintained vehicles from problematic years can still perform adequately, you'll generally find more peace of mind with the reliable models mentioned earlier. Is the Ford Explorer the Right Choice for You? There's no doubt about the Ford Explorer's popularity. With around 200,000 sold annually, it remains one of the country's top-selling SUVs. Its blend of spacious interiors, capable performance, and modern features attracts families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. But is it right for you? That depends on your needs and driving habits. The best way to find out is to get behind the wheel. Contact us at John Kennedy Ford Conshohocken to arrange a test drive and explore our inventory. Our team can help match you with the perfect Explorer for your lifestyle, whether you want brand new or gently used.