What is the best Expedition trim for towing?
The best Expedition trim for towing isn’t defined by the name alone; it’s about choosing a configuration that can be paired with Ford’s Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package and, if you’re regularly pulling heavy loads, the Expedition MAX version. In practical terms, you’ll want a trim that offers easy access to the tow package and the space (payload and wheelbase) to handle larger trailers.
To understand why this matters, it helps to know how towing capability works on the Ford Expedition. The engine, drivetrain, rear axle gearing, and tow equipment determine how much you can tow. While trim level affects interior features and price, the key to high towing capacity is selecting the right options rather than chasing a single “best” trim. The Expedition MAX adds length and payload capacity, which can translate to higher towing potential when equipped for heavy loads.
Understanding Expedition Tow Capabilities
When evaluating towing capability, consider the following factors that can be configured across multiple trims. These choices directly influence how much weight you can safely tow and how smoothly you can pull a trailer.
Engine and tow-system considerations
The Expedition uses Ford’s 3.5L EcoBoost V6 paired with a 10‑speed automatic transmission. A heavy-duty trailer tow package enhances cooling and braking for towing, and it can enable higher tow ratings on both standard and longer-wheelbase variants. Drive modes, including Tow/Haul, optimize shift points and engine braking for bigger loads.
Before you choose a trim, remember: the tow rating is a function of the drivetrain configuration and the presence of the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package, not the trim tier alone. The Expedition MAX variant, with a longer wheelbase and greater payload, is the option to consider if you frequently tow heavy trailers.
Trims and Tow: Guidance for Choosing
Below is guidance on how trims typically align with towing capability when equipped with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package. The goal is to show practical choices for different budgets and towing needs.
- XLT: The most budget-friendly way to get strong towing if you add the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package. This trim balances value with capability, making it a popular choice for buyers who tow but don’t want to overspend on luxury features.
- Limited: A step up in comfort and technology; when paired with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package, it delivers robust towing capability with nicer interior features and comfort for long trips.
- King Ranch: Luxury-oriented trim that can be configured for strong towing with the HD Tow Package, combining premium interior with substantial towing capacity.
- Platinum: The top-tier trim that can still be paired with the Heavy-Duty Tow Package; provides premium features while maintaining strong towing potential.
- Timberline: Off-road-oriented, but it can still be equipped for towing with the HD Tow Package; it’s not the typical choice for maximum tow weight, but it remains capable for lighter heavy-duty towing if you value rugged suspension and ground clearance.
In practical terms, the maximum towing capability—up to around 9,300 pounds when properly equipped with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package—is achieved on the Expedition MAX configured for heavy loads. Interior luxury or off-road cred will depend on trim, but the towing figure itself hinges on the optioned tow package and the Expedition MAX platform rather than the trim name alone.
Which Trim Should You Buy for Towing?
Bottom line: if your primary concern is maximum towing ability, prioritize Expedition MAX with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package. For a strong balance of capability and value, a mid-level trim (XLT or Limited) with the HD Tow Package is a sensible choice, offering solid towing performance with a comfortable cabin. If you want premium features while still towing, King Ranch or Platinum with the HD Tow Package remains a viable route—but you’ll pay a premium for the luxury level.
Summary
The best Expedition trim for towing is less about the trim name and more about equipment. Aim for the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package and, if heavy towing is a frequent task, choose the Expedition MAX to maximize payload and towing potential. For many buyers, an XLT or Limited paired with the HD Tow Package hits a sweet spot between cost and capability, while King Ranch and Platinum offer luxury alongside strong towing when equipped appropriately. Always verify the specific tow rating for your chosen configuration and trailer requirements before pulling.
Which Ford Expedition has the best towing capacity?
The Ford Expedition with the highest towing capacity is the standard-wheelbase model with the available Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package, which can tow up to 9,300 lbs or 9,600 lbs depending on the model year and configuration. In contrast, the longer Expedition MAX can tow a maximum of 9,000 lbs when similarly equipped. To achieve maximum towing capacity, the vehicle must be properly equipped with the correct engine, axle ratio, and tow package, and a weight-distributing hitch may be required.
Highest towing capacities by model year
- 2025 Ford Expedition: Up to 9,300 lbs for standard-wheelbase models with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package.
- 2024 Ford Expedition: Up to 9,300 lbs for the 4x2 standard-wheelbase model with the available Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package.
- 2023 Ford Expedition: Up to 9,300 lbs for models with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine and the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package.
Key factors for maximum towing capacity
- Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package: This is essential for reaching the maximum towing capacity.
- Engine and Axle Ratio: The specific engine and axle ratio determine the maximum towing capability, so check your vehicle's configuration.
- Weight-Distributing Hitch: A weight-distributing hitch is often required to achieve the highest towing numbers.
- Wheelbase: The standard-wheelbase Expedition generally offers a higher towing capacity than the longer Expedition MAX.
Is Ford Expedition Limited or Platinum better?
The primary differences between the Expedition Limited and Platinum are the Platinum trim's inclusion of luxury and tech upgrades, such as more powerful engine options (on some model years), Continuously Controlled Damping suspension, power-deployable running boards, and a 22-speaker B&O sound system. While the Limited is a well-equipped trim with a good mix of features, the Platinum adds premium touches like massaging, multi-contour front seats and higher-end interior and exterior styling.
You can watch this video for a visual comparison of the Expedition Active and Platinum trims: 59sCTech-reviewYouTube · Jul 25, 2025
Key differences
| Feature | Limited | Platinum |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Power | Standard 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | Standard 3.5L EcoBoost V6 with a slight horsepower bump (400 hp on some models), with a 440 hp High Output option available |
| Suspension | Standard suspension | Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD) suspension with road preview |
| Seats | Heated front and second-row seats | Multi-contour front seats with Active Motion® massage, plus heated and ventilated front seats |
| Audio | 10- or 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen (B&O) system | 22-speaker B&O Unleashed Sound System with subwoofer |
| Wheels | Typically 20-inch wheels | 22-inch polished aluminum wheels |
| Running Boards | Standard running boards | Power-deployable running boards |
| Interior Accents | Standard interior | Satin aluminum and woodgrain appliques |
| Infotainment | SYNC 3 or 4 system with a 12-inch touchscreen | SYNC 4A with a 15.5-inch touchscreen and a 12.4-inch digital gauge cluster |
| Exterior | Standard exterior styling | Higher-end exterior accents and finishes, with elements like brushed aluminum front door scuff plates and unique grille designs |
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This video explains the different trim levels of the Expedition: 43sLeif Johnson FordYouTube · May 14, 2025
Which one should you choose?
- Choose the Limited if: You want a well-equipped SUV with many of the most-wanted features but don't need the absolute top-tier luxury and advanced tech of the Platinum.
- Choose the Platinum if: You want the most luxurious and feature-rich Expedition available, with premium materials, advanced technology like the massage seats and larger screens, and a higher-performance engine option.
What year of Ford Expedition to stay away from?
Years to avoid for the Ford Expedition include 2003-2006 and 2011, which are known for engine, electrical, and transmission issues. Some newer models, particularly around 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021, are also cited for various problems like transmission trouble, issues with running boards, and other mechanical failures. It is best to choose a model year with better reliability ratings, such as 2015 or 2020, or focus on the fourth generation (2018-2024) or newer, which generally have better ratings.
Older generations (second and third)
- 2003–2006: These models are particularly notorious for having multiple complaints, including engine and drivetrain problems, brake failure, and electrical issues.
- 2011: This year is frequently mentioned for being problematic, though the specific issues are not as detailed as for the earlier years.
Newer generations (fourth)
- 2017–2019: Issues include rough shifting transmissions, problems with automatic running boards, and other powertrain concerns.
- 2018–2020: Some models are noted for poor fuel economy, especially when towing, in addition to transmission issues.
- 2020–2021: At least one owner reported needing major repairs, including a new transmission and catalytic converters, on a 2021 model.
- 2022–2024: These model years have recalls related to brake lines potentially becoming damaged by other components, which can lead to a brake fluid leak and reduced braking function.
What to look for
- 2015: This model year is often recommended as a more reliable option within the third generation.
- 2020: This year is highlighted as one of the more dependable models.
- 2018–2024: Fourth-generation models generally have higher reliability ratings, though some specific years within this range still had reported issues.
Are Ford Expeditions good for towing?
The 2025 Ford Expedition's maximum towing capacity is 9,600 pounds, achievable with either version of the engine and four-wheel drive. The rating drops to 9,000 pounds with the extended-length Expedition Max model.
