Which F-150 has the most towing capacity?

The Ford F-150 with the highest towing capacity is the model equipped with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 and the Max Trailer Tow Package, capable of towing up to 14,000 pounds in current model years. Other F-150 variants offer strong towing figures but fall short of that top rating, such as the PowerBoost Hybrid and the 5.0-liter V8, while the all-electric F-150 Lightning tops out around 10,000 pounds. This article explains the figures, what affects them, and how to verify the right setup for your towing needs.

Top towing performer in the F-150 lineup

To identify the leader in towing, Ford calibrates each configuration with a specific trailer-towing setup. The peak figure in recent model years is achieved with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 paired with the Max Trailer Tow Package. This combination yields the highest official tow rating Ford offers for the F-150, though actual capacity depends on other factors such as payload, axle ratio, and whether a gooseneck or bumper hitch is used.

Engine options and their maximum tow figures

Below is a snapshot of the top-end towing figures for common F-150 configurations. These numbers reflect best-case ratings with the Max Trailer Tow Package and proper equipment; real-world results will vary by year and build.

• 3.5L EcoBoost V6 with Max Trailer Tow Package: Up to 14,000 lbs


• 5.0L V8 with Max Trailer Tow Package: Up to about 13,000 lbs


• 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid with Max Trailer Tow Package: Up to around 12,700 lbs


• Ford F-150 Lightning (electric) with Tow package options: Up to about 10,000 lbs

Note: Exact numbers depend on model year, cab/bed configuration, drivetrain (2WD vs 4WD), and the availability of the Max Tow/Max Trailer Tow Package. Always consult the official Ford specs for your specific build.

Other considerations when towing with an F-150

Even when a truck is rated for a high maximum tow figure, the real-world towing experience depends on several factors that influence safety and performance. The following list outlines key considerations you should account for before hitching up a heavy trailer.

• Payload and GVWR: The combined weight of passengers, cargo, and trailer tongue weight affects how much you can tow safely. Exceeding payload limits can reduce towing capacity and handling.


• Axle ratio: Different axle gears (for example 3.55 vs 3.73) influence towing performance, hill climbing, and fuel economy.


• Drive configuration: 4WD vs 2WD can affect available tow rating and braking characteristics, especially in adverse conditions.


• Trailer brakes and brake controller: Proper braking on the trailer is essential for safe stopping power and to maintain control during long tow runs.


• Hitch type and tongue weight: Gooseneck/buffer hitches and the distribution of tongue weight impact stability and overall towing capacity.


• Trailer length, load distribution, and suspension setup: The trailer’s weight distribution and how it’s loaded influence handling and capacity.

In short, the highest official rating belongs to the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 with the Max Tow Package, but achieving that figure requires the exact year, trim, and equipment specified by Ford, as well as proper loading and hitching practices. For those weighing near the limit, consulting a dealer and performing a practical test with a certified trailer is advised.

Summary

Among current Ford F-150 configurations, the top towing capacity is 14,000 pounds, achieved with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 and the Max Trailer Tow Package. Other powertrains offer strong but lower numbers (roughly 13,000 lbs for the 5.0L V8 and about 12,700 lbs for the PowerBoost Hybrid), while the all-electric F-150 Lightning typically tops out around 10,000 lbs. Always verify the exact specs for your model year and build, and ensure you respect payload, axle ratios, and hitch requirements to tow safely.

What is the best towing engine for the Ford F-150?

The best F-150 engine for towing is the 3.5L EcoBoost V6, which offers the highest maximum towing capacity of up to 14,000 pounds. For a more traditional V8 feel or higher payload capacity, the 5.0L Ti-VCT V8 is also a very capable option, while the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 is suitable for lighter-duty towing.
 
This video compares the towing performance of the 3.5L EcoBoost and 5.0L V8 engines: 54sGetty's GarageYouTube · May 28, 2024
For maximum towing capacity:

• 3.5L EcoBoost V6: This is the best choice for the heaviest loads, with a maximum capacity of up to 14,000 pounds.
  • It provides significant torque and is ideal for heavy towing jobs and work trucks. 

For a balance of power and payload:

• 5.0L Ti-VCT V8: This engine is a strong contender, often with the highest payload capacity, making it great for those who haul both a trailer and a lot of gear or passengers.
  • It offers a traditional V8 feel and sound, which is preferred by some drivers. 

For lighter towing and efficiency:

• 2.7L EcoBoost V6: This engine is a great all-around choice for those who do not need to tow the maximum weight, providing a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency.
  • It's suitable for lighter-duty towing needs. 

Additional factors

• To achieve the highest towing capacity with any engine, you may need specific configurations and packages, such as a SuperCrew cab, 4x4 drivetrain, and the Tow/Haul package. 
• The 3.5L PowerBoost full hybrid V6 also offers impressive towing capabilities (up to 12,700 lbs), along with the benefit of fuel savings and onboard power. 

Is V8 or V6 better for towing?

- Towing and hauling: V8s generally offer higher peak torque and towing capacity; choose a V8 if you anticipate frequent heavy towing (trailers, boats, work payloads near the truck's max ratings).

Is the F-150 stx or xlt better?

The F-150 STX is a more budget-friendly, sportier trim with features like a black grille and body-color bumpers, while the XLT is a higher-tier trim with a more classic chrome appearance and advanced features like a 360-degree camera, enhanced towing technology, and a hybrid engine option. The main differences are price, with the STX being cheaper, and features, where the XLT offers more advanced technology and comfort options. Your choice depends on your budget and need for advanced features versus a sportier, more basic package.
 
You can watch this video to learn how the STX and XLT F-150s differ in design and features: 56sJess FordYouTube · May 16, 2025
F-150 STX

• Price: More budget-friendly. 
• Style: Sporty, with a black and dark grey grille, body-color bumpers, and LED cornering lamps. 
• Interior: Includes a keyless ignition system and a premium sound system. 
• Towing: Comes standard with a Class IV trailer hitch. 

F-150 XLT

• Price: Higher price point due to more features. 
• Style: More classic and upscale, with a chrome grille, chrome bumpers, and chrome-like wheels (though a sport package is available). 
• Interior: Includes a 360-degree camera, 18-inch chrome-like PVD wheels, and a dual-zone automatic climate control system. 
• Performance: Can be equipped with the more powerful 3.5L PowerBoost Full Hybrid V6 engine and more advanced towing technology like Pro Trailer Backup Assist. 

This video compares the features and price differences between the STX and XLT F-150: 59sTCcustomsYouTube · Mar 26, 2020
Which one should you choose?

• Choose the STX if: You want a sportier look and a solid truck for daily driving or essential tasks without paying for more advanced features you don't need. 
• Choose the XLT if: You want more advanced technology, comfort options, and towing capabilities, and you are willing to invest more for these upgrades. 

Which Ford F-150 has the best towing capacity?

The best Ford F-150 for towing will have the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 engine, a SuperCrew cab, a 6.5-foot box, and a 4x4 layout; it will offer a towing capacity of 13,500 pounds1 (the highest-rated 2025 Ford F-150 towing capacity) while also having the largest cargo bed available for the SuperCrew cab.