How to Choose the Best 2026 Ford for Your Towing Needs

When it comes to towing, choosing the right vehicle matters. Whether you're hauling a boat to Pickwick Lake, towing work equipment across Shelby County, or pulling a camper for a weekend trip, the 2026 Ford lineup at Landers Ford offers a range of trucks and SUVs engineered for strength, stability, and confidence.

Ford continues to lead the industry in towing capability thanks to high-strength steel frames, advanced turbocharged and diesel engines, and smart trailering technology. Below is a breakdown of the 2026 Ford models and their confirmed towing capacities to help you find the right match.

 

2026 Ford F-150: The Everyday Towing Champion

 

The Ford F-150 remains one of the most versatile towing trucks available. For 2026, it continues to offer multiple engine choices tailored to different towing needs.

Available powertrains include:
 - 2.7L EcoBoost® V6
 - 5.0L Ti-VCT V8
 - 3.5L EcoBoost® V6
 - 3.5L PowerBoost® Full Hybrid V6

Maximum towing capacity:
 - Up to 13,500 pounds when properly equipped (3.5L EcoBoost® V6)

PowerBoost Hybrid Output:
 - Up to 430 horsepower
 - 570 lb-ft of torque

The F-150 also offers Pro Trailer Backup Assistâ„¢, Pro Trailer Hitch Assistâ„¢, and available Pro Power Onboardâ„¢ with up to 7.2 kW of exportable power, turning your truck into a mobile generator.

Best for: Boat owners, contractors, and drivers who want serious towing capability without stepping into heavy-duty territory.

 

2026 Ford Super Duty: Maximum Strength for Heavy Loads

 

For serious hauling, the 2026 Ford Super Duty (F-250 and F-350) delivers best-in-class capability.

Available engine options:
 - 6.8L V8 Gas Engine
 - 7.3L V8 Gas Engine
 - 6.7L Power Stroke® Turbo Diesel
 - 6.7L High-Output Power Stroke® Turbo Diesel

High-Output Diesel Specs:
 - Up to 500 horsepower
 - Up to 1,200 lb-ft of torque

Maximum towing capacity:
 - Up to 40,000 pounds (gooseneck towing, properly equipped)
 - Up to 8,000+ pounds of payload capacity depending on configuration

The Super Duty also features Trailer Navigation, Onboard Scales with Smart Hitch, and advanced towing camera systems for added safety.

Best for: Commercial trailers, heavy equipment, large fifth-wheel campers, and job-site demands.

2026 Ford Ranger: Midsize Muscle


If you want serious towing power without a full-size footprint, the 2026 Ford Ranger delivers.

Engine:
 - 2.3L EcoBoost® Turbocharged I-4

Output:
 - 270 horsepower
 - 310 lb-ft of torque

Maximum towing capacity:
 - Up to 7,500 pounds when properly equipped

The Ranger balances towing strength with easier maneuverability, making it ideal for Memphis drivers who navigate both highways and tighter urban areas.

Best for: Smaller boats, utility trailers, and light recreational hauling.

2026 Ford Maverick: Efficient and Capable


The Ford Maverick continues to offer strong value and efficiency in a compact truck platform.

Standard Hybrid Powertrain:
 - 2.5L Hybrid
 - 191 combined horsepower
 - Up to 37 mpg combined

Available 2.0L EcoBoost® Engine:
 - 250 horsepower
 - 277 lb-ft of torque

Maximum towing capacity:
 - Up to 4,000 pounds (with available 4K Tow Package)

Best for: Small trailers, jet skis, and light weekend gear.

2026 Ford Expedition: SUV Towing Strength


If you need three-row seating and strong towing power, the Expedition remains a top choice.

Engine:
 - 3.5L EcoBoost® V6

Output:
 - Up to 440 horsepower (high-output versions)

Maximum towing capacity:
 - Up to 9,300 pounds when properly equipped

Best for: Families who need space and strong towing in one vehicle.

2026 Ford Explorer: Midsize SUV Capability


The Explorer continues to serve as a versatile midsize SUV option.

Engine options include:
 - 2.3L EcoBoost® (approximately 300 horsepower)
 - 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 (up to 400 horsepower)

Maximum towing capacity:
 - Up to 5,600 pounds when properly equipped

Best for: Mid-size campers, small boats, and recreational trailers.

2026 Ford F-150 Lightning: Electric Towing Performance

 

Ford's all-electric pickup remains part of the towing conversation.

Dual Motor Output:
 - Up to 580 horsepower
 - 775 lb-ft of torque

Maximum towing capacity:
 - Up to 10,000 pounds when properly equipped

The Lightning delivers instant torque and smooth acceleration while maintaining serious capability.

Best for: Drivers ready for electric performance with real towing strength.

 

How to Choose the Right Ford for Your Towing Needs

When deciding which 2026 Ford model is right for you, consider:

- What is the total weight of your trailer and cargo?
- Will you tow occasionally or frequently?
- Do you need maximum payload as well as towing?
- Is fuel efficiency a priority?
- Do you prefer a truck or SUV platform?

At Landers Ford, our team can walk you through towing packages, axle ratios, engine differences, and trailer compatibility to ensure you choose the safest and most capable option.

Whether you need heavy-duty strength, hybrid efficiency, or midsize flexibility, the 2026 Ford lineup delivers advanced towing technology and proven capability for life in the Mid-South.