Ford Ranger Towing Capacity: 2025 Specs, Engines, And Payload
The Ford Ranger towing capacity has long been one of its biggest selling points, giving midsize truck buyers the muscle to haul like a full-size without the bulk. For 2025, Ford has fine-tuned the Ranger’s performance and versatility, making it capable of towing up to 7,500 pounds when properly equipped. That’s enough to pull a mid-size camper, a loaded car trailer, or even a decent-sized boat—without sacrificing everyday drivability. And for drivers who don’t need max towing but want rugged off-road ability, the Raptor variant offers a still-respectable 5,510-pound rating.
Key Points:
- Max towing: 7,500 lbs (2.3L & 2.7L EcoBoost with Tow Package)
- Raptor towing: 5,510 lbs (3.0L EcoBoost)
- Max payload: Up to 1,905 lbs
- Tow Package highly recommended for max rating
Ford Ranger Towing Capacity by Model Year
2025 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 2025 lineup offers three engines with different towing and payload ratings:
Table 1 – 2025 Ford Ranger Towing & Payload Specs
| Engine & Drivetrain | Horsepower | Torque | Max Payload | Max Towing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.3L EcoBoost® (4×2) | 270 hp | 310 lb-ft | 1,805 lbs | 7,500 lbs |
| 2.3L EcoBoost® (4×4) | 270 hp | 310 lb-ft | 1,711 lbs | 7,500 lbs |
| 2.7L EcoBoost® | 315 hp | 400 lb-ft | 1,542 lbs | 7,500 lbs |
| 3.0L EcoBoost® (Raptor) | 405 hp | 430 lb-ft | 1,375 lbs | 5,510 lbs |
Even the base 2.3L EcoBoost delivers full towing potential, but remember—without the available Trailer Tow Package, you’ll be limited to about 3,500 lbs with a bumper hitch. The Raptor’s reduced towing is intentional; it’s tuned for high-speed off-road performance rather than maximum hauling.
2023–2024 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 2023 and 2024 Rangers with the 2.3L EcoBoost match the 7,500-lb towing mark when paired with a Class IV hitch and 4/7 pin connector. Payloads reach up to 1,905 lbs, making these model years just as capable for work and play as the latest versions.
2022 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
For 2022, all trims equipped with the tow package also hit the 7,500-lb ceiling. Without it, they drop closer to 3,500 lbs—enough for a small utility trailer or lightweight boat.
Factors That Affect Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
Your truck’s rating isn’t just about engine power. These factors can shift capacity:
- Drivetrain – 4×4 variants can have slightly lower payload ratings due to added weight.
- Tow Package vs. bumper hitch – The factory tow package unlocks the highest ratings.
- Payload weight – Every pound in the bed reduces how much you can tow safely.
- Trim choice – Off-road-focused trims like the Raptor trade towing for suspension travel and chassis reinforcement.
Towing Features That Make the Ford Ranger Stand Out
Standard and Available Towing Technologies
Ford’s towing tech makes life easier for weekend warriors and pros alike:
- Tow/Haul Mode adjusts shift points and adds engine braking downhill.
- Pro Trailer Backup Assist saves up to 10 trailer profiles and simplifies reversing.
- Trailer Light Check via FordPass app means no more “hop out and check” guessing.
- Integrated Trailer Brake Controller syncs trailer brakes with the truck’s for smoother stops.
Real-World Driver Impressions
Owners report the Ranger feels stable with loads up to its max rating—especially with the 2.7L EcoBoost’s extra torque. One Illinois contractor told FordMasterX.com that he tows a fully loaded dual-axle landscaping trailer daily, praising the truck’s ability to “pull strong up highway on-ramps without hunting for gears.”
How the Ford Ranger Compares to Rivals
Table 2 – Midsize Truck Towing Capacity Comparison
| Model | Max Towing | Max Payload |
|---|---|---|
| Ford Ranger (2025) | 7,500 lbs | 1,905 lbs |
| Toyota Tacoma (2025) | 6,800 lbs | 1,685 lbs |
| Chevy Colorado (2025) | 7,700 lbs | 1,684 lbs |
| Nissan Frontier (2025) | 6,720 lbs | 1,610 lbs |
The Ranger matches or beats most direct competitors in towing, while also offering a higher payload than many.
Ford Ranger Towing Tips & Best Practices
- Verify your truck’s GVWR and GCWR before hitching.
- Distribute trailer weight evenly for stability.
- Use a weight-distribution hitch for heavier loads.
- Maintain your brakes, cooling system, and tires for safe towing.
Ford Ranger Towing Capacity FAQs
Can a Ford Ranger tow 7,500 lbs without a tow package?
No. Without the tow package, the Ranger is generally limited to about 3,500 lbs with a bumper hitch.
How much can a Ford Ranger Raptor tow?
The 2025 Ranger Raptor is rated for 5,510 lbs due to its off-road performance tuning.
What is the payload capacity of the Ford Ranger?
Depending on trim and drivetrain, the Ranger’s payload ranges from about 1,375 to 1,905 lbs.
Can a Ford Ranger tow a travel trailer?
Yes, many midsize travel trailers fall under the 7,500-lb limit, but always check your trailer’s weight when loaded.
