Ford Bronco Towing Capacity (All Years 2021-2026)

Rebbeca Jones

Rebbeca Jones

The Ford Bronco (sixth generation) was reintroduced in 2021 after a 25-year production gap, offering body-on-frame construction across two-door and four-door body styles. The lineup spans multiple trim levels, including standard models, the Everglades, and the high-performance Raptor variant, each carrying distinct towing specifications.

This guide covers Ford Bronco towing capacity by model year from 2021 through 2026. Specifications vary depending on engine, transmission type, door configuration, and factory-installed packages. Exceeding manufacturer-rated towing limits can overstress the engine, transmission, and braking systems, reducing vehicle stability and increasing stopping distances.

Ford Bronco Towing Capacity

2026 Ford Bronco Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options2.3L EcoBoost I4; 2.7L EcoBoost V6; 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (Raptor)
Drivetrain4WD (standard across all configurations)
Maximum Towing Capacity4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) – Raptor; 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) – Standard
Conventional Towing Capacity3,500 lbs (1,588 kg)
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityN/A
Maximum Payload Capacity1,000 – 1,500 lbs (454 – 680 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)8,500 – 8,980 lbs (3,856 – 4,073 kg) – 2.3L; 8,980 – 9,120 lbs (4,073 – 4,137 kg) – 2.7L; 10,650 lbs (4,831 kg) – 3.0L Raptor
Tongue Weight Limit350 lbs (159 kg) – Standard; 450 lbs (204 kg) – Raptor
Hitch ClassClass IV
Factory Tow PackageOptional (Trailer Tow Package)

The 2026 Ford Bronco reaches a maximum towing capacity of 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) when equipped with the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 in the Raptor configuration. Standard trims powered by the 2.3L EcoBoost I4 or 2.7L EcoBoost V6 maintain a 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) maximum towing capacity when properly equipped. The Raptor’s GCWR of 10,650 lbs (4,831 kg) and 450 lb tongue weight limit provide greater flexibility for heavy trailer loads.


2025 Ford Bronco Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options2.3L EcoBoost I4; 2.7L EcoBoost V6; 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (Raptor only)
Drivetrain4WD (standard across all configurations)
Maximum Towing Capacity4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) – Raptor; 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) – Standard
Conventional Towing Capacity3,500 lbs (1,588 kg)
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityN/A
Maximum Payload Capacity1,000 – 1,500 lbs (454 – 680 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)8,500 – 8,980 lbs (3,856 – 4,073 kg) – 2.3L; 8,980 – 9,120 lbs (4,073 – 4,137 kg) – 2.7L; 10,650 lbs (4,831 kg) – 3.0L Raptor
Tongue Weight Limit350 lbs (159 kg) – Standard; 450 lbs (204 kg) – Raptor
Hitch ClassClass IV
Factory Tow PackageOptional (Trailer Tow Package)

The 2025 Ford Bronco delivers a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) across nearly all standard trims when properly equipped. Models fitted with the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 under the Raptor trim achieve the highest trailer weight rating of 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg). The optional Trailer Tow Package, which includes a Class IV hitch receiver and a seven-pin wiring harness, is required to reach maximum towing limits on applicable trims.


2024 Ford Bronco Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options2.3L EcoBoost I4; 2.7L EcoBoost V6; 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (Raptor only)
Drivetrain4WD (standard across all configurations)
Maximum Towing Capacity4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) – Raptor; 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) – Standard
Conventional Towing Capacity3,500 lbs (1,588 kg)
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityN/A
Maximum Payload Capacity1,000 – 1,500 lbs (454 – 680 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)8,500 – 8,980 lbs (3,856 – 4,073 kg) – 2.3L; 8,980 – 9,120 lbs (4,073 – 4,137 kg) – 2.7L; 10,650 lbs (4,831 kg) – 3.0L Raptor
Tongue Weight Limit350 lbs (159 kg) – Standard; 450 lbs (204 kg) – Raptor
Hitch ClassClass IV
Factory Tow PackageOptional (Trailer Tow Package)

The 2024 Ford Bronco maintains a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) for standard configurations equipped with the 2.3L EcoBoost I4 or 2.7L EcoBoost V6. The Raptor trim with the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 continues to lead the lineup at 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) maximum trailer weight. Towing capacity for the 2.3L engine ranges from 3,080 to 3,500 lbs (1,397 to 1,588 kg) depending on door count and installed equipment.


2023 Ford Bronco Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options2.3L EcoBoost I4; 2.7L EcoBoost V6; 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (Raptor only)
Drivetrain4WD (standard across all configurations)
Maximum Towing Capacity4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) – Raptor; 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) – Standard
Conventional Towing Capacity3,500 lbs (1,588 kg)
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityN/A
Maximum Payload Capacity1,000 – 1,500 lbs (454 – 680 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)8,500 – 8,980 lbs (3,856 – 4,073 kg) – 2.3L; 8,980 – 9,120 lbs (4,073 – 4,137 kg) – 2.7L; 10,650 lbs (4,831 kg) – 3.0L Raptor
Tongue Weight Limit350 lbs (159 kg) – Standard; 450 lbs (204 kg) – Raptor
Hitch ClassClass IV
Factory Tow PackageOptional (Trailer Tow Package)

The 2023 Ford Bronco offers a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) with either the 2.3L or 2.7L EcoBoost engine when the Trailer Tow Package is installed. The 3.0L EcoBoost V6 in the Raptor variant continues to provide the 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) peak towing rating. Towing capacity for the 2.3L configuration ranges from 3,240 to 3,500 lbs (1,470 to 1,588 kg) based on body style and installed options.


2022 Ford Bronco Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options2.3L EcoBoost I4; 2.7L EcoBoost V6; 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (Raptor only)
Drivetrain4WD (standard across all configurations)
Maximum Towing Capacity4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) – Raptor; 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) – Standard; 3,080 lbs (1,397 kg) – Everglades
Conventional Towing Capacity3,500 lbs (1,588 kg)
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityN/A
Maximum Payload Capacity1,000 – 1,500 lbs (454 – 680 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)8,500 – 8,980 lbs (3,856 – 4,073 kg) – 2.3L; 8,980 – 9,120 lbs (4,073 – 4,137 kg) – 2.7L; 10,650 lbs (4,831 kg) – 3.0L Raptor
Tongue Weight Limit350 lbs (159 kg) – Standard; 450 lbs (204 kg) – Raptor
Hitch ClassClass IV
Factory Tow PackageOptional (Trailer Tow Package); Standard on Raptor

The 2022 Ford Bronco introduced two new variants: the Raptor and the Everglades. The Raptor, powered exclusively by the 3.0L EcoBoost V6, enters with a maximum towing capacity of 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) and comes standard with an integrated trailer brake controller and heavy-duty hitch receiver. The Everglades trim, designed for water fording and extreme off-road use, carries a reduced maximum towing capacity of 3,080 lbs (1,397 kg) due to its factory winch and snorkel equipment adding to the vehicle’s overall loaded weight.


2021 Ford Bronco Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options2.3L EcoBoost I4; 2.7L EcoBoost V6
Drivetrain4WD (standard across all configurations)
Maximum Towing Capacity3,500 lbs (1,588 kg)
Conventional Towing Capacity3,500 lbs (1,588 kg)
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityN/A
Maximum Payload Capacity1,000 – 1,500 lbs (454 – 680 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)8,500 – 8,980 lbs (3,856 – 4,073 kg) – 2.3L; 8,980 – 9,120 lbs (4,073 – 4,137 kg) – 2.7L
Tongue Weight Limit350 lbs (159 kg)
Hitch ClassClass IV
Factory Tow PackageOptional (Trailer Tow Package)

The 2021 Ford Bronco marks the sixth generation’s debut, offering the 2.3L EcoBoost I4 and 2.7L EcoBoost V6 with a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) when properly equipped. Towing capacity on the 2.3L engine ranges from 3,320 to 3,500 lbs (1,506 to 1,588 kg), while the 2.7L configuration ranges from 3,220 to 3,500 lbs (1,461 to 1,588 kg), depending on body configuration and installed equipment. The optional Sasquatch Package adds electronic-locking front and rear axles, high-clearance suspension, and steel bumpers with tow hooks, which can support towing readiness in off-road environments.


Towing Equipment and Setup

Proper towing equipment is critical for reaching rated towing limits safely and protecting the vehicle’s drivetrain. Using the correct hitch class, wiring, and trailer control systems reduces the risk of trailer sway, brake fade, and transmission damage.

Tow Package

The Ford Bronco Trailer Tow Package includes a Class IV hitch receiver and a seven-pin wiring harness. This package is required on most standard trims to access maximum towing capacity. The Raptor trim includes towing equipment as standard, along with an integrated trailer brake controller and advanced cooling systems.

Trailer Brake Controller

A trailer brake controller activates the trailer’s electric brakes in proportion to the towing vehicle’s deceleration. For trailers exceeding 3,000 lbs (1,361 kg), a proportional trailer brake controller is strongly recommended. The Bronco Raptor includes an integrated trailer brake controller as standard.

Weight-Distributing Hitch

A weight-distributing hitch transfers tongue weight from the rear axle of the tow vehicle to the front axle and the trailer axles. This maintains front-axle steering control and reduces trailer sway on heavier loads. The Bronco’s tongue weight limit of 350 lbs (159 kg) on standard trims makes this device relevant for loads approaching the maximum trailer weight rating.

Transmission Cooler

Towing increases transmission fluid temperatures significantly. Extended towing near the maximum towing capacity limit may require an auxiliary transmission cooler to prevent fluid breakdown and component wear.

Tire Load Ratings

Each tire on the tow vehicle must carry its share of the GCWR. Verify that installed tires carry a load index sufficient for the vehicle’s GVWR plus the tongue weight added by the trailer. Using tires underrated for the combined load reduces traction and cornering stability.

Trailer Sway Control

The Ford Bronco includes trailer sway control as part of its electronic stability system when the Trailer Tow Package is installed. Trailer sway control detects oscillation and applies selective braking to individual wheels to reduce swaying.

Normal Towing vs. Heavy Towing Setup

Equipment ItemNormal Towing (Under 2,000 lbs)Heavy Towing (Over 3,000 lbs)
Hitch ClassClass II or IIIClass IV (required)
Trailer Brake ControllerNot requiredRequired
Weight-Distributing HitchNot requiredRecommended
Seven-Pin Wiring HarnessOptionalRequired
Transmission CoolerNot requiredRecommended
Upgraded TiresNot requiredVerify load rating

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum towing capacity of a Ford Bronco?

The maximum towing capacity of the Ford Bronco is 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg), achievable with the Raptor trim equipped with the 3.0L EcoBoost V6. Standard trims powered by the 2.3L EcoBoost I4 or 2.7L EcoBoost V6 reach a maximum of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) when properly equipped with the Trailer Tow Package. The Everglades trim has a reduced maximum towing capacity of 3,080 lbs (1,397 kg) due to factory-installed off-road equipment.

How much can a Ford Bronco tow with a tow package?

With the Trailer Tow Package installed, the Ford Bronco can tow up to 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) on standard trims. The tow package includes a Class IV hitch receiver and a seven-pin wiring harness, both of which are required to reach the rated towing limit. Without the tow package, maximum towing capacity drops and some towing functions become unavailable.

Does 4WD affect Ford Bronco towing capacity?

The Ford Bronco is a full-time 4WD vehicle, and all towing specifications apply to 4WD configurations. Selecting the appropriate drive mode, particularly 4H for highway towing, helps maintain drivetrain stability under trailer load. Operating in 4L while towing on paved roads can place unnecessary strain on the transfer case and should be avoided.

What trailer weight is safe for a Ford Bronco?

A safe trailer weight for the Ford Bronco falls within the manufacturer-rated maximum, which is 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) for standard trims and 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) for the Raptor. The actual safe limit in any specific load scenario depends on the number of passengers, cargo weight, and tongue load, all of which factor into the GCWR. Always subtract the vehicle’s loaded weight from the GCWR to determine the available trailer weight capacity before towing.

Do I need a weight-distributing hitch for a Ford Bronco?

The Ford Bronco’s tongue weight limit of 350 lbs (159 kg) on standard trims and 450 lbs (204 kg) on the Raptor generally does not require a weight-distributing hitch for trailers within rated limits. For trailers that place tongue weight near or above 300 lbs (136 kg), a weight-distributing hitch improves steering response and braking performance. Consult the owner’s manual for hitch and tongue weight specifications specific to your model year and engine configuration.

Which Ford Bronco trim has the highest towing capacity?

The Ford Bronco Raptor, available from 2022 onward, holds the highest towing capacity in the lineup at 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg). The Raptor’s 3.0L EcoBoost V6, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and advanced cooling systems, enables this higher towing limit compared to other trims. No other trim in the sixth-generation Bronco lineup exceeds the 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) maximum towing capacity.


Conclusion

The sixth-generation Ford Bronco, produced from 2021 through 2026, delivers a towing capacity range of 3,080 lbs (1,397 kg) to 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) depending on trim, engine, and installed equipment. Standard trims equipped with the 2.3L EcoBoost I4 or 2.7L EcoBoost V6 reach a consistent maximum of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) when the factory Trailer Tow Package is installed. The Raptor trim with the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 provides the highest trailer weight limit in the lineup at 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg), supported by a GCWR of 10,650 lbs (4,831 kg) and standard integrated towing equipment. The Everglades variant, while specialized for extreme off-road use, carries a reduced maximum towing capacity of 3,080 lbs (1,397 kg) due to factory-installed accessories. Engine selection, transmission type, door configuration, and tow package installation all directly affect the achievable towing limit on any given vehicle. Always verify towing specifications using the owner’s manual or the factory towing guide before towing heavy loads.

Rebbeca Jones
About the author
Rebbeca Jones
Rebbeca Jones leads the detailing department at CarsCounsel, bringing 12 years of experience in automotive aesthetics.

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