Country Dodge Oxford – Which SUV – 2026 Dodge Durango or Ford Explorer – tows more for family trips around Bel Air, MD?
Among three-row SUVs, towing capacity is a make-or-break factor for family adventures. If you are deciding between the Dodge Durango and Ford Explorer for trips around Bel Air, MD, the numbers and hardware tell a clear story. When properly equipped, Durango offers up to 8,700 lb of available towing capability, while Explorer is rated up to 5,000 lb. That difference opens the door to heavier boats, larger campers, and more flexibility as family needs grow.
It is not just the headline number. Durango’s available Tow ‘n Go Package pairs Bilstein® Active Damping high-performance suspension, SRT® wheels and tires, performance exhaust, and an Electronic Limited Slip Rear Axle with core trailering gear like a Class IV receiver hitch, an integrated trailer brake controller, and Trailer Sway Control. This integrated approach helps the SUV remain poised with a loaded trailer, especially on hilly routes or in crosswinds. Explorer counters with helpful driver-assistance technologies and an available off-road-oriented Tremor model, but it does not offer a factory integrated trailer brake controller, and its max tow rating remains 5,000 lb.
How does this play out in the real world? Families who tow dual-axle campers or heavier boats appreciate the extra margin Durango delivers. The integrated trailer brake controller allows you to fine-tune trailer braking from the cabin, smoothing stops and reducing stress on the SUV’s brakes. Trailer Sway Control selectively applies brake pressure and modulates throttle if sway is detected, working in tandem with the suspension and rear-drive-based layout to maintain composure. With multiple engine options—including a V6 and two HEMI® V8s—Durango also gives you the right power for the job.
Explorer offers a confident 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 and a 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 on performance trims, and its driver-assist suite is widely regarded. If your towing needs are light—think small utility trailers or compact pop-up campers—Explorer may cover the basics. But when your plans call for heavier gear or more frequent trailering, Durango’s premium hardware and higher rating provide room to grow.
Key considerations when choosing an SUV for towing include the trailer’s actual loaded weight, tongue weight (generally 10% to 15% of the trailer’s weight), and how often you plan to tow. Durango’s higher ceiling means you are less likely to brush against limits as family needs evolve. Factor in available Brembo® brakes, performance-oriented cooling, and configurable Drive Modes that include Tow, and the case for Durango strengthens further.
- Higher available tow rating opens more trailer options
- Integrated trailer brake controller aids smooth, confident stops
- Trailer Sway Control helps stabilize the trailer under crosswinds
- Bilstein® Active Damping enhances composure when loaded
- Class IV hitch and wiring are purpose-built for the task
Country Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM Oxford answers towing questions daily—from hitch classes and wiring to brake controller setup and weight distribution. Our team is serving Glen Mills, Bel Air, and Quarryville with test drives and side-by-side comparisons so you can feel the difference.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can the Explorer match the Durango’s 8,700-lb available tow rating?
No. Explorer is rated up to 5,000 lb when properly equipped. Durango’s available rating goes up to 8,700 lb, which accommodates heavier boats and campers.
Do I need a special package to reach Durango’s top tow number?
Yes. You will want a V8 model and the appropriate towing equipment. The available Tow ‘n Go Package adds key hardware like Bilstein® Active Damping, performance tires, an Electronic Limited Slip Rear Axle, Class IV hitch, and an integrated trailer brake controller.
What if I only tow a few times a year?
Durango remains a smart choice. The higher rating gives peace of mind, and features like Trailer Sway Control and Drive Modes (Tow, Snow, Sport, Track) help the SUV adapt to varying trips and conditions without compromise.
From choosing the right hitch to learning how to set trailer brake gain, our specialists will walk through every step. Schedule a tow-focused test drive and bring your questions—we will tailor recommendations to your trailer, route, and frequency of use. The right hardware, properly configured, makes every mile smoother and safer.
When you are ready to see the difference in person, plan a visit and feel how Durango’s chassis, braking, and power combine when the trailer is hooked up. It is the kind of confidence families rely on for day trips and cross-state vacations alike.
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