Since the beginning of the 20th century, Ford has built cars that stand the test of time, but the reason for the automaker’s popularity is its ability to evolve to meet the ever-changing needs and preferences of drivers, from families looking for a sleek SUV to those seeking off-road adventure—or, in some cases, both. If you’re looking for a great SUV that also has towing strength, consider a used Ford for sale.
Ford’s SUVs combine versatility, eye-catching style, and modern technology in a diverse lineup of models that can suit every budget and lifestyle. Families gravitate toward SUVs for their roomy interiors, friendly features, and strong powertrains. But that’s not all they do, as Ford’s SUVs are as much made for the open road as they are for striking out on the path less traveled. Of particular note is this brand’s powerful engines and its dedication to giving its SUVs enviable towing capabilities.
At LaFontaine Ford St. Clair, we take the time to understand what you wish for and demand in a used Ford SUV. Do you want a family-oriented SUV that looks great while driving the kids to school? Do you want something strong enough to haul trailers, boats, or RVs when you get the urge for adventure? Ford’s SUVs excel in both areas. Come by our dealership and check out our robust stock of used Ford SUVs; we’re certain that you’ll drive away satisfied.
Big Capability in a Compact SUV
Just because an SUV is classified as “compact” doesn’t mean it lacks roominess, ability, or performance. Recently introduced as the smaller companion to its namesake, the subcompact Bronco Sport has the same rugged styling and off-road-readiness as the midsize Bronco, but it also has some considerable towing strength.
Using the 2023 model as an example, it came standard with a 1.5L turbocharged I-3, with a 2.0L turbocharged I-4 available (or standard on higher trims). The former begat 181 hp and 190 lb-ft of torque, able to tow 2,000 lbs when properly equipped. The latter powertrain made 250 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque while being able to tow 2,200 lbs. This increased output is even more valuable when you consider that every Bronco Sport comes standard with four-wheel drive, meaning that you can cart a toy trailer or small boat into the boonies or right to the shoreline.
With seating for five, the Bronco Sport can comfortably house a small family. Its generous array of connectivity and safety features makes it an ideal choice for families. Of course, it also gets great fuel economy figures, with the 2023 model making 26 MPG combined with the standard powertrain or 23 MPG combined with the larger engine.
One size up is the Ford Edge, a compact SUV more designed for comfort and paved travel than for off-road ability and towing. Nevertheless, it still offers some great towing stats for a vehicle of its size. The Escape had four powertrain options in 2023, emphasizing its focus on the asphalt while giving more choice to prospective buyers.
The base powertrain was a 1.5L turbocharged I-3 that made 180 hp and 199 lb-ft of torque, with a fuel economy of up to 30 MPG combined and a towing capability of up to 2,000 lbs. The second powertrain option was a 2.0L turbocharged I-4 that made 250 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque, with standard all-wheel drive; this setup resulted in a whopping 3,500-lb towing strength, which is incredible for a compact SUV, enabling it to tow larger boats, campers, and trailers, or even a second vehicle!
The Escape also had two hybrid powertrain options: a 2.5L I-4 with electric motors, in the traditional hybrid form (relying on regenerative braking to recharge the battery), and a 2.5L I-4 PHEV with electric motors and a larger 14.4-kWh battery pack (requiring the driver to plug into an outlet to recharge the battery). Both hybrid options got at least 39 MPG combined and a 1,500-lb towing capacity; this made them less strong, sure, but if you cherish fuel efficiency and only need a minor degree of towing clout, an Escape Hybrid could be the perfect fit.
More Strength With a Midsize SUV
When it comes to Ford’s SUVs, the iconic Bronco leads the pack. Introduced in 1966, the first-generation Bronco was designed for off-roading. The brand discontinued this midsize legend in 1996 but reintroduced it in 2021 to the delight of many. Once again, it is pleasing adventurers who want to take their family where roads don’t go.
The 2023 model had two engine options: a 2.3L turbocharged I-4 and a 2.7L turbocharged V6. The former made 300 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque, while the latter made 330 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, yet both were four-wheel-drive exclusive, begat 20 MPG combined, and could tow 3,500 lbs, so we recommend finding a used model with the latter powertrain.
If you want something even more potent, though, look for a Bronco Raptor, a high-performance variant of this off-road champion. With a 3.0L turbocharged V6, the 2023 Bronco Raptor made 418 hp, 440 lb-ft of torque, and 4,500 lbs of towing strength. Of course, you’ll want to note that these boosted output stats also came with a higher price tag—about $15k more than the highest trim of the regular Bronco.
For a capable midsize SUV that focuses on the road, see the Ford Edge, a nimble two-row cruiser that had two powertrain options in 2023: a 2.0L turbocharged I-4, making 250 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.7L turbocharged V6, making 335 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque. Both came strictly in all-wheel drive and brought a familiar 3,500-lb towing capacity. This model focused more on comfort and technology than ruggedness, but it still had incredible capabilities.
If you want a midsize SUV with an even greater focus on pavement performance, consider a Ford Explorer, which builds upon the Edge by adding a third row of seats to accommodate larger families. This Ford bestseller had three powertrain options for 2023: a 2.3L turbocharged I-4, a 3.0L turbocharged V6, and a hybrid 3.3L V6 that was specifically available for the Limited and Platinum trims.
The turbocharged I-4 begat 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, with respectable fuel economy figures for its size and an incredible 5,300 lbs of towing strength when properly equipped. The turbocharged V6 did even better, making 400 hp, 415 lb-ft of torque, and 5,600 lbs of towing strength, at the cost of slightly worse fuel efficiency. The hybrid V6 setup had the best fuel efficiency, by far, but with stats closer to the I-4: 318 hp, 322 lb-ft of torque, and 5,000 lbs of towing strength.
Not only will any pre-owned Explorer house more passengers than any Edge or Bronco, but it will have greater towing capabilities, too. If you need to move a small RV, a medium-sized boat, or a large trailer or camper, you’ll want to look at our selection of used Ford Explorers.
Perform Huge Feats in a Full-Size SUV
Buyers seeking the most space possible in an SUV should check out the full-size Expedition. This nameplate debuted in 1997 to replace the discontinued Bronco, but it gained an audience of its own by seating more people and focusing on delivering a sophisticated ride. Given its cavernous interior and generous amenities, this is the ideal Ford SUV for large families.
In 2023, the Expedition had two incredible powertrain options: a 3.5L turbocharged V6 and a high-output version of that same setup. The former got up to 400 hp and up to 480 lb-ft of torque, while the latter boosted output to 440 hp and 510 lb-ft of torque. With an astounding towing capacity of 9,300 lbs, either powertrain could support a large boat, a horse trailer, or a mammoth RV. With its lavish trim lineup, too, you could get not only a potent powerhouse but an opulent caravan.
Your Next Used SUV Is Waiting for You
At LaFontaine Ford St. Clair, we host the best used Fords you can buy. SUVs like the Bronco Sport, Escape, Bronco, Edge, Explorer, and Expedition are economical, spacious, versatile, and capable of towing mighty loads, on par with some pickup trucks! Whether for work, play, or both, these Ford SUVs will take you wherever you’re going in style and comfort, and they’ll bring your trailers, boats, or campers behind them.
Our used vehicles are priced competitively because we want to make the best deal for you and your family, and we’ll craft an affordable financing plan to fit your budget. Come in and browse our used Ford SUV selection to find your next great ride. Our team will answer any questions you have and set you up with a test drive of your favorite models.
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