Wind Resistance and Mileage

10

Asked by EnvisioningMoore Dec 03, 2019 at 02:26 AM about the Ford Explorer

Question type: General

I am looking, to purchase a Ford Explorer
(AWD, 3.5L Ecoboost V6) and a RV Trailer (20
foot; 3K Lb Curb, about 3.6K Lb loaded).  
The engine torque seems, to handle the
grade requirements.  I have two questions.
1. How can I include wind resistance, in the
calculations?
2. For “flat land”, can I estimate the mileage?  
Is there a rule-of-thumb?  Are there
documented towing tests?
I thank you.

3 Answers

I don't know of anyway to calculate the trailer aerodynamics and the fuel economy. I would expect around 15 mpg if you don't drive too fast.

10

I thank you. This proves, to be another area, of buyer beware. In reference, to a different manufacturer and smaller SUV, the salesman, even, asked me, if I were really going, to tow. Though the vehicle had a good tow rating, of 5K Lb, he told me that it might tow 4K Lb but only, on the flats. The manufacturers give grand ratings but withhold the reality, of operation, at the rating. Being a mechanical engineer and I designed light/heavy duty mobile equipment, it would be interesting, to test and document vehicles, at rated loads. Especially, tow vehicles. Again, I thank you, for your input.

1 people found this helpful.

If you want a serious tow vehicle do your self a favor and get a pickup such as a F150 or F250. 99% percent of salesmen do not have a clue and the other 1% are full of poop. I have never seen anyone spec fuel economy with a load. There are too many variables to get a meaningful answer. Best bet is to try vehicle specific forums to see what other owners say.

Your Answer:

Explorer

Looking for a Used Explorer in your area?

CarGurus has 2,231 nationwide Explorer listings starting at $7,990.

Postal Code:

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    OJ
    Reputation
    30,840
  • #2
    TransAm77
    Reputation
    7,790
  • #3
    Gene Arnett
    Reputation
    7,280
View All

Find great deals from top-rated dealers

Search

Related Models For Sale

Used Ford Expedition
18 Great Deals out of 682 listings starting at $5,650
Used Ford F-150
363 Great Deals out of 12,802 listings starting at $599
Used Chevrolet Tahoe
18 Great Deals out of 859 listings starting at $9,980
Used Jeep Grand Cherokee
121 Great Deals out of 3,487 listings starting at $4,950
Used Toyota Highlander
37 Great Deals out of 814 listings starting at $8,495
Used Dodge Durango
65 Great Deals out of 1,994 listings starting at $7,999
Used Ford Edge
82 Great Deals out of 3,499 listings starting at $2,900
Used Honda Pilot
33 Great Deals out of 792 listings starting at $2,495
Used Toyota 4Runner
20 Great Deals out of 517 listings starting at $6,825
Used Chevrolet Traverse
33 Great Deals out of 664 listings starting at $4,995
Used GMC Acadia
22 Great Deals out of 684 listings starting at $4,995
Used Kia Telluride
19 Great Deals out of 281 listings starting at $28,500
Used GMC Yukon
17 Great Deals out of 941 listings starting at $5,998
Used Ford Escape
140 Great Deals out of 3,929 listings starting at $3,995
Used Nissan Pathfinder
40 Great Deals out of 1,713 listings starting at $190

Content submitted by Users is not endorsed by CarGurus, does not express the opinions of CarGurus, and should not be considered reviewed, screened, or approved by CarGurus. Please refer to CarGurus Terms of Use. Content will be removed if CarGurus becomes aware that it violates our policies.