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 63,609 nationwide Explorer listings starting at $700.

ZIP:

Own this car?

Share your experience with others.

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    OJ
    Reputation
    30,850
  • #2
    TransAm77
    Reputation
    7,790
  • #3
    Gene Arnett
    Reputation
    7,280
View All

Know more, shop wisely

Search

Related Models For Sale

Used Ford Expedition
810 Great Deals out of 22,882 listings starting at $675
Used Ford F-150
5,866 Great Deals out of 131,415 listings starting at $1,100
Used Chevrolet Tahoe
1,024 Great Deals out of 20,241 listings starting at $1,995
Used Jeep Grand Cherokee
2,536 Great Deals out of 49,679 listings starting at $624
Used Toyota Highlander
1,185 Great Deals out of 18,017 listings starting at $675
Used Dodge Durango
792 Great Deals out of 21,014 listings starting at $550
Used Ford Edge
1,397 Great Deals out of 41,226 listings starting at $975
Used Honda Pilot
931 Great Deals out of 28,808 listings starting at $775
Used Toyota 4Runner
1,131 Great Deals out of 18,663 listings starting at $1,800
Used Chevrolet Traverse
851 Great Deals out of 12,136 listings starting at $600
Used GMC Acadia
1,041 Great Deals out of 13,532 listings starting at $650
Used Ford Escape
2,288 Great Deals out of 45,503 listings starting at $475
Used GMC Yukon
653 Great Deals out of 11,280 listings starting at $1,950
Used Kia Telluride
315 Great Deals out of 15,900 listings starting at $14,995
Used Chevrolet Silverado 1500
4,000 Great Deals out of 131,894 listings starting at $500

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.