Here's How I'd Spec the 2026 Ford F-150 to Maximize Towing Capacity

The Ford F-150 is downright intimidating. No, not from an aesthetic point of view, though some of them are pretty mean-looking. Nor from a drivability standpoint. Instead, it's the truck's dazzling list of options and configurations that make deciding which F-150 to buy difficult. This is especially true if you're looking to tow with a new F-150. The brand's online configurator doesn't disclose maximum tow figures directly, so we did the research to find out how best to spec an F-150 to maximize the truck's towing capacity.

F-150 Towing Figures

The F-150 has a dazzling list of trims and options, all of which can influence how the truck tows and how much it's capable of hauling. Here, you'll find a breakdown of each F-150's towing and payload capacities. Given the staggering number of configurations, we limited details to solely those that influence towing capacity. For example, cab configurations and bed configurations don't matter here. Any included towing packages within trims were also omitted if not explicitly mentioned

The Cheapest Way To Tow The Most In A New F-150

The XLT is the cheapest way into the most towing capacity in the 2026 F-150 lineup. To maximize value, you'll need to option the XLT with Ford's SuperCab, which is really just a punched-up term for the short four-door cab. Ford also offers a SuperCrew cab (a regular ol' cab with four regular ol' seats) for a slight upcharge. Regardless, the SuperCab is the most affordable option, starting at $44,695 MSRP.

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The Best Towing Options On The 2026 F-150

In order to maximize towing capacity, the F-150 needs its 3.5-liter V6 engine. Funny enough, the largest available engine, the F-150's 5.0-liter V8, doesn't offer the highest possible towing capacity. Regardless, the V6 is a pricey option at $2,220. For your money, you'll get some serious power: 382 horsepower and a healthy 500 lb-ft of torque paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Ford offers either rear-wheel or four-wheel drive with this powertrain, and opting for the latter will add almost $4,000 to the F-150's final price.

These pricey options aside, one final item is needed to maximize the towing experience in the new F-150: the $1,010 Tow/Haul package, which adds an integrated trailer brake controller for easy hauling. It also adds the V6's 3.55 non-limited-slip axle ratio, but you can also order one with a locker for an additional $470, just in case you live somewhere with some snowy winters.

How Much Is It?

All told, a 4x4 F-150 XLT SuperCab with zero unnecessary options will run you $55,215, including destination.

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This story was originally published May 30, 2026 at 8:15 AM.