Chevrolet Traverse Towing Capacity (All Years 2009-2026)

The Chevrolet Traverse is a three-row, unibody crossover SUV produced by General Motors since the 2009 model year. Three distinct generations span the production timeline: the first generation ran from 2009 through 2017 with a naturally aspirated 3.6L V6, the second generation covered 2018 through 2023 with a revised 3.6L V6, and the third generation began with the 2024 model year using a turbocharged 2.5L four-cylinder engine.

This guide covers towing capacity by model year and configuration, including maximum trailer weight, tongue weight limits, payload capacity, and hitch class. Observing manufacturer-rated towing limits protects the engine, transmission, cooling system, and braking components under load.

2026 Chevrolet Traverse Towing Capacity

The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse delivers a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) across all trim levels, including LT, Z71, and AWD variants, with the V92 Trailering Package included as standard equipment. FWD and AWD configurations share the same trailer weight rating. Maintaining tongue weight within the 500 lb limit supports stable trailer tracking under varying road conditions.

2025 Chevrolet Traverse Towing Capacity

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse is rated to tow up to 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg), with the V92 Trailering Package included as standard equipment on every trim level, including LT, RS, Z71, and High Country. The package bundles the hitch, Hitch View camera, heavy-duty cooling system, and a 220-amp alternator. Both FWD and AWD drivetrain configurations carry identical maximum trailer weight ratings.

2024 Chevrolet Traverse Towing Capacity

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse introduces the third-generation platform, replacing the naturally aspirated 3.6L V6 with a turbocharged 2.5L I4 producing 328 hp and 326 lb-ft of torque. Maximum towing capacity reaches 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) with the optional V92 Trailering Package; models without it are limited to 1,500 lbs (680 kg). GM recommends avoiding towing during the first 500 miles (800 km) of vehicle operation to allow engine and drivetrain break-in.

2023 Chevrolet Traverse Towing Capacity

The 2023 Chevrolet Traverse is the final model year of the second generation, equipped with the 3.6L V6 LFY producing 310 hp and paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) applies to LT, RS, Premier, and High Country trims equipped with the V92 package, while the High Country received V92 as standard. All FWD and AWD configurations share the same maximum trailer weight rating with the package installed.

2022 Chevrolet Traverse Towing Capacity

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse carries identical powertrain and towing specifications to the 2020 and 2021 model years. The 3.6L V6 LFY mated to the 9-speed automatic supports a maximum trailer weight of 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) when the V92 package is installed. Baseline models without the package carry a 1,500 lb (680 kg) towing limit regardless of drivetrain.

2021 Chevrolet Traverse Towing Capacity

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse maintains the second-generation towing specifications established at the 2018 redesign. Maximum trailer weight is rated at 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) with the V92 Trailering Package on equipped trim levels. Models configured without the package, including the LS, are limited to 1,500 lbs (680 kg).

2020 Chevrolet Traverse Towing Capacity

The 2020 Chevrolet Traverse is rated at 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) maximum towing capacity with the V92 Trailering Package. Owner’s manual data for the 2020 model year reflects a revised GCWR compared to the 2018 and 2019 models, though the maximum trailer weight rating remained unchanged. Verify GCWR using the vehicle certification label located in the driver’s door jamb.

2019 Chevrolet Traverse Towing Capacity

The 2019 Chevrolet Traverse offers a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) on LT, RS, Premier, and High Country trims with the V92 package installed. The L and LS base trims did not offer the V92 option, capping their towing limit at 1,500 lbs (680 kg). GM recommends using trailer brakes on any trailer weighing over 1,000 lbs (454 kg) when towing with the Traverse.

2018 Chevrolet Traverse Towing Capacity

The 2018 Chevrolet Traverse launched the second generation with a revised 3.6L V6 LFY engine producing 310 hp, compared to 281 hp in the first generation. Maximum towing capacity with the V92 package is 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg), a reduction of 200 lbs from the first generation’s 5,200 lb limit. The baseline towing capacity without the package also decreased, from 2,000 lbs in the first generation to 1,500 lbs (680 kg).

2017 Chevrolet Traverse Towing Capacity

The 2017 Chevrolet Traverse delivers a maximum towing capacity of 5,200 lbs (2,358 kg) with the optional VR2 Trailering Equipment Package. The GCWR is 10,250 lbs (4,649 kg) for FWD models and 10,450 lbs (4,740 kg) for AWD models, with axle ratio set at 3.16 for both. The VR2 package was not available on the LS Base trim, which remains limited to 2,000 lbs (907 kg).

2016 Chevrolet Traverse Towing Capacity

The 2016 Chevrolet Traverse shares the same towing specifications as other late first-generation model years. Maximum towing capacity with the factory tow package is 5,200 lbs (2,358 kg), and AWD models are rated at a higher GCWR of 10,450 lbs (4,740 kg) compared to FWD at 10,250 lbs (4,649 kg). Tongue weight must not exceed 600 lbs (272 kg) or 15% of total trailer weight, whichever is lower.

2015 Chevrolet Traverse Towing Capacity

The 2015 Chevrolet Traverse carries the same powertrain and towing specifications as the entire 2009-2017 first generation. Maximum trailer weight of 5,200 lbs (2,358 kg) applies only when the factory tow package is installed. Models without the package are rated at 2,000 lbs (907 kg), which is sufficient for smaller trailers and utility loads.

2014 Chevrolet Traverse Towing Capacity

The 2014 Chevrolet Traverse is rated at 5,200 lbs (2,358 kg) maximum towing capacity with the factory tow package, confirmed by the owner’s manual. FWD configurations reach a maximum payload of up to 1,764 lbs (800 kg) depending on trim and options, while AWD models carry slightly less due to higher curb weight. The GCWR for AWD models is 10,450 lbs (4,740 kg).

2013 Chevrolet Traverse Towing Capacity

The 2013 Chevrolet Traverse, equipped with the 3.6L V6 LFX and 6-speed automatic, carries the same towing ratings as the broader 2012-2017 model years. Maximum towing capacity with the tow package reaches 5,200 lbs (2,358 kg) regardless of FWD or AWD configuration. Payload capacity varies based on installed options and should be confirmed on the vehicle certification label.

2012 Chevrolet Traverse Towing Capacity

The 2012 Chevrolet Traverse transitioned to the updated 3.6L V6 LFX engine, replacing the earlier LLT unit from 2009-2011. Towing ratings remained unchanged at 5,200 lbs (2,358 kg) with the factory tow package. The GVWR for FWD models is 6,411 lbs (2,908 kg).

2011 Chevrolet Traverse Towing Capacity

The 2011 Chevrolet Traverse uses the 3.6L V6 LLT engine, rated at 281 hp, mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Maximum towing capacity with the factory tow package is 5,200 lbs (2,358 kg). FWD models support a higher maximum payload of 1,689 lbs (766 kg) versus 1,444 lbs (655 kg) for AWD configurations due to the lower curb weight of front-wheel drive models.

2010 Chevrolet Traverse Towing Capacity

The 2010 Chevrolet Traverse provides a maximum towing capacity of 5,200 lbs (2,358 kg) with the factory tow package installed. FWD models have a curb weight of 4,790 lbs (2,173 kg) and GVWR of 6,411 lbs (2,908 kg), while AWD models have a curb weight of 5,066 lbs (2,298 kg) and GVWR of 6,459 lbs (2,930 kg). Payload decreases on AWD models due to the added drivetrain weight.

2009 Chevrolet Traverse Towing Capacity

The 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is the first model year of the nameplate, built on the Lambda platform with a 3.6L V6 LLT engine producing 281 hp. Maximum towing capacity with the factory tow package is 5,200 lbs (2,358 kg), and FWD models carry a maximum payload of 1,689 lbs (766 kg) with a curb weight of 4,790 lbs (2,173 kg). The towing package was a required addition to unlock the full trailer weight rating from the baseline 2,000 lbs (907 kg).

Towing Equipment and Setup Tips

Proper towing equipment is critical to reaching and safely using the Traverse’s rated towing limits. The factory V92 or VR2 Trailering Package is the single most important component. It increases the maximum trailer weight from 1,500 lbs to 5,000 lbs on second and third-generation models, a difference of 3,500 lbs.

Tow Package

The V92 Trailering Package includes the receiver hitch, heavy-duty cooling system, and higher-output alternator. On 2025 and 2026 models, the package is included as standard equipment on all trims. On 2024 and earlier models, the package must be selected at the time of vehicle order or purchase.

Trailer Brake Controller

Chevrolet recommends using trailer brakes on any trailer weighing over 1,000 lbs (454 kg). An integrated or aftermarket brake controller proportionally applies trailer brakes in coordination with vehicle braking. This reduces stopping distance and brake wear on the tow vehicle.

Weight-Distributing Hitch

A weight-distributing hitch is recommended when tongue weight approaches the 600 lb or 500 lb limit, depending on model year. It redistributes load across all axles, improving steering control and reducing rear sag. This setup is particularly important when towing travel trailers near the maximum trailer weight rating.

Tongue Weight Management

Tongue weight should represent 10 to 15 percent of the total trailer weight. Exceeding the tongue weight limit causes rear axle overload and reduces front axle steering control. Insufficient tongue weight causes trailer sway.

Transmission Cooler

The factory tow package on the Traverse includes a heavy-duty cooling system. Towing without this package risks elevated transmission fluid temperatures, particularly on grades or in hot ambient conditions. If the tow package is not present, an auxiliary transmission cooler is advisable before towing loads near the rated limit.

Trailer Sway Control

Electronic trailer sway control is available through the Traverse’s stability management system. This function applies selective braking to individual wheels to counteract trailer oscillation. Activate Tow/Haul mode when towing to optimize transmission shift logic and engine braking.

Tire Load Ratings

Verify that trailer tires are rated for the loaded trailer weight before towing. Underinflated or underrated trailer tires are a leading cause of blowouts during towing. Check the Traverse’s tire placard for the vehicle’s own tire inflation requirements under loaded conditions.

FAQs

What is the maximum towing capacity of a Chevrolet Traverse?

The maximum towing capacity of the Chevrolet Traverse is 5,200 lbs (2,358 kg) for the 2009-2017 first generation and 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) for the 2018-2026 models. In all cases, achieving maximum trailer weight requires the factory tow package to be installed. Without the package, towing limits drop significantly.

How much can a Chevrolet Traverse tow with a tow package?

With the factory V92 or VR2 Trailering Package, the Chevrolet Traverse can tow 5,200 lbs (2,358 kg) for model years 2009-2017 and 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) for model years 2018-2026. The tow package adds the receiver hitch, upgraded cooling, and higher-capacity alternator necessary to support the rated limit.

Does AWD affect Chevrolet Traverse towing capacity?

AWD does not affect the maximum trailer weight rating on the Chevrolet Traverse. Both FWD and AWD configurations carry the same towing capacity when equipped identically. However, AWD models have a higher curb weight, which reduces the available payload capacity slightly compared to FWD configurations.

What trailer weight is safe for a Chevrolet Traverse?

The safe trailer weight for a Chevrolet Traverse is within the manufacturer-rated maximum, accounting for passengers, cargo, and tongue weight. For any trailer over 1,000 lbs (454 kg), trailer brakes should be used. Actual usable towing capacity decreases as passenger count and cargo weight increase, since all of these add to the vehicle’s gross weight.

Do I need a weight-distributing hitch for a Chevrolet Traverse?

A weight-distributing hitch is not required at lower trailer weights, but becomes recommended when towing near the 5,000 lb or 5,200 lb maximum limit. It reduces rear-axle squat, improves front-wheel steering contact, and increases stability at highway speeds. The Traverse’s Class III hitch receiver is compatible with standard weight-distributing hitch systems.

What is the tongue weight limit for a Chevrolet Traverse?

The tongue weight limit for 2009-2017 Traverse models is 600 lbs (272 kg), representing 10 to 15 percent of the maximum trailer weight. For 2018-2026 models with a 5,000 lb tow rating, tongue weight should not exceed 500 lbs (227 kg). Exceeding tongue weight limits causes rear axle overload and reduces front-wheel steering effectiveness.

Conclusion

The Chevrolet Traverse has offered towing capacity ranging from 5,200 lbs (2,358 kg) in the 2009-2017 generation to 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) from 2018 onward, with the factory tow package required to reach these ratings in most model years. The 2024 introduction of the turbocharged 2.5L I4 engine maintained the 5,000 lb limit while changing the powertrain configuration. The V92 Trailering Package became standard equipment beginning with the 2025 model year, simplifying the equipment selection process for buyers.

Without the tow package, towing limits are 2,000 lbs (907 kg) for 2009-2017 models and 1,500 lbs (680 kg) for 2018-2024 models, which are insufficient for most trailers, boats, or campers requiring higher capacity. Engine configuration, drivetrain, passenger load, and installed options all affect the actual usable towing and payload capacity of any specific vehicle. Always verify towing specifications using the owner’s manual and the vehicle certification label before towing heavy loads.