The Buick Encore is a subcompact crossover SUV produced by General Motors under the Buick brand.
The Encore nameplate encompasses two distinct vehicles: the first-generation standard Encore (2013-2022) and the Encore GX (2020-present), which was introduced as a larger, separate model alongside the standard Encore.
This guide covers towing specifications by model year and configuration for both Encore variants.
The standard Encore and the Encore GX carry different towing ratings, and selecting the correct trim and drivetrain is critical to safe trailer operation.
Following manufacturer-rated towing limits protects the engine, transmission, braking systems, and chassis integrity.
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2026 Buick Encore GX Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | Turbocharged 1.2L I3 (LBP); Turbocharged 1.3L I3 (L3T) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 1,000 lbs (454 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 1,000 lbs (454 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to door placard |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 4,519 lbs (2,050 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 100 lbs (45 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class I (1-1/4″ receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Trailering Package, RPO code PDE) |
The 2026 Buick Encore GX offers a uniform maximum towing capacity of 1,000 lbs (454 kg) across all trim levels, drivetrains, and engine configurations.
This rating applies whether the vehicle is equipped with the standard 1.2L I3 or the optional 1.3L I3 engine, and holds for both FWD and AWD variants.
The optional Trailering Package (RPO code PDE) adds a factory-mounted frame hitch but does not increase the maximum trailer weight rating.
2025 Buick Encore GX Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | Turbocharged 1.2L I3 (LIH); Turbocharged 1.3L I3 (L3T) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 1,000 lbs (454 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 1,000 lbs (454 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to door placard |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 100 lbs (45 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class I (1-1/4″ receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Trailering Package, RPO code PDE, ~$725) |
The 2025 Buick Encore GX maintains a maximum towing capacity of 1,000 lbs (454 kg) regardless of engine, drivetrain, or trim level. All 2025 Encore GX units include standard trailering provisions (RPO code V92), which consist of a 4-wire electrical harness and 4-pin sealed connector at no added cost. The optional Trailering Package adds a dealer-installed frame-mounted hitch and is available on all trim grades including Preferred, Sport Touring, and Avenir.
2024 Buick Encore GX Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | Turbocharged 1.2L I3; Turbocharged 1.3L I3 |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 1,000 lbs (454 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 1,000 lbs (454 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to door placard |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 100 lbs (45 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class I (1-1/4″ receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Trailering Package, RPO code PDE, $695) |
The 2024 Buick Encore GX is rated for a maximum towing capacity of 1,000 lbs (454 kg) when equipped with the Trailering Package. The factory-installed frame-mounted hitch is part of the Trailering Package, priced at $695 for the 2024 model year. Engine and drivetrain selection do not alter the maximum trailer weight rating for this model year.
2023 Buick Encore GX Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | Turbocharged 1.2L I3; Turbocharged 1.3L I3 |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 1,000 lbs (454 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 1,000 lbs (454 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to door placard |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 100 lbs (45 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class I (1-1/4″ receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2023 Buick Encore GX carries a maximum towing capacity of 1,000 lbs (454 kg) across all configurations. A trailer hitch is not standard equipment and must be added through the factory Trailering Package or an aftermarket Class I hitch rated to the same trailer weight. Tongue weight must remain within the 100 lb (45 kg) limit regardless of total trailer weight.
2022 Buick Encore GX Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | Turbocharged 1.2L I3; Turbocharged 1.3L I3 |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 1,000 lbs (454 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 1,000 lbs (454 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to door placard |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 100 lbs (45 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class I (1-1/4″ receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2022 Buick Encore GX is rated for a maximum towing capacity of 1,000 lbs (454 kg) with the proper hitch installed. Aftermarket Class I hitches compatible with the 2020-2025 Encore GX provide a weight carrying capacity of up to 2,000 lbs GTW, but the vehicle’s manufacturer-rated maximum trailer weight of 1,000 lbs must not be exceeded. Tongue weight for the 2022 Encore GX is limited to 100 lbs (45 kg).
2021 Buick Encore GX Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | Turbocharged 1.2L I3; Turbocharged 1.3L I3 |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 1,000 lbs (454 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 1,000 lbs (454 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to door placard |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 100 lbs (45 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class I (1-1/4″ receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2021 Buick Encore GX carries the same towing specifications as the 2020 model year, with a maximum trailer weight of 1,000 lbs (454 kg). The towing capacity does not change between the 1.2L and 1.3L engine options for this model year. Proper hitch installation is required before any towing operation; the Encore GX does not ship with a receiver hitch as standard equipment.
2020 Buick Encore GX Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | Turbocharged 1.2L I3; Turbocharged 1.3L I3 |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 1,000 lbs (454 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 1,000 lbs (454 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to door placard |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 100 lbs (45 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class I (1-1/4″ receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2020 Buick Encore GX is the first model year of the GX variant and carries a towing capacity of 1,000 lbs (454 kg) across all configurations. This rating is consistent between both engine options and is unaffected by drivetrain selection. The 2020 Encore GX introduced the available Trailering Package, which remains the primary method for adding a factory-grade tow hitch to the vehicle.
2013-2022 Buick Encore (Standard Model) Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | Turbocharged 1.4L I4 (A14NET, 128 hp); Turbocharged 1.4L I4 (B14XFT, 153 hp, from 2016) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | Not rated for towing |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | Not rated for towing |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to door placard |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | N/A |
| Tongue Weight Limit | N/A |
| Hitch Class | N/A |
| Factory Tow Package | Not available |
The standard Buick Encore, produced from 2013 through 2022, is not rated for trailer towing in any configuration. General Motors’ owner’s manuals for all standard Encore model years explicitly state that the vehicle is not designed or approved for towing a trailer. Owners seeking towing capability within the Encore nameplate must select the Encore GX, which is a distinct and larger platform introduced for the 2020 model year with a 1,000 lb (454 kg) towing rating.
The standard Encore was powered throughout its production run by a turbocharged 1.4L inline-four engine, with a higher-output 153-hp variant added for the 2016 Sport Touring trim and above. The 6-speed automatic transmission was the sole gearbox offered across all years. Despite being a turbo-equipped platform, the standard Encore’s chassis, suspension, and brake systems were not certified by the manufacturer for trailer towing loads.
Towing Equipment and Setup
Proper towing equipment is as important as staying within the rated maximum trailer weight. For the Buick Encore GX, the following components are relevant for safe towing operations.
Tow Package
The Trailering Package (RPO code PDE or LDE depending on model year) adds a factory-matched frame-mounted hitch receiver to the Encore GX. Without this package, a dealer-installed or aftermarket Class I hitch rated to the manufacturer’s specifications must be used. Exceeding the vehicle’s 1,000 lb maximum trailer weight, regardless of hitch rating, is a violation of manufacturer limits.
Hitch Class
The Encore GX uses a Class I hitch with a 1-1/4 inch receiver tube. Class I hitches are designed for light-duty towing and are rated for up to 2,000 lbs gross trailer weight (GTW) at the hitch component level, though the vehicle’s rated limit of 1,000 lbs governs maximum trailer weight.
Tongue Weight
Tongue weight must remain at or below 100 lbs (45 kg) for the Encore GX. Tongue weight that exceeds this limit places excessive stress on the rear suspension, alters vehicle steering response, and can trigger trailer sway. Approximately 10 to 15 percent of total trailer weight should rest on the hitch ball as a general loading guideline.
Trailer Brake Controller
Trailers above 1,000 lbs GTW in most jurisdictions require supplemental brakes. Since the Encore GX’s maximum trailer weight is 1,000 lbs, an electric brake controller is not required in all cases. However, local regulations vary and should be verified before towing. For trailers equipped with surge brakes, no additional controller is needed inside the tow vehicle.
Transmission Cooler
The Encore GX does not have a factory-optional transmission cooler. Light-duty towing within the 1,000 lb rated limit should not place the transmission under thermal stress during normal operating conditions. Extended towing in extreme heat or high-altitude environments should be monitored through the vehicle’s transmission temperature indicators if available.
Tire Load Ratings
Tire load ratings must be checked before towing. The combined weight of the vehicle, passengers, cargo, and tongue weight must not exceed the total load rating of all four tires. The door placard provides the correct tire size and pressure specifications for the Encore GX’s load range.
Trailer Sway Control
The Encore GX does not feature a dedicated factory trailer sway control system. Proper load distribution on the trailer, correct tongue weight, and a correctly sized hitch ball are the primary controls against trailer sway at the Encore GX’s towing capacity range.
Normal Towing vs. Heavy Towing Setup
| Factor | Light Towing (Under 500 lbs) | Maximum Load Towing (Up to 1,000 lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| Hitch Requirement | Class I aftermarket hitch | Class I factory or aftermarket hitch, properly torqued |
| Tongue Weight | Under 50 lbs | 100 lbs maximum |
| Tire Pressure | Standard door placard spec | Check and inflate to maximum placard spec |
| Mirrors | Standard mirrors adequate | Extended mirror view recommended |
| Brake Distance | Standard following distance | Increase following distance by 50% or more |
| Transmission Load | Minimal | Monitor for heat on extended grades |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum towing capacity of a Buick Encore?
The standard Buick Encore (2013-2022) has no manufacturer-assigned towing capacity and is not rated for trailer towing. The Buick Encore GX (2020-present) has a maximum towing capacity of 1,000 lbs (454 kg) across all engine and drivetrain configurations.
How much can a Buick Encore GX tow with the Trailering Package?
The Buick Encore GX tows a maximum of 1,000 lbs (454 kg) with the factory Trailering Package installed. The Trailering Package adds the hitch receiver and wiring harness but does not increase the rated maximum trailer weight beyond the base 1,000 lb limit. This capacity applies to all trim levels including Preferred, Sport Touring, and Avenir.
Does AWD affect Buick Encore GX towing capacity?
No. The Buick Encore GX towing capacity of 1,000 lbs (454 kg) is identical for both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models. Drivetrain selection does not alter the maximum trailer weight rating for any Encore GX model year.
What trailer weight is safe for a Buick Encore GX?
The manufacturer’s maximum trailer weight limit is 1,000 lbs (454 kg) for the Encore GX. A practical safe towing load accounts for passengers and cargo already in the vehicle, which reduces available towing margin. Tongue weight must also remain within 100 lbs (45 kg) at all times.
Do I need a weight-distributing hitch for a Buick Encore GX?
A weight-distributing hitch is not required and is not compatible with the Encore GX’s Class I 1-1/4 inch receiver. Weight-distributing systems are designed for Class III and higher towing configurations. The Encore GX’s 1,000 lb towing limit falls within the operational range of a standard ball mount hitch with proper tongue weight management.
Which Buick Encore year has the highest towing capacity?
The Buick Encore GX maintains a uniform maximum towing capacity of 1,000 lbs (454 kg) across all model years from 2020 through 2026. No model year of the Encore GX exceeds this limit. The standard Buick Encore has no towing capacity rating for any model year from 2013 to 2022.
Conclusion
The Buick Encore nameplate covers two distinct vehicles with significantly different towing specifications. The standard Buick Encore, produced from 2013 through 2022, carries no manufacturer towing rating in any configuration. The Buick Encore GX, introduced for the 2020 model year and continuing through 2026, offers a consistent maximum towing capacity of 1,000 lbs (454 kg) regardless of engine, drivetrain, or trim selection.
Towing capacity for the Encore GX does not increase with the available Trailering Package; the package provides the hitch hardware and wiring rather than an upgraded rating. Tongue weight must remain at or below 100 lbs (45 kg) at all times, and the Class I 1-1/4 inch receiver hitch is the only compatible towing interface for this vehicle.
Always verify towing specifications using the owner’s manual and door placard before towing any load.
