The GMC Terrain is a compact crossover SUV that has been in production since the 2010 model year. It is built on General Motors platforms and has been sold across two full generations and a third generation introduced for 2025. Engine options, drivetrain configurations, and available tow packages have changed significantly across model years.
This guide provides year-by-year towing specifications for the GMC Terrain, covering maximum trailer weight, payload capacity, tongue weight limits, and hitch requirements from 2010 through 2025. Configurations vary by engine and drivetrain, and towing capacity differs substantially between models with and without the factory-available trailering package.
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2025 GMC Terrain Towing Capacity
The 2025 GMC Terrain is the first model year of the third generation, launched exclusively in the Elevation trim level. It is built on the GM D2 platform and produced at the GM San Luis Potosí plant in Mexico.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 1.5L Turbocharged I-4 (LSD), 175 hp, 184 lb-ft (FWD) / 203 lb-ft (AWD) |
| Drivetrain | FWD (CVT) or AWD (8-speed automatic) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | FWD: 800 lbs (363 kg) / AWD: 1,500 lbs (680 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | FWD: 800 lbs (363 kg) / AWD: 1,500 lbs (680 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,100 lbs (499 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg) AWD |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 80 lbs (36 kg) FWD / 150 lbs (68 kg) AWD |
| Hitch Class | Class II |
| Factory Tow Package | No (no factory or dealer-installed tow hitch currently offered) |
The 2025 GMC Terrain produces 800 lbs (363 kg) of towing capacity in FWD configuration and 1,500 lbs (680 kg) in AWD configuration. No factory tow hitch is currently offered for the 2025 Terrain, though dealer accessory availability is anticipated. Selecting the AWD drivetrain is necessary to reach the maximum trailer weight rating for this model year.
2024 GMC Terrain Towing Capacity
The 2024 GMC Terrain represents the final model year of the second generation. All trim levels, including SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali, share an identical towing rating regardless of drivetrain. Production concluded in October 2024 to prepare for the third-generation 2025 model.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 1.5L Turbocharged I-4 (LSD), 175 hp, 203 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD, 3.47 axle ratio |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 1,500 lbs (680 kg) all trims |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 1,500 lbs (680 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,146 lbs (520 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 4,464 lbs (2,025 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 5,964 lbs (2,705 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 150 lbs (68 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class II |
| Factory Tow Package | No dedicated package; trailering provisions standard |
The 2024 GMC Terrain has a uniform maximum towing capacity of 1,500 lbs (680 kg) across all trim levels and drivetrain configurations. No dedicated trailering package is available for this model year, though standard trailering provisions are included from the factory. Staying within the 1,500 lb trailer weight limit protects the transmission and cooling systems during sustained towing.
2023 GMC Terrain Towing Capacity
The 2023 model year introduced the updated 1.5L LSD turbocharged engine, replacing the prior LYX unit. Towing capacity ratings carry over unchanged from the 2022 model year.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 1.5L Turbocharged I-4 (LSD), 175 hp, 203 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 1,500 lbs (680 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 1,500 lbs (680 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,050 lbs (476 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | Approx. 4,850 lbs (2,200 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 6,350 lbs (2,880 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 150 lbs (68 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class II |
| Factory Tow Package | No dedicated package |
The 2023 GMC Terrain provides a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 lbs (680 kg) with the single turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder engine. The updated LSD engine variant delivers the same torque output as the previous year but offers revised calibration for efficiency. Trailer weight must not exceed the rated 1,500 lb limit regardless of trim or drivetrain selection.
2022 GMC Terrain Towing Capacity
The 2022 Terrain uses the 1.5L LYX turbocharged engine and does not offer the 2.0L turbo or diesel engine options that were available in earlier second-generation models.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 1.5L Turbocharged I-4 (LYX), 170 hp, 203 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 1,500 lbs (680 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 1,500 lbs (680 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,050 lbs (476 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | Approx. 4,850 lbs (2,200 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 6,350 lbs (2,880 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 150 lbs (68 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class II |
| Factory Tow Package | No (accessories only) |
The 2022 GMC Terrain is limited to a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 lbs (680 kg) across all configurations. No factory tow package is available for this model year, as GMC offers only towing accessories such as ball mount hardware and wiring adapters. The hitch class is rated at Class II, compatible with trailers up to the rated limit.
2021 GMC Terrain Towing Capacity
The 2021 model year dropped the 2.0L turbocharged engine and the 1.6L diesel, leaving only the 1.5L turbo as the sole powertrain. This reduced the maximum available towing capacity compared to 2018-2020 models with the V92 package.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 1.5L Turbocharged I-4, 170 hp, 203 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 1,500 lbs (680 kg) braked / 1,000 lbs (454 kg) unbraked |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 1,500 lbs (680 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 971 lbs (441 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 4,630 lbs (2,100 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 6,130 lbs (2,781 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 150 lbs (68 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class II |
| Factory Tow Package | No (V92 Trailer Towing Package not available for 2021) |
The 2021 GMC Terrain has a maximum braked towing capacity of 1,500 lbs (680 kg) and an unbraked towing limit of 1,000 lbs (454 kg). Any trailer exceeding 1,000 lbs (454 kg) requires a functioning trailer brake system to meet manufacturer specifications. The V92 Trailer Towing Package, which was available on 2018-2020 models, is not offered for the 2021 model year.
2020 GMC Terrain Towing Capacity
The 2020 Terrain retained both the 1.5L turbo and 2.0L turbo engine options from the second-generation launch, along with the optional 1.6L turbo diesel. Models equipped with the 2.0L turbocharged engine and the V92 Trailer Towing Package reach the highest towing rating in the second generation.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 1.5L Turbocharged I-4 (170 hp, 203 lb-ft) / 2.0L Turbocharged I-4 (252 hp, 260 lb-ft) / 1.6L Turbocharged Diesel I-4 |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) with 2.0L + V92 Package / 1,500 lbs (680 kg) with 1.5L or Diesel |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,049 lbs (476 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 4,850 lbs (2,200 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 8,350 lbs (3,788 kg) with 2.0L |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs (159 kg) with 2.0L / 150 lbs (68 kg) with 1.5L |
| Hitch Class | Class III (with 2.0L + V92) / Class II (with 1.5L) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (V92 Trailer Towing Package, 2.0L engine required) |
The 2020 GMC Terrain reaches a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) when equipped with the 2.0L turbocharged engine and the V92 Trailer Towing Package. Models with the base 1.5L turbocharged engine or the optional diesel are limited to 1,500 lbs (680 kg). The towing diesel specification was available only from 2018 through 2020 and carries a 1,500 lb (680 kg) rating per manufacturer data.
2019 GMC Terrain Towing Capacity
The 2019 Terrain offers the same three-engine lineup as 2018 and 2020 models. Towing specifications carry over without change from the prior year.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 1.5L Turbocharged I-4 (170 hp, 203 lb-ft) / 2.0L Turbocharged I-4 (252 hp, 260 lb-ft) / 1.6L Turbocharged Diesel I-4 |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) with 2.0L + V92 Package / 1,500 lbs (680 kg) with 1.5L or Diesel |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,049 lbs (476 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 4,850 lbs (2,200 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 8,350 lbs (3,788 kg) with 2.0L |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs (159 kg) with 2.0L / 150 lbs (68 kg) with 1.5L |
| Hitch Class | Class III (with 2.0L + V92) / Class II (with 1.5L or Diesel) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (V92 Trailer Towing Package, 2.0L required) |
The 2019 GMC Terrain supports a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) with the 2.0L turbocharged engine and V92 towing package installed. The diesel option provides 1,500 lbs (680 kg) of trailer weight capacity and does not accept the V92 upgrade. Engine selection is the primary factor in determining trailer weight limits for this model year.
2018 GMC Terrain Towing Capacity
The 2018 model year introduced the second generation of the GMC Terrain. The platform, body, and powertrain were fully redesigned, replacing the first-generation architecture.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 1.5L Turbocharged I-4 (170 hp, 203 lb-ft) / 2.0L Turbocharged I-4 (252 hp, 260 lb-ft) / 1.6L Turbocharged Diesel I-4 |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) with 2.0L + V92 Package / 1,500 lbs (680 kg) with 1.5L or Diesel |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,049 lbs (476 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 4,850 lbs (2,200 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 8,350 lbs (3,788 kg) with 2.0L |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs (159 kg) with 2.0L / 150 lbs (68 kg) with 1.5L |
| Hitch Class | Class III (with 2.0L + V92) / Class II (with 1.5L or Diesel) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (V92 Trailer Towing Package, 2.0L engine required) |
The 2018 GMC Terrain established the second-generation towing framework, with the 2.0L turbocharged engine and V92 package enabling a maximum of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg). The 9-speed automatic transmission replaced the 6-speed unit used throughout the first generation. Without the V92 Trailer Towing Package, all 2018 Terrain configurations are rated at 1,500 lbs (680 kg).
2017 GMC Terrain Towing Capacity
The 2017 Terrain is the final year of the first generation. Engine options continued to include the naturally aspirated 2.4L four-cylinder and the 3.6L V-6. The V-6 provides the highest towing capacity in the first-generation lineup.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.4L I-4 (182 hp, 172 lb-ft) / 3.6L V-6 (301 hp, 272 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) with 3.6L V-6 / 1,500 lbs (680 kg) with 2.4L I-4 |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,021 lbs (463 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 5,070 lbs (2,300 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 8,570 lbs (3,887 kg) with V-6 |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs (159 kg) with V-6 / 150 lbs (68 kg) with I-4 |
| Hitch Class | Class III (with V-6) / Class II (with I-4) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2017 GMC Terrain with the 3.6L V-6 engine reaches the maximum first-generation towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg). Models equipped with the base 2.4L four-cylinder are limited to a 1,500 lb (680 kg) trailer weight limit. The 6-speed automatic transmission was used across all 2017 first-generation configurations.
2016 GMC Terrain Towing Capacity
The 2016 Terrain retains the same powertrain lineup and towing specifications as the 2017 model year. Engine availability and towing capacities are unchanged from 2013 through 2017.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.4L I-4 (182 hp, 172 lb-ft) / 3.6L V-6 (301 hp, 272 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) with 3.6L V-6 / 1,500 lbs (680 kg) with 2.4L I-4 |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,021 lbs (463 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 5,070 lbs (2,300 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 8,570 lbs (3,887 kg) with V-6 |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs (159 kg) with V-6 / 150 lbs (68 kg) with I-4 |
| Hitch Class | Class III (with V-6) / Class II (with I-4) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2016 GMC Terrain supports up to 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) maximum towing capacity when equipped with the 3.6L V-6 engine. Towing specifications for 2016 align directly with those of the 2013-2017 first-generation period. Selecting the V-6 engine remains the only path to the higher trailer weight rating in this generation.
2015 GMC Terrain Towing Capacity
The 2015 Terrain uses the same mechanical specifications as 2013-2017 models. No powertrain or towing changes were introduced for this model year.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.4L I-4 (182 hp, 172 lb-ft) / 3.6L V-6 (301 hp, 272 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) with 3.6L V-6 / 1,500 lbs (680 kg) with 2.4L I-4 |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,021 lbs (463 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 5,070 lbs (2,300 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 8,570 lbs (3,887 kg) with V-6 |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs (159 kg) with V-6 / 150 lbs (68 kg) with I-4 |
| Hitch Class | Class III (with V-6) / Class II (with I-4) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2015 GMC Terrain has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) with the 3.6L V-6 engine and appropriate towing equipment. The 2.4L I-4 configuration is limited to 1,500 lbs (680 kg). Both engine options use the 6-speed automatic transmission.
2014 GMC Terrain Towing Capacity
The 2014 Terrain maintains the same towing specifications as 2013-2017 first-generation models. Engine displacement and power output remain unchanged from the prior year.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.4L I-4 (182 hp, 172 lb-ft) / 3.6L V-6 (301 hp, 272 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) with 3.6L V-6 / 1,500 lbs (680 kg) with 2.4L I-4 |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,021 lbs (463 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 5,070 lbs (2,300 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 8,570 lbs (3,887 kg) with V-6 |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs (159 kg) with V-6 / 150 lbs (68 kg) with I-4 |
| Hitch Class | Class III (with V-6) / Class II (with I-4) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2014 GMC Terrain provides a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) with the V-6 engine and proper towing equipment installed. The 2.4L four-cylinder models are rated at 1,500 lbs (680 kg) regardless of drivetrain selection. Manufacturer towing limits apply equally to both FWD and AWD configurations.
2013 GMC Terrain Towing Capacity
The 2013 model year introduced the 3.6L V-6, replacing the 3.0L V-6 used in 2010-2012 models. The 3.6L provides increased horsepower and carries the same maximum towing rating as its predecessor.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.4L I-4 (182 hp, 172 lb-ft) / 3.6L V-6 (301 hp, 272 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) with 3.6L V-6 / 1,500 lbs (680 kg) with 2.4L I-4 |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,021 lbs (463 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 5,070 lbs (2,300 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 8,570 lbs (3,887 kg) with V-6 |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs (159 kg) with V-6 / 150 lbs (68 kg) with I-4 |
| Hitch Class | Class III (with V-6) / Class II (with I-4) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2013 GMC Terrain achieved the same 3,500 lb (1,588 kg) maximum towing capacity as its predecessors despite the engine displacement increase from 3.0L to 3.6L. The upgraded V-6 produces 301 horsepower, which is an increase over the 264 hp rating of the 3.0L unit used through 2012. Towing capacity is consistent across both FWD and AWD drivetrain options.
2012 GMC Terrain Towing Capacity
The 2012 Terrain uses the first-generation 3.0L V-6 engine, which was the final model year for that displacement in the lineup. Towing ratings remain the same as 2010-2011 models.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.4L I-4 (182 hp, 172 lb-ft) / 3.0L V-6 (264 hp, 223 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) with 3.0L V-6 / 1,500 lbs (680 kg) with 2.4L I-4 |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,021 lbs (463 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 5,070 lbs (2,300 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 8,570 lbs (3,887 kg) with V-6 |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs (159 kg) with V-6 / 150 lbs (68 kg) with I-4 |
| Hitch Class | Class III (with V-6) / Class II (with I-4) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2012 GMC Terrain supports a maximum trailer weight of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) with the 3.0L V-6 engine and appropriate hitch hardware. The 2.4L I-4 configuration is limited to 1,500 lbs (680 kg). This is the last model year to use the 3.0L V-6 before the 3.6L displacement replaced it in 2013.
2011 GMC Terrain Towing Capacity
The 2011 Terrain carries identical towing specifications to the 2010 launch year. Engine options, drivetrain availability, and weight ratings are unchanged.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.4L I-4 (182 hp, 172 lb-ft) / 3.0L V-6 (264 hp, 223 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) with 3.0L V-6 / 1,500 lbs (680 kg) with 2.4L I-4 |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,021 lbs (463 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 5,070 lbs (2,300 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 8,570 lbs (3,887 kg) with V-6 |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs (159 kg) with V-6 / 150 lbs (68 kg) with I-4 |
| Hitch Class | Class III (with V-6) / Class II (with I-4) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2011 GMC Terrain with the 3.0L V-6 engine has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg). Four-cylinder models are rated at 1,500 lbs (680 kg). Tongue weight must not exceed 10-15 percent of the loaded trailer weight per GMC owner’s manual specifications.
2010 GMC Terrain Towing Capacity
The 2010 GMC Terrain is the first model year of the nameplate, introduced as a replacement for the Pontiac Torrent. It was built on the Theta platform and offered two engine options from launch.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.4L I-4 (182 hp, 172 lb-ft) / 3.0L V-6 (264 hp, 223 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) with 3.0L V-6 / 1,500 lbs (680 kg) with 2.4L I-4 |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,021 lbs (463 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 5,070 lbs (2,300 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 8,570 lbs (3,887 kg) with V-6 |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs (159 kg) with V-6 / 150 lbs (68 kg) with I-4 |
| Hitch Class | Class III (with V-6) / Class II (with I-4) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2010 GMC Terrain establishes the baseline towing specification for the entire first generation, with a maximum capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) using the 3.0L V-6 engine. Models with the 2.4L four-cylinder are restricted to 1,500 lbs (680 kg) of trailer weight. The 6-speed automatic transmission transfers power in both FWD and AWD configurations throughout this generation.
Towing Equipment and Setup
Proper towing equipment selection has a direct impact on towing safety, drivetrain longevity, and trailer control. The GMC Terrain does not require a weight-distributing hitch at its rated towing limits, but several other components are relevant depending on trailer weight.
Tow Package and Hitch Requirements
The Terrain uses a frame-mounted hitch receiver and does not support bumper towing. Class II hitches are standard for 2021-2025 configurations, while V-6 and 2.0L turbo models in prior years use Class III hardware with higher tongue weight ratings. A wiring harness adapter is required to connect trailer lighting circuits, and GMC offers 4-pin to 7-pin conversion accessories for this purpose.
Trailer Brake Controller
Any trailer exceeding 1,000 lbs (454 kg) gross weight requires a trailer brake system per GMC manufacturer guidelines. An electric brake controller must be installed in the vehicle cab to modulate trailer brakes during deceleration. Vehicles towing near the maximum rating benefit most from a proportional brake controller, which adjusts braking force based on vehicle deceleration rate.
Transmission Protection
Sustained towing, particularly in hilly terrain or at highway speeds, increases transmission fluid temperature. A transmission cooler is recommended when towing consistently near the maximum rated weight. The Terrain’s Tow/Haul mode, where available, adjusts shift points to reduce transmission heat buildup during trailer towing.
Tire Load Ratings and Sway Control
Trailer sway is a risk when tongue weight falls outside the 10-15 percent range of loaded trailer weight. Tires must be inflated to manufacturer specifications before towing, as underinflated tires increase handling instability under load. A sway control device is recommended for trailers approaching the maximum rated limit.
Normal vs. Heavy Towing Setup
| Component | Standard Towing (under 1,500 lbs) | Heavy Towing (1,500-3,500 lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| Hitch Class | Class II | Class III |
| Trailer Brakes | Not required under 1,000 lbs | Required above 1,000 lbs |
| Brake Controller | Optional | Required |
| Weight Distribution | Not required | Recommended near max weight |
| Transmission Cooler | Not required | Recommended |
| Tow/Haul Mode | Optional | Activate when available |
| Sway Control | Optional | Recommended |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum towing capacity of a GMC Terrain?
The maximum towing capacity of the GMC Terrain is 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg). This figure applies to first-generation models (2010-2017) with the V-6 engine, and to second-generation 2018-2020 models equipped with the 2.0L turbocharged engine and the V92 Trailer Towing Package. Models from 2021 onward are limited to 1,500 lbs (680 kg) maximum.
How much can a GMC Terrain tow with a tow package?
Second-generation 2018-2020 Terrain models equipped with the optional V92 Trailer Towing Package and the 2.0L turbocharged I-4 engine can tow up to 3,505 lbs (1,590 kg). The tow package is not available for model years 2021 and later. For 2021-2025 models, the maximum towing capacity remains 1,500 lbs (680 kg) regardless of accessories installed.
Does 4WD or AWD affect GMC Terrain towing capacity?
For the 2024 model year, AWD and FWD configurations share an identical towing capacity of 1,500 lbs (680 kg). For the 2025 Terrain, drivetrain selection does affect towing capacity, with AWD-equipped models rated at 1,500 lbs (680 kg) and FWD models limited to 800 lbs (363 kg). In prior model years, drivetrain selection affects the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) but does not change the maximum trailer weight limit.
What trailer weight is safe for a GMC Terrain?
Trailer weight must not exceed the manufacturer-rated maximum for the specific model year and engine configuration. Any trailer over 1,000 lbs (454 kg) requires trailer brakes to comply with GMC towing guidelines. Tongue weight should remain between 10 and 15 percent of the loaded trailer weight to maintain proper vehicle handling and braking performance.
Do I need a weight-distributing hitch for a GMC Terrain?
A weight-distributing hitch is not required for the GMC Terrain at its rated towing limits, as the maximum capacity is below the threshold where weight distribution hardware becomes necessary. The Terrain requires only a standard Class II or Class III frame-mounted hitch receiver depending on model year. Bumper towing is not supported on any GMC Terrain model year.
Which GMC Terrain model year has the highest towing capacity?
First-generation Terrain models from 2010-2017 with the V-6 engine, and second-generation 2018-2020 models with the 2.0L turbo and V92 package, all share the maximum rating of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg). These represent the highest towing configurations in the Terrain’s production history. No model year exceeds this figure under any documented configuration.
Conclusion
The GMC Terrain towing capacity ranges from 800 lbs (363 kg) on the 2025 FWD model to a peak of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) on first-generation V-6 equipped models and second-generation 2018-2020 models with the 2.0L turbo and V92 package. From 2021 forward, the elimination of the V-6 and 2.0L turbo options reduced the maximum towing limit to 1,500 lbs (680 kg) across all configurations. Engine selection and the presence of the V92 Trailer Towing Package are the two primary factors that determine maximum trailer weight in the Terrain lineup. Exceeding manufacturer-rated towing limits places excessive load on the engine, transmission, brakes, and chassis components. Always verify specifications using the owner’s manual specific to your vehicle’s model year and configuration before towing any load.
