How much weight can an Equinox handle?
The Chevrolet Equinox typically carries about 900 to 1,200 pounds of payload, depending on year, trim and drivetrain. For an exact figure, check the door jamb sticker or the owner's manual for your specific model.
Understanding how much weight an Equinox can handle involves knowing two key concepts: payload and gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). Payload is the actual amount of weight the vehicle can carry in passengers and cargo, while GVWR is the maximum allowable weight of the fully loaded vehicle, including fuel and cargo. You determine payload by subtracting the curb weight (the vehicle’s weight with standard equipment and fluids but no passengers or cargo) from the GVWR. Staying within these limits is crucial for safe braking, steering, and stability.
Payload basics
To ensure you stay within safe limits, you need to know your specific vehicle’s GVWR and curb weight, then account for the weight of passengers and cargo you add. The exact numbers vary by model year and trim, so it’s important to reference your own vehicle’s labeling.
Before relying on memory or generic figures, gather these details and perform a simple calculation to confirm how much payload you can carry.
- GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) from the driver’s door sticker or the owner’s manual
- Curb weight (the weight of the vehicle with fluids but no passengers or cargo)
- Estimated weight of occupants and cargo you plan to carry
- Any towing or trailer considerations, including tongue weight, if applicable
To determine the exact payload for your Equinox, review these numbers for your specific vehicle:
With these numbers in hand, you can calculate payload and ensure you stay within the safe loading limits for everyday use and trips.
Typical payload ranges for common Equinox configurations
Because payload varies by year and trim, here are general guidance ranges that apply to most recent models:
- Front-wheel-drive base models: approximately 1,000–1,100 pounds
- All-wheel-drive configurations with similar trims: approximately 900–1,000 pounds
- Heavily optioned trims or heavier configurations: roughly 1,000–1,200 pounds
Note that real-world payload can differ based on options, equipment, and any aftermarket additions. Always verify the exact rating for your vehicle on the door sticker or in the official documentation.
Safety and practical loading considerations
Never exceed the GVWR or the stated payload for your Equinox. Overloading can increase stopping distances, reduce handling, and strain the suspension and tires. Distribute weight evenly, seat passengers in the appropriate rows, and consider trailer tongue weight if towing. For towing, remember that towing capacity and tongue weight are separate specifications from payload and GVWR.
Summary
The Equinox’s safe loading capacity centers on payload and GVWR, typically landing in the 900–1,200 pound payload range for most modern trims, with a GVWR generally around 4,900–5,000 pounds. The exact figures depend on year, trim, and drivetrain, so always verify with the door-sticker data and the owner’s manual before loading up. As a rule, calculate payload as GVWR minus curb weight and factor in the weight of passengers and cargo to stay within safe limits.
What is the weight limit for the Chevy Equinox?
A Chevy Equinox can carry 1,500 pounds of towing capacity and has a maximum payload capacity of up to 1,190 pounds. The exact payload capacity varies depending on the specific model and configuration, as it is calculated by subtracting the vehicle's curb weight from its Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The towing capacity is generally consistent across recent model years, though some base front-wheel-drive models may have a lower rating.
Towing capacity
- Maximum: The maximum towing capacity for most recent models is 1,500 pounds.
- Configuration dependent: Some models, like a 2025 LT FWD, may have a lower rating of 800 pounds.
- What it can tow: This capacity is suitable for towing items like a small fishing boat, a couple of ATVs, or a small camper.
Payload capacity
- Maximum: The maximum payload capacity is up to 1,190 pounds.
- Calculation: This is the maximum weight of passengers and cargo that can be carried inside the vehicle.
- Variation: Heavier configurations (like all-wheel drive) will have a slightly lower payload capacity compared to lighter ones. For example, a 2025 LT AWD has a payload of 1,267 lbs while a 2025 RS AWD has a payload of 1,221 lbs.
How to find your exact weight limits
- Check your owner's manual: Your vehicle's specific weight limits will be listed in the owner's manual or on the driver's side door jamb sticker.
- Consult your dealership: A dealership can help you find the specific weight limits for your vehicle's configuration.
How much weight can a 2025 Chevy Equinox carry?
Dimensions
| Wheelbase | 107.5 in. |
|---|---|
| Turning circle | 37.1 ft. |
| Curb weight | 3,428 lbs. |
| Maximum towing capacity | 800 lbs. |
| Gross weight | 4,630 lbs. |
How much weight can a 2019 Chevy Equinox carry?
Dimensions
| Wheelbase | 107.3 in. |
|---|---|
| Turning circle | 37.4 ft. |
| Curb weight | 3,325 lbs. |
| Maximum payload | 1,139 lbs. |
| Gross weight | 4,464 lbs. |
How much can a Chevy Equinox hold?
The Chevy Equinox has 29.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row of seats. When the rear seats are folded down, the cargo space expands to a maximum of 63.9 cubic feet. The vehicle also offers a hidden storage compartment under the cargo floor and can be equipped with available features like a Hands-Free Gesture liftgate.
You can watch this video to see how to configure the rear trunk space on the Chevy Equinox EV: 53sPhillipsChevyYouTube · Sep 18, 2025
- Behind the second row: 29.9 cubic feet
- With the second row folded down: 63.9 cubic feet
- Features: A hidden storage compartment under the cargo floor, with some models also including a 12-volt outlet.
- Hands-Free Liftgate: An available option to help with loading and unloading.
This video provides a quick look at the cargo area of the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox Activ: 0:52Real Mom Car ToursYouTube · Aug 28, 2024
