What size trailer can a Chevy Traverse pull?
The Chevy Traverse can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
This maximum applies to recent model years equipped with Chevrolet's Trailering Package and the appropriate hitch hardware. Exact figures vary by year, drivetrain, and payload; always verify your specific rating in the owner’s manual and on the door jamb label for your vehicle.
Understanding the 5,000-pound limit
For modern Traverse models, the 5,000-pound tow figure represents the maximum gross trailer weight you can safely pull when you have the right equipment and vehicle configuration. The availability of this capacity depends on having the factory trailering package, a compatible hitch, and wiring, as well as maintaining adequate payload to support the hitch load and occupants.
To reach this limit in practice, you’ll need to match the trailer’s weight (including cargo) to the Traverse’s capabilities. Always compare the trailer’s gross vehicle weight rating (GTW) with the vehicle’s payload and gross combined weight rating (GCWR) for your exact model year and trim.
What you need to tow up to 5,000 pounds
Before attempting to tow near the 5,000-pound mark, ensure your Traverse is equipped and prepared with the following components and considerations.
- Trailering Package (often includes heavy-duty cooling, engine oil cooler, and other upgrades) and a suitable hitch setup.
- 2-inch hitch receiver and a wiring harness rated for towing (typically 7-pin connector).
- Trailer brakes on the trailer and, in some configurations, an optional or integrated trailer brake controller.
- Adequate payload capacity to handle occupants, cargo, and hitch weight; verify the door jamb sticker or owner’s manual for exact numbers.
- Respect for payload, tongue weight (about 10-15% of trailer weight), and braking requirements to maintain safe stopping distances.
Conclusion: With the Trailering Package and proper equipment, the Traverse can tow up to 5,000 pounds, provided the trailer and load stay within all ratings.
How to verify your model’s exact rating
Because towing capacity can change by year, trim, and drivetrain, check these official references to confirm your specific limits.
- Owner’s manual for the tow rating and equipment requirements for your year/model.
- Certification label on the driver’s side door jamb showing maximum towing capacity and payload.
- VIN-based build sheet or dealer lookup for your exact configuration and any optional equipment.
Conclusion: Always confirm the exact rating from official sources before towing, rather than relying on general figures.
Typical trailer types that commonly fit within a 5,000-pound limit
Here are examples of trailers and loads that often stay within the 5,000-pound maximum when loaded responsibly. These are approximate ranges and depend on the specific trailer and its contents.
- Small travel trailers around 20–25 feet long with loaded weights up to roughly 4,000–5,000 pounds.
- Mid-size boats on trailers (condensed/lightweight deck boats or smaller cabin boats) totaling around 3,000–5,000 pounds.
- Utility trailers carrying equipment, landscaping gear, or pallets in the 1,000–4,000 pound range.
- Motorcycle or car trailers with lighter loads, typically well under 5,000 pounds.
Conclusion: When selecting a trailer, focus on the trailer’s gross weight rather than length alone, and ensure it does not exceed the Traverse’s rating after accounting for cargo and tongue weight.
Safety considerations and best practices
To tow safely and within limits, keep these guidelines in mind.
- Distribute weight evenly and aim for a tongue weight around 10–15% of the trailer’s GTW.
- Use a properly rated hitch and verify that the trailer has functioning brakes if the weight approaches 2,000–3,000 pounds or more, depending on regulations and vehicle capability.
- Regularly inspect tires, lights, wiring, and hitch connections; ensure brakes and sway control (if equipped) are functioning correctly.
- Do not exceed the vehicle’s GCWR or payload rating; plan for additional cargo, passengers, and fuel.
Conclusion: Safe towing requires adhering to official ratings, using the right equipment, and performing due diligence on weight distribution and braking.
Summary
The Chevrolet Traverse is capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped with the Trailering Package and the correct hitch and wiring. The exact rating depends on the model year and configuration, so always verify with the owner’s manual, the door-jamb label, and the VIN build sheet. When towing near the limit, choose trailers within the weight range, calculate tongue weight carefully, and follow best practices for safety and braking.
Can a Traverse pull a pop-up camper?
2022 Chevrolet Traverse Towing
This family-oriented mid-size SUV is capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds, so you can get your pop-up camper out to your favorite camping site with ease. However, in order to reach this maximum Chevy Traverse towing capacity, it requires certain equipment.
How much can a 3.6 L V6 tow?
A 3.6L V6 can tow between approximately 6,200 and 8,110 pounds, depending on the specific vehicle, year, and configuration. For example, a 2025 Ram 1500 with this engine can tow up to 8,110 pounds, while a 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee can tow up to 6,200 pounds.
This video reviews the towing capabilities of the Ram 1500 with a 3.6L V6 engine: 58sGetty's GarageYouTube · Sep 17, 2023
- Ram 1500: The 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine, especially with the eTorque system, can tow up to 8,110 pounds.
- Jeep Grand Cherokee: The 3.6L V6 engine in a 2025 model can tow up to 6,200 pounds.
- Ram ProMaster: The 3.6L Pentastar V6 in a 2023 ProMaster van can tow up to 6,910 pounds.
- Other vehicles: Towing capacity varies by make and model. Always check your specific vehicle's owner's manual or specifications for its exact towing capacity, as it can be influenced by factors like drivetrain (4x2 vs. 4x4), trim level, and installed options.
How big of a trailer can a Chevy Traverse pull?
5,000 pounds
The Standard Trailering Package
Since all 2025 Chevrolet Traverse models have the ability to tow up to 5,000 pounds, all models are equipped with towing gear. The standard Trailering Package comes with several important features that make towing easier. All models have a hitch and hitch cover.
What is the smallest SUV that can tow 5000 lb?
The Subaru Ascent is one of the smallest SUVs with a 5,000-pound towing capacity, along with other mid-size SUVs like the Honda Passport, Hyundai Palisade, and Kia Telluride. While the Ascent is a three-row SUV, it's often categorized as smaller than many other models with the same towing rating, and it offers this capability with its standard all-wheel drive system.
- Subaru Ascent: A compact three-row SUV that can tow up to 5,000 pounds, making it a great option if you need the extra seats along with the towing capacity, notes Oliver Travel Trailers.
- Honda Passport: A two-row mid-size SUV that can tow up to 5,000 pounds, equipped with a standard V6 engine and all-wheel drive, says Honda East Cincinnati.
- Hyundai Palisade: A three-row mid-size SUV capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped with trailer brakes, as noted by Hyundai of Hazelwood.
- Kia Telluride: Similar to the Palisade, this is a three-row mid-size SUV that can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
- Volkswagen Atlas: Another three-row mid-size SUV option with a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.
