What Size Camper Can a Chevy Traverse Pull

By Nick Marchenko, PhD

Seating for eight passengers in a vehicle was once limited to minivans or massive full-sized SUVs like the Chevy Suburban or Ford Expedition. Not to mention the Ford Excursion.

However, this dichotomy has been addressed with the emergence of 3-row midsize SUVs, and the Chevy Traverse stands out as an excellent example of this modern trend.

Chevy gave the Traverse a redesign in 2018, departing from its previous rounded design in favor of a more angular appearance. This update included a larger grille, a squared-off rear end with increased cargo space, and a refreshed interior.

Even in its base trim, which starts at an MSRP below thirty thousand dollars, the cabin boasts a surprisingly upscale feel. However, its aesthetic appeal does not compromise its performance.

While the 3.6-liter V6 engine may not be as powerful as some competitors, like the Dodge Durango or Ford Edge, it offers respectable power for everyday driving and even some towing.

Although the Traverse does not have a larger option, the 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque packed beneath the hood provide ample strength for various towing needs.

If you are interested in learning more about the Chevy Traverse's towing capacity and the necessary options for your specific needs, we will delve into those details.

Chevy Traverse Maximum Towing Capacity

The 2020 Chevy Traverse is a prominent figure in the midsize SUV category, renowned for its exceptional capabilities. When appropriately equipped, this model can effortlessly tow up to 5,000 pounds of trailer weight.

With this remarkable towing capacity and essential features, you will have the ability to transport a variety of items, including: A pop-up camper or a small hard-sided RV, perfect for peaceful weekend getaways.

Small recreational boats for family fishing trips. Utility trailers laden with larger recreational items such as dirt bikes, snowmobiles, or jet skis.

Other compact vehicles when you are en route to a car show. Box trailers for moving purposes or flatbed trailers loaded with mulch for DIY landscaping projects.

Chevy Traverse Towing Accessories

To maximize your vehicle's towing capabilities, you will need the right accessories. Consider these accessories, which you can either add to your Traverse at the time of purchase or purchase later from our parts center:

Trailer hitch

This essential accessory allows you to tow a boat or trailer weighing up to 5,000 pounds.

Heavy-duty cooling system

Ideal for preventing overheating during long trips under load, ensuring your engine remains cool and efficient.

Hitch guidance

 Hitch guidance provides visual assistance for precise hitching.

Hitch guidance with hitch view

This feature combines visual guidance with a hitch view, making it even easier to attach your trailer or hitch accessory.

How to Maximize the Chevy Traverse Towing Capacity

In 2024, all models come equipped with the same engine, and each trim level has the capability to tow up to 5,000 pounds in the vicinity of North Charleston.

However, only two configurations come fully outfitted with all the necessary equipment for trailer attachment: the Chevy Traverse Z71 and the Chevy Traverse RS.

Both include the trailering package as standard, which comprises a robust engine cooling system and a reliable trailer hitch. If you opt for the lower-tier models, you can still opt for the optional trailering package as an upgrade.

It is too early to confirm whether the 2024 Traverse will retain all the towing features available in the previous year's model.

Nevertheless, it would not be surprising if features like tow-haul mode, hitch guidance, and hitch view, which were previously offered, continued to be available in the new model year.

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Chevrolet Traverse Features

With its robust 3.6-liter V6 engine delivering 310 HP and 266 lb-ft of torque, along with an optional towing package, the Chevy Traverse is well-equipped to handle your towing needs. Here are some noteworthy towing features:

V6 engine

Every Traverse model is equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 engine, generating 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. This robust engine ensures you have ample power for your daily drives and can easily get a trailer up to speed.

Trailering package

To tow up to 5,000 pounds, you will need the trailering package. This package includes a hitch and a heavy-duty cooling system, allowing your engine to work harder while minimizing the risk of overheating.

Tow-haul mode

Your Traverse is equipped with a tow-haul mode drive setting, which you should engage when towing a trailer or carrying a heavy load.

This mode keeps your vehicle in a lower gear for longer, providing increased torque during acceleration. It also adjusts speed by downshifting when descending hills, reducing the need for heavy braking.

Trailer sway control

Part of the stability track electronic stability control system, trailer sway control automatically corrects your trailer's stability if it starts to sway, enhancing safety while towing.

How to Make the Most Out of Towing Without the Trailering Package

Even without some of the more advanced features available in the trailering package, the base models of the Chevy Traverse provide certain features to facilitate towing.

Depending on whether your car is front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, the Chevy Stability Track traction control technology, which is patented, comes standard on all Traverse models.

It offers a choice of two or four distinct modes. Normal and snow modes are available in the front-wheel drive model, while other modes such as FWD for fuel efficiency, 4x4 for enhanced traction, off-road for rough terrain, and tow-haul mode are available in the all-wheel drive models.

The tow-haul mode keeps the Traverse's transmission in a lower gear to deliver more torque and can distribute power to the wheels with the most traction.

While this feature would not enable you to tow more than 1,500 pounds, it can enhance your towing experience with smaller trailers and equipment such as lawnmowers, jet skis, kayaks, motorcycles, and more.

You could even transport a partially loaded 4x8 U-haul trailer, which weighs 850 pounds. While it may not accommodate an entire apartment's worth of belongings, it provides valuable versatility to your vehicle.

Nick Marchenko, PhD

Industrial Engineer & Automotive Content Specialist

Nick writes in-depth guides on car clubs, engine specs, vehicle ownership, and modifications, combining engineering knowledge with automotive passion.

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