Towing capacity is a key consideration for SUV shoppers who plan to haul boats, ATVs, snowmobiles, campers and cargo. At Antich Automotive, we want to provide a detailed look at the 2023 Buick Enclave’s towing abilities, equipment, tips and configurations.
2023 Enclave Max Towing Capacity
The properly equipped 2023 Buick Enclave has a maximum towing capacity of:
5,000 pounds
This allows the midsize Enclave SUV to tow small-to-medium sized trailers including:
- Small travel trailers
- Lightweight pop-up campers
- Jet skis and wave runners
- Bass boats and bay boats
- Aluminum fishing boats
- Small yachts and cruisers
- Enclosed cargo trailers
The Enclave provides versatile towing capacity for lightweight recreational and cargo trailers.
Standard Towing Capacity
The base Enclave tow rating without any added tow packages is:
1,500 pounds
This allows for hauling small utility trailers, jet skis, ATVs and motorcycles. But for expanded towing, the available factory tow package is recommended.
Towing Equipment and Features
To reach the maximum 5,000 lb towing capacity, the Enclave needs to be equipped with the trailering package which includes:
- Heavy-duty radiator and cooling fans
- Integrated trailer brake controller
- Class III hitch receiver
- 7-pin wiring harness
- Upgraded rear axle and chassis bracing
This provides the necessary gear for more demanding towing while cooling the transmission and brakes.
The Enclave also offers advanced trailering tech:
- Rear camera guidance lines to assist in hitching
- Surround view camera to easily maneuver trailers
- Rear cross traffic alert to detect vehicles near trailer
- Trailer light monitoring system
- Hill start assist to avoid rollback
Towing Capacity by Trim Level
When properly equipped with the trailering package, the max towing capacity remains consistent across Enclave trim levels:
| Trim | Towing Capacity |
|---|---|
| Preferred | 5,000 lbs |
| Essence | 5,000 lbs |
| Premium | 5,000 lbs |
| Avenir | 5,000 lbs |
Regardless of trim, the Enclave can tow up to 5,000 pounds when equipped with the available heavy-duty trailering package.
Towing Tips and Guidelines
Follow these tips when towing near the Buick Enclave’s max capacity:
- Do not exceed max tongue weight of 500 lbs
- Use a weight distributing hitch for better stability
- Verify trailer brakes are adjusted and functioning
- Check side mirror extensions for rear visibility
- Allow extra distance for stopping under load
- Consider a transmission cooler if towing often
- Use lower gears and tow/haul mode when applicable
- Monitor engine temperature gauge closely
- Ensure adequate trailer tire inflation
- Cross-check all electrical connections
- Confirm safety chains are properly rigged
- Maintain safe speeds within posted limits
Proper trailer loading, brake adjustment and using weight distribution are key for maximum control.
Ideal Trailers for Enclave Towing
The Buick Enclave’s balanced towing capability makes it ideal for:
- Small pop-up and teardrop campers – Lightweight and aerodynamic
- Small fiberglass travel trailers – Under 4,000 lb loaded capacity
- Boats up to 21 feet – Bowriders, bass boats, small cruisers
- Enclosed cargo trailers – For gear, motorcycle and utility hauling
- Jet skis and watercraft – Good for 1-2 personal watercraft
- ATVs and UTVs – Capable of towing a small trailer with 2 seated ATVs
- Snowmobiles – Enclosed snowmobile trailer within capacity
- Construction Equipment – Small utility trailer for equipment and tools
While versatile, it’s important to stay within the Enclave’s 5,000 lb tow rating and tongue weight for optimum handling and control.
Towing Packages and Costs
Buick Enclave buyers can equip their SUV for towing in a few different ways:
-
Factory tow package – Around $650 MSRP from Buick. Includes hitch, wiring, transmission cooler, chassis upgrades. Provides max 5,000 lb capacity.
-
Dealer-installed hitch – Around $400 for hitch, ball mount and wiring harness installed at the dealership. Keep capacity limited to 1,500-2,000 lbs.
-
Aftermarket hitch – Around $600 for DIY Class III hitch and wiring installation. Supplement with transmission cooler if needed.
When properly equipped, the Enclave provides a great balance of family hauling and towing versatility. Paying close attention to weight capacities and following some basic guidelines ensures both trailer and SUV are safe, stable and ready for the road or trail ahead.
