The GMC Terrain is a versatile crossover SUV with impressive capabilities for both off-road adventure and everyday driving. One key feature that sets the Terrain apart is its robust towing capacity, especially when equipped with the available V6 engine option. This article will explore everything you need to know about GMC Terrain V6 towing capacity to help you make the most of this rugged yet refined SUV.
Overview of GMC Terrain Towing Capacity
All Terrain models come standard with a turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder engine, but higher trims offer an available 3.6L V6 engine that significantly boosts towing power. Here is a quick rundown of max towing specs by engine:
- 2.0L Turbo 4-Cylinder: Up to 1,500 lbs capacity with available trailering package
- 3.6L V6: Up to 3,500 lbs capacity with available trailering package
The V6 can nearly double the Terrain’s max tow rating. This makes it ideal for hauling boats, RVs, ATVs, utility trailers, and other recreational gear. The standard 4-cylinder still offers decent light-duty towing for smaller loads.
Both engines can be paired with front-wheel or all-wheel drive. AWD improves traction and control while towing in slippery conditions. An available Trailer Sway Control system also enhances stability when towing.
Advantages of the Terrain V6 for Towing
The optional 3.6L V6 engine provides key advantages over the 4-cylinder:
- More horsepower – 310 hp vs. 170 hp with turbo 4-cyl
- Higher torque – 271 lb-ft vs. 203 lb-ft with turbo 4-cyl
- Larger displacement – 3.6L vs 2.0L
- More towing muscle for handling heavier loads
- Added confidence and reduced stress when towing uphill or at highway speeds
The V6 produces over 100 more horsepower and nearly 70 lb-ft more torque. This brawny performance allows drivers to tow mid-size campers, decent-sized boats, and larger cargo with greater ease. The engine’s large displacement generates abundant low-end power ideal for getting heavy loads moving from a stop.
Terrain V6 Towing Capacity Details
Now let’s take a closer look at max towing capacities for GMC Terrain models with the available V6 engine:
- 2017 GMC Terrain SLT 3.6L V6: Up to 3,500 lbs
- 2017 GMC Terrain SLT 3.6L V6 AWD: Up to 3,500 lbs
- 2018 GMC Terrain SLT 3.6L V6: Up to 3,500 lbs
- 2018 GMC Terrain SLT 3.6L V6 AWD: Up to 3,500 lbs
- 2019 GMC Terrain SLT 3.6L V6: Up to 3,500 lbs
- 2019 GMC Terrain SLT 3.6L V6 AWD: Up to 3,500 lbs
- 2020 GMC Terrain SLT 3.6L V6: Up to 3,500 lbs
- 2020 GMC Terrain SLT 3.6L V6 AWD: Up to 3,500 lbs
- 2021 GMC Terrain SLT 3.6L V6: Up to 3,500 lbs
- 2021 GMC Terrain SLT 3.6L V6 AWD: Up to 3,500 lbs
As you can see, max towing remains a consistent 3,500 pounds for all V6 models from 2017 to 2021. This covers both front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations.
The Terrain received a major refresh for 2022. Trims were updated and the V6 was dropped from the lineup in favor of a more powerful 2.0L turbo engine. Max towing for 2022 models ranges from 1,500 to 4,000 pounds depending on trim.
Real-World Towing Performance
While max tow ratings look great on paper, how does the Terrain V6 actually perform on the road? Here are some insights from actual owners:
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“I tow a 3,000 lb travel trailer with the V6 Terrain. It has no problem handling hills and highway speeds.”
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“We use our 2018 Terrain SLT to tow a boat/trailer weighing around 2,800 lbs. The power is impressive and it feels very stable.”
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“I tried towing right at the max 3,500 lb rating. It struggled a bit on steep inclines but overall handled it fine.”
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“Towed about 4,000 lbs once over a short distance. Not recommended, but it got the job done in a pinch.”
Overall, owners report the V6 Terrain provides solid towing capability – even at or slightly above its rated max capacity in some cases. Naturally, the heavier the load, the more the engine has to work. But the V6 puts out enough power to make towing mid-size recreational gear feel confident and secure.
Tips for Optimizing GMC Terrain V6 Towing
Here are a few useful tips to help optimize your towing experience with the V6 Terrain:
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Use tow/haul mode – This adjusts transmission shift points to improve power delivery when towing heavy loads.
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Watch your tongue weight – Try to keep it in the 10-15% range of total tow weight for ideal stability and handling.
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Load your cargo properly – Distribute weight appropriately and don’t exceed your vehicle’s capacities.
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Adjust your driving style – Accelerate, brake and steer more gradually when towing. Allow extra distance for maneuvers.
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Upgrade to an integrated trailer brake controller – This provides greater braking control compared to an aftermarket unit.
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Stick to the speed limit – Towing puts more strain on your vehicle, so don’t feel compelled to exceed speed limits.
Following these tips will allow you to tow smoothly, safely and with confidence using the GMC Terrain V6.
