The Chevy Traverse is one of the most popular midsize SUVs, known for its family-friendly spacious interior and strong V6 engine. But how much can the 2023 Chevy Traverse actually tow? Here, we’ll take an in-depth look at the 2023 Traverse towing capacities.
Highlights of 2023 Chevy Traverse Towing Capacities
- Up to 5,000 lbs max towing capacity
- Factory tow package available
- Trailer sway control standard
- 7-pin wiring harness included
The 2023 Traverse can pull up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, making it suitable for towing smaller boats, campers, ATVs, snowmobiles, and utility trailers. A factory towing package is offered to maximize towing abilities.
What’s New for 2023 Chevy Traverse Towing?
The 2023 Chevy Traverse sees no major changes compared to the previous model year in regards to towing capacity or towing features. Towing capacities remain the same as the 2022 models.
The one minor change is the discontinuation of the base L trim, which had a lower 3,500 lb max tow rating. For 2023, all Traverse trims now have a standard 5,000 lb towing capacity when equipped with the trailering package.
Detailed Breakdown of 2023 Chevy Traverse Towing Limits
Here is a detailed breakdown of the maximum towing capacities by powertrain and trim level for the 2023 Chevy Traverse:
- LS, LT, RS trims – 5,000 lbs
- Requires trailering package
- 3.6L V6 engine
- 9-speed automatic transmission
- High Country trim – 5,000 lbs
- Requires trailering package
- 3.6L V6 engine
- 9-speed automatic transmission
The standard powertrain on all 2023 Chevy Traverse models is a 3.6L V6 engine producing 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission.
With this engine and transmission combo, all trim levels are capable of the max 5,000 lb tow rating when equipped with the available trailering package. This package includes a heavy-duty cooling system, trailer hitch, and wiring.
There are no engine upgrades available even on higher trims, so the towing capacity remains identical across the model range when properly equipped.
What Can a 2023 Chevy Traverse Tow?
With a max towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, the 2023 Chevy Traverse can tow a wide variety of small to midsize trailers and recreational vehicles. Here are some examples of what a properly equipped Traverse can tow:
- Small fishing boats (14-16 ft boats)
- Pop-up campers (typically 3,000-4,000 lbs)
- Small travel trailers (up to 5,000 lbs)
- Enclosed utility trailers
- 2-3 ATVs or motorcycles on a trailer
- Several personal watercraft like jet skis
- 5th wheel trailers (with a payload up to 5,000 lbs)
The Traverse may struggle to tow larger 5th wheel campers, bigger enclosed trailers over 5,000 lbs, or a full-size boat. But it can certainly handle most small to midsize recreational trailers.
Always double-check your trailer’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) to make sure it does not exceed the Traverse’s max tow rating. Also, be mindful of tongue weight capacities, which typically max out around 500-600 lbs for the Traverse.
2023 Chevy Traverse Towing Features
To give it solid towing capabilities for its class, the 2023 Chevy Traverse offers some helpful standard and available towing features:
Standard Towing Features
- Trailer sway control – uses ABS and stability control to reduce trailer sway
- 7-pin wiring harness – provides power to trailer lights
- Hitch guidance lines – aids hitching up trailers without a spotter
Available Towing Package
- Heavy-duty radiator and transmission cooling system
- Integrated trailer brake controller
- Rear load leveling suspension
- Class III hitch receiver
- Hitch zoom camera for hitch alignment
- Wiring for trailer lights
The trailering package is required to achieve the max 5,000 lb tow rating on all trims. It adds important cooling upgrades plus an integrated brake controller, making it easier to hook up and safely control trailers.
Tips for Towing with the Chevy Traverse
Here are some quick tips for safe and smooth towing with the 2023 Chevy Traverse:
- Verify tow rating – Double check your trailer does not exceed 5,000 lbs capacity
- Use a weight distribution hitch – Levels out trailer and vehicle load
- Check tongue weight – Ideal is 10-15% of total trailer weight
- Load trailer carefully – Balance weight evenly side to side
- Adjust driving habits – Accelerate/brake slowly and allow extra distance
- Check trailer lights – Test all lights are functioning before each trip
- Inspect hitch & tires – Make sure no damage or wear
- Prep for trailer sway – Be ready to gently accelerate to stabilize
- Use tow/haul mode – Optimizes transmission shifting
- Know your route – Check for steep grades or long ascents
- Carry tools/supplies – Spare tire, fluids, trailer aid, etc.
Following the Traverse’s tow ratings closely and using proper towing procedures will ensure you have a safe, stable towing experience. Always consult the owner’s manual for full instructions.
How Does the Traverse Towing Compare to Other Chevy SUVs?
The midsize Traverse sits in the middle of Chevy’s SUV lineup when it comes to towing capabilities. Here’s a quick look at how it compares:
- 2023 Equinox – Max 1,500 lb towing capacity
- 2023 Blazer – Max 4,500 lb towing capacity
- 2023 Traverse – Max 5,000 lb towing capacity
- 2023 Tahoe – Max 8,400 lb towing capacity
- 2023 Suburban – Max 8,300 lb towing capacity
The Traverse offers a decent 5,000 lb tow rating for a midsize crossover SUV. The smaller Equinox and Blazer have more limited capacities around 1,500-4,500 lbs. Full-size SUVs like the Tahoe and Suburban can tow over 8,000 lbs for serious towing duties.
So the Traverse strikes a good balance, able to tow small-medium sized boats, campers and trailers that fit its size and power. It gives owners plenty of versatility without requiring a large truck or full-size SUV.
FAQs on 2023 Chevy Traverse Towing
What is the lowest trim that can tow 5,000 lbs?
For the 2023 model year, all trim levels including LS, LT, RS, and High Country can tow up to 5,000 lbs when equipped with the trailering package.
What transmission does the Traverse use for towing?
All Traverse models come with a 9-speed automatic transmission that is optimized for towing capability when equipped properly.
Can I add a towing package after purchase?
Yes, the towing package can be added after purchase as a dealer accessory if you didn’t get it when ordering your Traverse. All components can still be installed for max towing.
Is the Traverse AWD better for towing?
The Traverse AWD option does not increase towing capacity. Tow ratings are the same for FWD and AWD models. However AWD may provide more traction when launching with a heavy trailer.
Can the Traverse tow a 5th wheel RV?
The Traverse does not have a fifth-wheel prep package. But it can tow a 5th wheel trailer as long as the king pin weight does not exceed the max tongue weight rating, and gross combined weight stays under limits.
Conclusion on 2023 Chevy Traverse Towing
While not built for extreme heavy duty towing, the versatile 2023 Chevy Traverse can reliably tow smaller boats, campers, ATV trailers and more – as long as you equip it properly and stay within the 5,000 lb towing capacity. Carefully matching your trailer, using a weight distribution hitch, and good towing practices will allow you to move up to medium-sized recreational toys with confidence.
Hopefully this detailed guide gives you a clear picture of the 2023 Traverse’s towing abilities. As always, consult your owner’s manual or trailer experts for any specifics on preparing your Traverse for towing. And contact us if you have any other questions!
