2020 Chevrolet Equinox Towing Capacity & Payload Guide

The 2020 Chevrolet Equinox can tow between 1,500 and 3,500 pounds when properly equipped, depending largely on which engine is under the hood. As a popular compact SUV, the Equinox isn't built to haul massive fifth-wheel trailers, but it is highly capable of pulling small boats, utility trailers, and lightweight campers if you choose the right configuration. Always check your specific vehicle's door-jamb sticker to verify your exact ratings, as equipment and trim levels affect the final numbers.

Quick answer

Here is a snapshot of the 2020 Chevrolet Equinox's towing and hauling capabilities:

• Max Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs (with 2.0L engine and factory tow package)
• Max Payload Capacity: 1,114 lbs to 1,240 lbs (depending on trim and drivetrain)
• GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): 4,464 lbs to 4,630 lbs
• GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating): 5,247 lbs (1.5L) up to 7,650 lbs (2.0L)
• Curb Weight: 3,274 lbs to 3,512 lbs
• Hitch Class: Class II (1.25-inch or 2-inch receiver depending on aftermarket/factory setup)
• Max Tongue Weight: 150 lbs (for 1,500 lb capacity) to 350 lbs (for 3,500 lb capacity)

Tow ratings by engine & trim

For the 2020 model year, Chevrolet dropped the diesel engine option, leaving two turbocharged gas engines. The tow rating is primarily dictated by the engine rather than the drivetrain (FWD vs. AWD), though AWD models will have slightly lower payload capacities due to their higher curb weight. Ratings are compliant with SAE J2807 standards.

Note: The 2.0L engine requires the V92 Trailering Equipment Package to achieve the 3,500-pound maximum rating.

Tow package contents

To reach the 3,500-pound towing capacity on the 2.0L Equinox, you need the factory-installed Trailering Equipment Package (RPO code V92). This package is designed to handle the extra thermal load and physical stress of towing.

The V92 Trailering Package typically includes:

• Class II Hitch Receiver: A factory-integrated 2-inch receiver.
• 7-Pin Wiring Harness: Pre-wired for trailer lighting and accessories (some dealer installs may adapt to a 4-pin flat depending on your needs).
• Heavy-Duty Cooling System: An upgraded radiator and engine oil cooler to prevent overheating on long grades.
• Trailer Sway Control: Integrated into the Equinox’s StabiliTrak electronic stability control system to apply individual brakes if the trailer begins to sway.
• Note: An integrated trailer brake controller is not available from the factory on the Equinox, so if you are towing a trailer with electric brakes (highly recommended near the 3,500-lb limit), you will need to install an aftermarket brake controller.

5th-wheel & gooseneck

Because the 2020 Chevrolet Equinox is a compact unibody SUV, it does not support 5th-wheel or gooseneck towing. These setups are strictly reserved for heavy-duty (HD) and half-ton pickup trucks with a traditional bed and frame designed for over-axle pin weights.

Weight distribution & WDH requirements

For the 2020 Equinox, Chevrolet generally does not require a Weight Distribution Hitch (WDH) for towing up to the 3,500-pound maximum limit. The factory hitch and unibody structure are engineered to handle the maximum 350-pound tongue weight directly on a standard weight-carrying ball mount.

However, keeping your trailer balanced is critical. Aim for 10% to 15% of the loaded trailer weight on the tongue. If your trailer causes excessive rear-end sag, you may need to reorganize your cargo. Always consult your owner's manual before attempting to use a WDH on a compact SUV, as some unibody designs can be stressed by the leverage of weight distribution bars.

Real-world towing tips for this vehicle

• Watch the Transmission: The 2.0L engine uses a 9-speed automatic, while the 1.5L uses a 6-speed. When towing, especially in hilly terrain, use the "L" (Low) gear selector to manually limit the highest gear. This prevents the transmission from constantly "hunting" for gears and overheating.
• Factor in Payload: Remember that the tongue weight of your trailer counts against your Equinox's payload capacity. If you have a 3,500-lb trailer with a 350-lb tongue weight, and your max payload is 1,114 lbs, you only have 764 lbs left for passengers and cargo inside the SUV.
• Braking Distance: The Equinox is a relatively light vehicle. Towing 3,500 pounds essentially doubles the weight your brakes have to stop. Give yourself plenty of following distance.
• Tire Pressure: Ensure your rear tires are inflated to the maximum recommended pressure on the door placard to handle the extra tongue weight safely.

Common towing-related issues

When towing with a 2020 Equinox, owners should be aware of a few potential stress points:

• Turbo and Transmission Heat: Pushing a compact crossover to its towing limits on steep grades during hot weather can cause coolant or transmission fluid temperatures to spike. If your temperature gauge climbs, slow down, turn off the A/C, and downshift.
• Rear Suspension Squat: Because it is tuned for passenger comfort, heavy tongue weights can cause the rear suspension to compress significantly, altering headlight aim and reducing front-wheel traction.
• Premature Brake Wear: Without an aftermarket trailer brake controller, the Equinox's factory brakes are doing all the work to stop the trailer, leading to rapid wear on brake pads and rotors.

Before hitting the road with a trailer, ensure your Equinox is in top mechanical condition, particularly the transmission fluid, coolant, and brakes.

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