2023 Chevrolet Equinox Towing Capacity & Payload Guide

The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox can tow a maximum of 1,500 pounds across all trims and drivetrains when properly equipped. As a compact crossover, the Equinox is designed for light-duty hauling, making it suitable for towing small utility trailers, a lightweight teardrop camper, or a couple of jet skis, rather than heavy loads. Always verify your specific vehicle's capability using the tire and loading information label located on the driver's side door jamb.

Quick answer: 2023 Chevrolet Equinox Towing Specs

Here is a quick breakdown of the maximum capacities for the 2023 Equinox (varies slightly by drivetrain and trim):

• Max Tow Capacity: 1,500 lbs
• Max Payload Capacity: 1,114 lbs to 1,190 lbs
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): 4,464 lbs (FWD) to 4,630 lbs (AWD)
• Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): 5,247 lbs
• Curb Weight: 3,274 lbs (FWD) to 3,478 lbs (AWD)
• Hitch Class & Tongue Weight: Class I or II receiver, max tongue weight of 150 lbs (10% of max tow capacity)

Tow ratings by engine & trim

For the 2023 model year, Chevrolet simplified the Equinox powertrain lineup to a single engine: a 1.5L Turbocharged 4-cylinder mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Because of this, the towing capacity is a flat 1,500 pounds across the board, though payload varies slightly depending on whether you choose Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) or All-Wheel Drive (AWD).

Note: Chevrolet tests its vehicles using the SAE J2807 towing standard. Always refer to your owner's manual and the door-jamb sticker to confirm the exact payload and GVWR for your specific build.

Tow package contents

Unlike full-size trucks or large SUVs, the 2023 Chevrolet Equinox does not offer a heavy-duty factory "Max Trailering Package" with integrated brake controllers or transmission coolers. Towing equipment for the Equinox is generally basic and often installed at the dealer level. A standard tow setup for the Equinox includes:

• Hitch Receiver: A 1.25-inch or 2-inch receiver bolted to the frame.
• Wiring Harness: A standard 4-pin flat connector to operate basic trailer lights (brake, turn signals, and running lights).
• Trailer Sway Control: Handled electronically through Chevrolet’s StabiliTrak electronic stability control system, which senses trailer sway and can apply individual vehicle brakes to help bring the trailer back into line.
• Note: The Equinox does not include a 7-pin connector or an integrated trailer brake controller, as 1,500-pound trailers typically do not utilize electric brakes.

5th-wheel & gooseneck

Because the 2023 Chevrolet Equinox is a compact unibody SUV, it is fundamentally incompatible with 5th-wheel or gooseneck hitches. These types of hitches are strictly reserved for heavy-duty pickup trucks with open beds.

Weight distribution & WDH requirements

Weight Distribution Hitches (WDH) are commonly used to level out tow vehicles and trailers when towing heavy loads. However, for a vehicle with a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 lbs and a maximum tongue weight of just 150 lbs, a weight distribution hitch is neither required nor recommended. In fact, installing a WDH on a lightweight unibody frame like the Equinox can sometimes cause unnecessary stress to the vehicle’s structure. A standard weight-carrying hitch is all you need.

Real-world towing tips for this vehicle

If you are planning to tow with your 2023 Equinox, keep these real-world tips in mind to protect your powertrain and stay safe on the road:

• Mind the Payload: Remember that the tongue weight of your trailer (up to 150 lbs) subtracts directly from your vehicle's payload capacity. If you have four adults and luggage in the Equinox, you may exceed your GVWR before you even hit the 1,500 lb trailer limit.
• Keep it Aerodynamic: The 1.5L engine produces 175 horsepower. Towing a tall, boxy trailer creates massive aerodynamic drag at highway speeds, which can strain the engine far more than a low-profile trailer of the same weight.
• Allow Extra Braking Distance: Without trailer brakes, your Equinox is solely responsible for stopping both its own weight and the trailer. Leave plenty of following distance.
• Use Manual Shifting on Hills: Use the electronic range select (manual mode) on your shifter to hold lower gears when climbing hills or descending steep grades to prevent transmission hunting and brake fade.

Common towing-related issues

When pushing a compact SUV to its limits, wear and tear accelerate. Common issues Equinox owners face when towing frequently include:

• Premature Brake Wear: The front and rear brake pads will wear out significantly faster when stopping an extra 1,500 lbs regularly.
• Transmission Heat: While the 6-speed automatic is reliable, towing in high temperatures or up steep grades can raise transmission fluid temperatures. Consider more frequent transmission fluid changes if you tow often.
• Rear Suspension Sag: Maxing out the 150-pound tongue weight along with a trunk full of cargo can cause the rear suspension to squat, slightly impacting steering feel and headlight alignment.

Need to get a hitch installed, inspect your brakes before a trip, or service your transmission? Find a trusted shop on Repairius.