2020 Chevrolet Malibu Towing Capacity & Payload Guide

Quick Answer

Max Towing Capacity: Not recommended for towing Max Payload: 1,126 lbs GVWR: 4,123 - 4,321 lbs GCWR: Not applicable Curb Weight: 3,082 - 3,223 lbs Hitch Class: Not recommended for towing

Tow Ratings by Engine & Trim

The 2020 Chevrolet Malibu is not rated for towing by the manufacturer. Chevrolet does not recommend using the Malibu for towing, as it is not designed or equipped for such purposes. Therefore, there are no official towing capacities, tow packages, or related accessories offered for this vehicle.

Tow Package Contents

As the 2020 Chevrolet Malibu is not designed for towing, there are no factory-installed tow packages or related components available. This means you won't find features like a transmission cooler, integrated brake controller, or specialized trailer sway control systems from the factory.

5th-Wheel & Gooseneck

The 2020 Chevrolet Malibu is a mid-size sedan and is not designed for any type of 5th-wheel or gooseneck towing. These types of hitches are exclusively for heavy-duty trucks and specialized towing vehicles.

Weight Distribution & WDH Requirements

Since the 2020 Chevrolet Malibu is not rated for towing, there are no requirements or recommendations for weight distribution hitches (WDH). Attempting to use a WDH on a vehicle not designed for towing could potentially cause damage or create unsafe driving conditions.

Real-World Towing Tips for This Vehicle

Because the 2020 Chevrolet Malibu is not recommended for towing by the manufacturer, it is strongly advised not to use it for this purpose. Sedans like the Malibu are designed for passenger transport and light cargo, not for the stresses and demands of towing. Attempting to tow with a Malibu could lead to:

• Vehicle Damage: Overheating of the engine or transmission, strain on the chassis, brakes, and suspension.
• Safety Hazards: Reduced braking performance, compromised steering and handling, potential for trailer sway, and increased stopping distances.
• Voided Warranty: Towing against manufacturer recommendations could void parts of your vehicle's warranty.

If you need to transport items that exceed the Malibu's cargo capacity, consider options such as roof racks for light, appropriately sized items, or a utility trailer pulled by a properly equipped towing vehicle. For larger hauling needs, renting a truck or using a delivery service would be safer alternatives.

Common Towing-Related Issues

Given that the 2020 Chevrolet Malibu is not designed for towing, any attempt to tow with it would likely lead to common issues associated with overloading a vehicle not rated for towing. These can include:

• Transmission Overheating: The transmission is not built to handle the extra strain of pulling a trailer.
• Brake Fade: The braking system is designed for the vehicle's curb weight and payload, not for an additional towed load.
• Suspension Sag/Damage: The suspension components are not robust enough to support the tongue weight of a trailer, leading to sag and potential damage.
• Engine Strain: The engine may struggle to maintain speed, especially on inclines, leading to overheating and premature wear.
• Steering and Handling Issues: The vehicle's dynamics will be significantly altered, making it difficult to control, particularly at higher speeds or in adverse weather conditions.
• Tire Wear: Uneven and accelerated tire wear due to increased load and altered weight distribution.

These issues can be costly to repair and, more importantly, can create dangerous driving conditions for you and others on the road.

Find a trusted shop on Repairius.