2025 Chevrolet Malibu — Towing Capacity & Payload

Quick answer

• Max towing capacity: 0 lb (not rated to tow in North America; Chevrolet does not approve trailer towing with the 2025 Malibu)
• Max payload: See the Tire and Loading Information label on the driver’s door jamb (varies by trim/options)
• GVWR: See the certification label on the driver’s door jamb (varies by trim/options)
• GCWR: Not published (no tow rating)
• Curb weight: Varies by trim/options; verify on the official GM spec sheet or the Monroney/window sticker for your VIN
• Hitch receiver class: No factory hitch. Aftermarket Class I (1.25 in) accessory receivers are available for cargo/bike racks; the vehicle’s trailer tow rating remains 0 lb. Tongue weight is limited by the lowest-rated component and is intended for accessories, not trailers.

How much can the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu tow? Chevrolet does not rate the 2025 Malibu for towing in North America, so its maximum towing capacity is 0 pounds. If you need to move a trailer, Chevrolet recommends using a properly equipped vehicle designed and rated for towing.

Tow ratings by engine & trim

The 2025 Malibu is a front-wheel-drive midsize sedan powered by a 1.5L turbocharged inline-4 paired with a CVT across all trims. Chevrolet does not publish a tow rating for any 2025 Malibu configuration.

Notes:

• SAE J2807: Not applicable. There is no manufacturer-approved tow rating for the 2025 Malibu to certify under SAE J2807.
• Always verify payload on the specific vehicle’s Tire and Loading Information label; it can vary with options, passengers, and cargo.

Tow package contents

There is no factory tow package available for the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu. As a result:

• Transmission cooler: No auxiliary tow-oriented cooler is offered beyond standard powertrain cooling.
• Integrated trailer brake controller: Not available.
• Trailer Sway Control: Malibu includes standard electronic stability control (StabiliTrak), but Chevrolet does not market a trailer-specific sway control feature for this model because towing is not approved.
• 4-pin/7-pin trailer wiring: Not offered from the factory. Aftermarket wiring harnesses exist for light accessory power needs, but they do not change the vehicle’s 0-lb tow rating.
• Hitch receiver: No factory receiver. Aftermarket Class I (1.25 in) receivers are commonly available for accessories (e.g., bike racks, small cargo carriers). They are weight-carrying only and must not be used to pull a trailer on a vehicle that is not rated to tow.

5th-wheel & gooseneck

Not applicable. The Malibu is a unibody passenger car that is not rated for towing of any type, and there are no provisions for 5th-wheel or gooseneck hitches.

Weight distribution & WDH requirements

• Weight-distribution hitches (WDH) are not applicable. The Malibu is not approved to tow, and aftermarket Class I receivers are weight-carrying only (no WDH).
• If you’re using a hitch-mounted accessory (bike rack or cargo platform), respect the accessory’s tongue weight rating, the hitch rating, and the vehicle’s payload label. The limiting factor is the lowest-rated component. Dynamic loads (bumps, leverage from long racks) can approach limits quickly—keep weights conservative and review the rack maker’s guidelines about using hitch extenders or adapters (generally discouraged).

Real-world towing tips for this vehicle

While you should not tow a trailer with a 2025 Malibu, many owners do add a hitch for non-trailer accessories. Keep these points in mind:

• Check payload before loading: The Tire and Loading Information label on the driver’s door jamb lists maximum combined weight of occupants and cargo. The weight of a hitch-mounted rack and everything on it counts against payload, as do passengers and items in the trunk.
• Prioritize weight distribution: Keep cargo low and as close to the bumper as practical to reduce leverage and porpoising. Avoid long extensions or high, cantilevered loads.
• Watch clearances: The Malibu sits lower than trucks/SUVs; ensure adequate ground clearance for hitch-mounted platforms when entering/exiting driveways.
• Tires and pressures: Run at the door-jamb recommended cold pressures and ensure your tires are load-index appropriate and in good condition; replace if worn or aged.
• Cooling and grades: Long grades, heat, and heavy payloads increase thermal stress. Give the powertrain breaks as needed and avoid sustained high-load operation.
• Brakes: Added payload increases stopping distances. Keep rotors and pads in good condition and avoid riding the brakes on descents.

Common towing-related issues

• Powertrain stress/overheating: Pulling a trailer against manufacturer guidance can overheat the CVT and may lead to premature wear or failure.
• Rear suspension sag and bottoming: Excessive tongue weight (even from cargo platforms) can compress the rear suspension and alter handling. Keep loads modest and within payload limits.
• Electrical issues: Improperly installed aftermarket wiring can cause faults or moisture intrusion. Use vehicle-specific harnesses and professional installation.
• Warranty and liability: Towing when the manufacturer forbids it can affect warranty coverage and expose you to liability in an accident. When in doubt, use a rental truck or a vehicle designed and rated for towing.

If you require trailer capability, consider a Chevrolet model that is rated for towing (e.g., Equinox, Blazer, Traverse, Colorado, or Silverado) and verify tow ratings on the specific VIN’s door-jamb labels and owner’s manual. For vehicles that do carry tow ratings, prefer SAE J2807-certified figures.

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