2019 GMC Acadia Towing Capacity & Payload

How much can a 2019 GMC Acadia tow? The 2019 GMC Acadia can tow between 1,000 and 4,000 pounds, depending on the engine, drivetrain, and specific configuration.

Quick Answer

• Max Towing Capacity: 4,000 lbs (with 3.6L V6 and Trailering Package)
• Max Payload Capacity: 1,473 lbs
• GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): 5,595 – 5,886 lbs
• GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating): 9,500 lbs (with Trailering Package)
• Curb Weight: 3,956 – 4,357 lbs
• Hitch Class: Class III (with Trailering Package), allowing for a maximum tongue weight of 400 lbs.

Tow Ratings by Engine & Trim

To achieve the maximum towing capacity, the 2019 GMC Acadia requires the 3.6L V6 engine and the factory-installed Trailering Package. Without this package, capacities are significantly lower. Always check your specific vehicle's door jamb sticker for precise ratings.

Payload capacity can vary slightly by trim and options. These figures represent the maximum possible payload and are general guidelines. Always consult your vehicle's specific door jamb sticker for the exact payload capacity of your Acadia.

Tow Package Contents

The crucial element for maximizing the 2019 GMC Acadia's towing capability is the Trailering Package (RPO code V92). This package includes several essential components designed to enhance safety and performance when towing:

• Factory-installed Hitch Receiver: A Class III hitch receiver, rated for the Acadia's maximum towing capacity and a tongue weight of 400 lbs.
• 7-Pin Wiring Harness: This provides electrical connections for trailer lights (running, brake, turn signals) and is also necessary for charging a trailer battery and activating an aftermarket or integrated trailer brake controller.
• Heavy-Duty Cooling System/Transmission Cooler: Helps maintain optimal transmission fluid temperatures, especially under the added stress of towing. This is vital for preventing overheating and premature wear of the transmission.
• Trailer Sway Control: An integrated feature of the StabiliTrak stability control system. It detects and automatically works to counteract trailer sway by selectively applying the vehicle's brakes and/or reducing engine power.

While the 2019 Acadia does not offer an integrated trailer brake controller from the factory, the 7-pin wiring harness provides the necessary connection points for installing an aftermarket brake controller, which is highly recommended or legally required for trailers exceeding a certain weight.

5th-Wheel & Gooseneck

As a mid-size SUV, the 2019 GMC Acadia is not designed nor rated for 5th-wheel or gooseneck towing. These types of hitches are exclusively for heavy-duty trucks and require a much more robust frame, suspension, and driveline than the Acadia offers.

Weight Distribution & WDH Requirements

For trailers approaching the upper limits of the 2019 Acadia's towing capacity (especially those nearing or exceeding 2,000 lbs, or with a substantial tongue weight), a Weight Distributing Hitch (WDH) is strongly recommended. A WDH helps distribute the trailer's tongue weight more evenly across all axles of both the tow vehicle and the trailer, rather than concentrating it solely on the Acadia's rear axle. This can lead to:

• Improved steering and braking control
• Reduced squat at the rear of the Acadia
• A more level ride for both the vehicle and trailer
• Enhanced stability and a more comfortable towing experience

Always follow the WDH manufacturer's instructions for proper setup and adjustment. Ensure the combined weight of your trailer and its contents, as well as the tongue weight, remain within your Acadia's specified limits.

Real-World Towing Tips for this Vehicle

• Know Your Weights: Before every trip, weigh your loaded trailer and ensure you are within the Acadia's maximum towing capacity, payload capacity, GVWR, and GCWR. Don't forget to account for passengers and cargo inside the Acadia.
• Check Tire Pressure: Inflate your Acadia's tires and the trailer's tires to the pressures recommended for towing, typically found on the driver's door jamb (for the Acadia) and on the trailer itself.
• Brake Controller: For trailers with electric brakes, an aftermarket trailer brake controller is essential for safe towing. It allows you to control the trailer's brakes independently.
• Pre-Trip Inspection: Always perform a thorough pre-trip inspection, including checking lights, tire pressure, lug nuts, fluid levels, and hitch connections.
• Drive Conservatively: Allow for increased braking distances, accelerate gently, and avoid sudden maneuvers. Maintain a safe speed. Engage "Tow/Haul" mode if your Acadia is equipped with it, as it modifies transmission shift points to reduce hunting for gears.
• Allow for Extra Passing Room: Due to the added length and weight, passing other vehicles requires more time and space.
• Watch Temperatures: Keep an eye on your engine temperature gauge, especially on long grades or in hot weather. The heavy-duty cooling system helps, but it's still important to monitor.

Common Towing-Related Issues

Owners of the 2019 GMC Acadia, especially when towing near maximum capacity, might encounter a few common issues:

• Transmission Heat: Even with the heavy-duty cooling system, prolonged towing in hilly terrain or hot weather can still put a strain on the transmission. Ensure proper fluid levels and consider regular transmission fluid changes.
• Reduced Fuel Economy: Towing significantly increases aerodynamic drag and engine load, leading to a noticeable drop in fuel efficiency.
• Brake Wear: The added weight of a trailer will increase the wear on your Acadia's brakes. Regular inspections and maintenance, including rotor and pad replacement as needed, are important.
• Sagging Rear Suspension: Without a WDH, heavy tongue weight can cause the rear of the Acadia to squat. This can negatively impact handling, headlight aim, and tire wear.

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