2020 GMC Acadia Towing Capacity & Payload

The 2020 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
• Max Payload Capacity: 1,466 lbs
• GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): 5,550 lbs
• GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating): 8,500 lbs
• Curb Weight: 3,892 to 4,380 lbs
• Hitch Class: Class III (when properly equipped with the V6 engine and a factory tow package)

Tow ratings by engine & trim

The 2020 GMC Acadia offers a few engine options, which significantly impact its towing capabilities. The 2.5L and 2.0L Turbo engines are primarily designed for lighter loads, while the 3.6L V6 provides the most robust towing performance when equipped with the trailering package.

Note: Payload capacity can vary based on trim, options, and accessories. Always check the specific vehicle's door jamb sticker for the most accurate information.

Tow package contents

For the 2020 GMC Acadia, the Trailering Package (available with the 3.6L V6 engine) is crucial for achieving the maximum 4,000-pound tow rating. This package typically includes:

• Factory-installed hitch: A robust receiver capable of handling the rated tongue weight.
• 7-pin wiring harness: Provides connections for trailer lights, electric brakes, and auxiliary power.
• Heavy-duty cooling system: This often means an upgraded radiator and/or transmission cooler, essential for preventing overheating when towing.
• Trailer sway control: Integrated into the StabiliTrak electronic stability control system, this feature helps maintain control of the trailer in adverse conditions.

While a factory tow package provides key components, an integrated trailer brake controller is generally not included and would need to be installed as an aftermarket accessory for safely towing trailers equipped with electric brakes.

5th-wheel & gooseneck towing

The 2020 GMC Acadia is a mid-size SUV and is not designed for 5th-wheel or gooseneck towing. These types of trailers require a heavy-duty truck platform with a specific type of hitch installed in the truck bed. Attempting to tow a 5th-wheel or gooseneck trailer with an Acadia would be unsafe and could cause severe damage to the vehicle.

Weight distribution & WDH requirements

While the 2020 GMC Acadia with the 3.6L V6 and trailering package has a respectable 4,000-pound towing capacity, ensuring proper weight distribution is vital for safe towing, especially when approaching the upper limits of its capacity. A weight distribution hitch (WDH) is highly recommended, and often required, for trailers with a tongue weight exceeding 350-400 pounds. While GMC does not explicitly state a mandatory WDH requirement for the Acadia at a specific tongue weight, it is generally good practice to use one for any trailer that significantly impacts the vehicle's unladen stance. A WDH helps distribute the trailer's tongue weight more evenly across all axles of the tow vehicle and trailer, restoring proper steering, braking, and headlight aim.

Real-world towing tips for this vehicle

• Understand your actual weight: Don't just rely on the trailer's advertised dry weight. Factor in all cargo, water, and accessories. Use a local CAT scale to weigh your loaded vehicle and trailer.
• Balance your load: Load your trailer with approximately 60% of the cargo weight in the front half of the trailer to achieve the recommended tongue weight (typically 10-15% of the total trailer weight).
• Check tire pressure: Ensure your Acadia's tires, and your trailer's tires, are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended pressures for towing.
• Practice driving: Towing changes how your vehicle handles. Practice turning, braking, and backing up in a safe, open area before heading out on the road.
• Allow for extra stopping distance: A loaded trailer significantly increases the distance needed to stop.
• Monitor temperatures: Keep an eye on your engine and transmission temperature gauges, especially on inclines or hot days.
• Use tow/haul mode: If your Acadia is equipped with a tow/haul mode, engage it. This mode often modifies transmission shift points to reduce hunting for gears and provides more engine braking.

Common towing-related issues

• Overheating: Pushing the Acadia with a heavy load, especially in hot weather or hilly terrain, can lead to engine or transmission overheating. The heavy-duty cooling in the tow package helps mitigate this, but vigilance is still key.
• Sway: Incorrect tongue weight, high winds, or sudden maneuvers can lead to trailer sway, which can be dangerous. Trailer sway control helps, but proper loading and driving are paramount.
• Poor braking performance: Without an integrated brake controller for trailers with electric brakes, stopping distances will be significantly longer. Even with one, always anticipate and allow for more braking room.
• Suspension sag: Heavy tongue weights without a WDH can cause the rear of the Acadia to sag, affecting handling, headlight aim, and tire wear.

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