2022 GMC Acadia Towing Capacity & Payload

The 2022 GMC Acadia can tow between 1,000 lbs and 4,000 lbs, depending on its engine, drivetrain, and specific configuration.

Quick Answer

• Max Towing Capacity: 4,000 lbs (with 3.6L V6 and Trailering Package)
• Max Payload Capacity: 1,471-1,657 lbs (varies by configuration)
• GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): 5,550 lbs
• GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating): 9,500 lbs (with 3.6L V6 and Trailering Package)
• Curb Weight: 3,939 lbs - 4,342 lbs (varies by configuration)
• Hitch Class: Class II (V6 engine with Trailering Package)
• Max Tongue Weight: 400 lbs (with V6 and Trailering Package)

Tow Ratings by Engine & Trim

To achieve the maximum towing capacity of the 2022 GMC Acadia, the optional Trailering Package is essential, particularly with the 3.6L V6 engine. Without this package, towing capacity is significantly reduced. GMC adheres to SAE J2807 towing standards, ensuring realistic and comparable ratings.

Note: Payload capacity can vary based on trim level, optional equipment, and specific vehicle configuration. Always refer to the tire and loading information sticker on the driver's side door jamb for your vehicle's exact payload capacity.

Tow Package Contents

The Trailering Package (RPO code V92) is crucial for maximizing the 2022 GMC Acadia's towing capabilities. This package typically includes:

• Heavy-Duty Cooling System: Essential for maintaining optimal engine and transmission temperatures when under stress from towing.
• Factory-Installed Class II Hitch Receiver: Provides the necessary attachment point for your trailer, rated for up to 4,000 lbs.
• 7-Pin Wiring Harness: This provides electrical connections for trailer lights, brakes (if equipped with a trailer brake controller), and potentially auxiliary power.
• Hitch Guidance with Hitch View: This camera-based system assists the driver in aligning the vehicle with the trailer hitch, simplifying the hook-up process.
• Trailer Sway Control (part of StabiliTrak): While not a separate, dedicated system in the Acadia, the standard StabiliTrak stability control system incorporates trailer sway control that automatically intervenes with braking and/or engine power reduction to help mitigate trailer sway.

An integrated trailer brake controller is not typically included as a factory option on the 2022 GMC Acadia. If your trailer has electric brakes, an aftermarket trailer brake controller will be necessary.

5th-Wheel & Gooseneck Towing

As a mid-size SUV, the 2022 GMC Acadia is not designed or rated for 5th-wheel or gooseneck towing. These types of trailers are significantly heavier and require a much different hitch setup, typically found on heavy-duty pickup trucks.

Weight Distribution & WDH Requirements

For trailers weighing more than 1,000 lbs, particularly when approaching the Acadia's maximum 4,000 lb capacity, using a Weight Distributing Hitch (WDH) is highly recommended. A WDH helps to distribute the trailer's tongue weight more evenly across all axles of both the tow vehicle and the trailer, improving stability, braking performance, and ride quality. This helps prevent excessive sag at the rear of the Acadia and reduces lift at the front axle.

While not strictly "required" by GMC for all towing up to 4,000 lbs, it is considered a best practice for safety and towing comfort, especially with travel trailers or enclosed cargo trailers that have significant wind resistance.

Real-World Towing Tips for This Vehicle

• Check Your Payload: Remember that the total weight of occupants, cargo, and the trailer's tongue weight counts against your vehicle's payload capacity. Do not exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or the payload limit.
• Proper Trailer Loading: Distribute weight within your trailer properly, aiming for 10-15% of the total trailer weight on the hitch as tongue weight. Too little tongue weight can cause sway, while too much can overload the rear of the Acadia.
• Tire Pressure: Ensure your Acadia's tires, as well as the trailer's tires, are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended pressures for towing, typically found in your owner's manual or on a sticker near the driver's door.
• Brake Controller: If your trailer has electric brakes, a properly installed and adjusted aftermarket trailer brake controller is absolutely essential for safe towing.
• Practice: If you're new to towing, practice in a safe, open area before heading out on the road. Practice turning, backing up, and braking.
• Maintenance: Before any towing trip, ensure your Acadia is in good mechanical condition, especially checking brakes, tires, and fluid levels.
• Take It Easy: Drive at a reduced speed, allow for greater stopping distances, and be mindful of crosswinds and road conditions.

Common Towing-Related Issues

Owners of the 2022 GMC Acadia who tow may encounter the following common issues if not properly prepared or if exceeding capacities:

• Reduced Performance: Even with the V6, towing near the maximum capacity will result in slower acceleration and more frequent downshifts, especially on inclines.
• Transmission Heat: While the heavy-duty cooling system helps, prolonged heavy towing in hot climates or mountainous terrain can still put a strain on the transmission. Regular transmission fluid checks and changes are crucial.
• Brake Wear: The added weight of a trailer significantly increases the demands on your vehicle's brakes, leading to faster wear. Ensure your brakes are in excellent condition before towing.
• Sway: Improper trailer loading, high speeds, or strong crosswinds can lead to trailer sway, which can be dangerous. A WDH and proper tongue weight are key to minimizing this.
• Rear Sag: Without a WDH, heavy tongue weight can cause the rear of the Acadia to sag, affecting steering and headlight aim.

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