When people ask how much can a 2023 Chevrolet Traverse tow, they are really asking if this family SUV can handle more than just carpools and grocery runs. The Traverse is not only known for its comfortable interior and modern technology but also for its surprising towing muscle. Families who love road trips, outdoor camping, or water sports want a vehicle that can take them beyond the city limits without compromise. That’s where the towing capacity of the 2023 Chevrolet Traverse becomes the real game-changer.

Table of Key Towing Specs for the 2023 Chevrolet Traverse

Feature	Specification
Maximum Towing Capacity	5,000 lbs with trailering package
Standard Towing Capacity	1,500 lbs without package
Engine	3.6L V6
Horsepower	310 hp
Torque	266 lb-ft
Transmission	9-speed automatic
Normal Fuel Economy	18 city / 27 highway mpg
Towing Fuel Economy	14–17 mpg (average)
Drivetrain Options	FWD or AWD
Trailering Package	Cooling system, Tow/Haul mode, Hitch Guidance

Towing Capacity – The Numbers You Need to Know

The official answer to how much can a 2023 Chevrolet Traverse tow is 5,000 pounds when the vehicle is equipped with Chevrolet’s optional trailering package. This package enhances the SUV’s towing ability and ensures that the Traverse is prepared for medium-duty hauling. Without the trailering package, the Traverse still offers a respectable towing limit of 1,500 pounds, which works well for small loads, utility trailers, or a pair of jet skis.

This difference is critical to understand because many buyers assume that every Traverse automatically offers maximum towing strength. The truth is that the trailering package makes all the difference, allowing the SUV to stretch its capabilities to their fullest.

The Powertrain That Makes Towing Possible

To truly understand how much can a 2023 Chevrolet Traverse tow, you need to look under the hood. The Traverse runs on a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces an impressive 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. Combined with a smooth 9-speed automatic transmission, the Traverse balances everyday driving comfort with the raw pulling power needed for trailers, boats, and campers.

This setup allows the Traverse to deliver smooth acceleration on highways, even when carrying heavy loads. The engine is built to handle both passengers and gear, making it a reliable companion whether you’re heading to school drop-offs or towing a camper into the mountains.

Why the Trailering Package Matters

Many people wonder why Chevrolet emphasizes the trailering package when discussing how much can a 2023 Chevrolet Traverse tow. The answer is simple: safety and performance. This package adds a heavy-duty cooling system that keeps the engine temperature stable while pulling weight. It also includes a hitch guidance system with Hitch View, which helps drivers line up their trailer connection with ease. On top of that, the Tow/Haul mode fine-tunes gear shifts so the SUV maintains control on steep roads and highways.

Without this package, the Traverse is functional but limited. With it, the SUV turns into a capable weekend adventure machine.

Real-World Examples of Towing with the 2023 Traverse

Numbers alone don’t always answer how much can a 2023 Chevrolet Traverse tow. Real-world examples make the picture clearer. Imagine heading to the lake with a 3,000-pound fishing boat behind you—the Traverse manages this with confidence. If your family loves camping, a pop-up camper weighing between 2,800 and 3,500 pounds is well within range. For families with ATVs, loading them onto a small trailer and pulling them into the woods becomes a stress-free task.

Even heavier travel trailers around 4,500 to 5,000 pounds are possible when properly equipped. However, it’s worth noting that the Traverse is not designed for giant fifth-wheel campers or large horse trailers. This SUV hits the sweet spot for moderate recreational towing without venturing into the heavy-duty truck category.

Fuel Economy While Towing

Whenever drivers ask how much can a 2023 Chevrolet Traverse tow, the next logical concern is fuel economy. Normally, the Traverse offers 18 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. However, when towing, these numbers drop to around 14–17 mpg depending on the weight, terrain, and driving style. While that decrease may seem sharp, it’s quite normal across the midsize SUV class. The Traverse balances power and efficiency better than larger V8 competitors, making it a more practical everyday option.

Safety Features That Support Towing

Chevrolet didn’t just think about power when designing the Traverse—they prioritized safety. Advanced systems like StabiliTrak® Electronic Stability Control and Trailer Sway Control help keep trailers steady on the highway. The Rear Vision Camera with Hitch Guidance makes connecting a trailer less stressful, while all-wheel drive availability ensures better grip on wet or snowy roads. These features turn towing into a safer and more predictable experience, especially for families who may be new to hauling trailers.

Comparing the Traverse with Its Rivals

A full understanding of how much can a 2023 Chevrolet Traverse tow requires looking at its competition. The Ford Explorer slightly edges out the Traverse with a maximum rating of 5,600 pounds. The Toyota Highlander matches the Traverse at 5,000 pounds, while the Honda Pilot also equals that figure. The Kia Telluride goes up to 5,500 pounds, putting it a little higher on the chart.

This shows that the Traverse sits comfortably in the middle of the midsize SUV towing segment. While not the absolute strongest, it balances towing ability with interior comfort and reliability, which is exactly what many families need.

Comfort on the Road While Towing

A big part of the Traverse’s appeal is that you don’t sacrifice comfort while towing. The SUV seats seven or eight passengers across three rows, meaning everyone can come along on the adventure. The interior remains quiet even on long road trips, and plenty of USB ports keep everyone entertained. Parents towing a camper can still relax in plush seats while the kids enjoy streaming shows in the back. This blend of comfort and towing ability makes the Traverse unique in its segment.

Advanced Tech Features for Towing

Technology makes a major difference when exploring how much can a 2023 Chevrolet Traverse tow. Features like Adaptive Cruise Control maintain safe distances while towing, and Forward Collision Alert ensures you’re prepared for sudden stops. The Hitch Guidance camera view turns connecting a trailer into a simple task, saving time and frustration. These features make towing less intimidating for families who might otherwise shy away from it.

Final Thoughts – How Much Can a 2023 Chevrolet Traverse Tow?

At the end of the day, the question how much can a 2023 Chevrolet Traverse tow has a clear answer: up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. That makes it a practical choice for families who want an SUV that does more than carry kids and groceries. Whether it’s towing a boat to the lake, hauling a camper into the mountains, or bringing ATVs for a weekend adventure, the Traverse proves to be a versatile option.

It’s not built for heavy commercial loads, but that’s not the point. The Traverse is about balance—comfort, technology, and towing ability—all in one family-friendly package. If you need an SUV that can handle your daily life and your weekend adventures, the 2023 Chevrolet Traverse delivers exactly that.

FAQs About the Towing Capacity of the 2023 Chevrolet Traverse

How much can a 2023 Chevrolet Traverse tow without the trailering package?

Without the package, the Traverse can tow up to 1,500 pounds, perfect for smaller trailers.

How much can a 2023 Chevrolet Traverse tow with the trailering package?

With the package, the Traverse reaches its full 5,000-pound capacity.

Can a 2023 Traverse tow a camper?

Yes, it can handle small to medium campers weighing up to 5,000 pounds.

Is AWD necessary for towing with the Traverse?

AWD isn’t required but provides better control in wet or snowy conditions.

Does towing affect the Traverse’s engine durability?

As long as drivers stay within limits and use the trailering package, the Traverse handles towing without long-term issues.