Most car buyers know what to do. See EPA window sticker. Check the cubic feet of the trunk. See 0-60 time and horsepower figures. These numbers will tell you whether a sedan can fit a golf club or whether a sports car will embarrass you in a stoplight race. They are special. They promote gold.
But there are some numbers that aren’t being shouted from the rooftops. Anything that doesn’t fit the datasheet title. Get the Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR). If you plan on towing, this number is more important than the maximum horsepower of the engine. Ignoring this will not only void your warranty. It’s like playing Russian roulette with the transmission and asphalt.
What exactly is GCWR?
Understand the terminology. GCWR is the specific weight limit set by the manufacturer. This represents the maximum permissible gross weight of a loaded trailer attached to a loaded tow vehicle plus. It’s simple enough. But this is where people stumble. This does not measure your “current” weight. This is a hard ceiling. The total weight of your equipment must not exceed this limit.
Think of it this way. You probably already know about gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). This is the maximum weight of the vehicle itself, including passengers, cargo and fuel. GCWR is an improved version of GVWR. Add a trailer to the equation.
Ford Motor Company clearly breaks the calculations. You can find the limit by adding:
– Vehicle weight
– Allow payload
– Weight of driver and passenger
– Trailer weight (including luggage in the vehicle)
GCWR is not the actual value of the current rig’s weight. This is the maximum weight limit set by the manufacturer for safety reasons.
Why are there restrictions?
Is this just corporate responsibility? perhaps. But mostly physics. Overloading the tractor is dangerous. Combination overload? This is a recipe for disaster.
When you exceed the GCWR, many things can go wrong at once.
–Brake failure. The tractor brakes must stop both masses. It overheats. It fades. You lose the ability to slow down.
– Tire blowouts. The tires have a load rating. When you drive over them, the rubber touches the road in the most violent way.
– Drivetrain destruction. It becomes more difficult to use the engine and gearbox. Heat builds up. The oil deteriorates. Parts bend or break.
– The Suspension collapse.The springs and shock absorbers are adjusted according to the range. If you exceed the GCWR, you lose control.
In fact, overloading can cause various mechanical failures. Never exceed the vehicle’s GCWR. This is a safety measure, not a recommendation.
Where to find the number
Before you hook up that boat or RV, you need to know your limits. Where is it written? Look inside the driver’s door frame. There is a label near the latch. GVWR and usually GCWR are listed. If you can’t find your sticker, check the manufacturer’s website. Most brands post this information online.
Knowledge buffs may find GCWR tables for various makes and models useful. Below are numbers for Acura and Audi models from the late 2000s. Note that many entries are blank or have dashes, meaning no towing rating or information is given.
Acura GCWR (2006-2009)
| Year | Model | GCWR (pounds) |
|---|---|---|
| 2006 | MDX | 8,121 |
| 2006 | RL | 5.162 |
| 2006 | RSX | 4,384 |
| 2006 | TL | 4,730 |
| 2006 | TSX | – |
| 2007 | MDX | 10.053 |
| 2007 | RL | 5.164 |
| 2007 | RDX | 6,394 |
| 2007 | TL | 4.773 |
| 2007 | TSX | 4,407 |
| 2008 | MDX | 10.053 |
| 2008 | RL | 5.164 |
| 2008 | RSX | 6,394 |
| 2008 | TL | 4.773 |
| 2008 | TSX | 4,407 |
| 2009 | MDX | 10.053 |
| 2009 | RL | 5.233 |
| 2009 | RSX | 5.574 |
| 2009 | TSX | 4,550 |
More Acura Specs:
– Acura GVWR
– Acura GAWR
– Acura cargo capacity
– Acura Curb Weight
– Acura Payload
– Acura towing capacity
Audi GCWR (2006-2009)
| Year | Model | GCWR (pounds) |
|---|---|---|
| 2006 | A3 | – |
| 2006 | A4 | – |
| 2006 | A6 | – |
| 2006 | A8 | – |
| 2006 | S4 | – |
| 2006 | TT | – |
| 2007 | A3 | – |
| 2007 | A4 | – |
| 2007 | A6 | – |
| 2007 | A8 | – |
| 2007 | Q7 | 10.665 |
| 2007 | RS4 | – |
| 2007 | S4 | – |
| 2007 | S6 | – |
| 2007 | S8 | – |
| 2008 | A3 | – |
| 2008 | A4 | – |
| 2008 | A5 | – |
| 2008 | A6 | – |
| 2008 | A8 | – |
| 2008 | Q7 | 10.665 |
| 2008 | R8 | – |
| 2008 | RS4 | – |
| 2008 | S4 | – |
| 2008 | S5 | – |
| 2008 | S6 | – |
| 2008 | S8 | – |
| 2008 | TT | – |
| 2009 | A3 | – |
| 2009 | A4 | – |
| 2009 | A5 | – |
| 2009 | A8 | – |
| 2009 | Q7 | 10.665 |
| 2009 | R8 | – |
| 2009 | S4 | – |
| 2009 | S5 | – |
| 2009 | S8 | – |
| 2009 | TT | – |
More Audi Specs:
– Audi GVWR
– Audi GAWR
– Audi’s cargo capacity
– Audi Curb Weight
– Audi payload
– Audi’s towing capacity
Many other brands follow a similar pattern. Browse by brand to find the gear you want.
– Acura
– Audi
– BMW
– Buick
– Cadillac
– Chevrolet
– Chrysler
– Dodge
– Ford
– GMC
– Honda
– HUMMER
– Hyundai
– Infiniti
– Isuzu
– jaguar
– Jeep
– Kia
– Land Rover
– Lexus
– Lincoln
– Mazda
– Mercedes-Benz
– Mercury
– mini
– Mitsubishi
– Nissan
–
BMW GCWR
If you use a Bavarian, the figures will change depending on whether you are towing a luxury sedan or a full-size SUV. These data refer to the mid-2000s. At that time, BMW still used alphanumeric codes that told almost nothing about the actual weight without a lookup table.
2006 BMW model
The E65 7 Series and E60 5 Series top the list. You will notice that most sedans do not have GCWR listed. This is because they were not rated for towing. Don’t think that the sheet is heavy even if it has “-” written on it. This means zero.
- 325/330/525/530/550/650/750/M3/M5/M6 : No rating.
- X3 : 7,673 lbs.
- X5 : 10,802 lbs.
- Z4/Z4M : No rating.
The X5 is the workhorse here. At just over 10k, it is not enough for a large travel trailer, but it is enough for a small payload.
2007 BMW model
Alpina enters the chat with the B7. It has the DNA of the 7 Series, but could also have more torque and an improved cooling system. The sedan’s GCWR is not yet listed.
- 328/335/525/530/550/650/750/Alpina B7/M5/M6 : No rating.
- X3 : 7,662 lbs. (slightly lower than in 2006).
- X5 : 11,132 lbs. (A jump of 330 lbs).
- Z4/Z4M : No rating.
2008 BMW model
The E90/E92 generation begins. The 1-series joins the fold. The X5 is still king of the GCWR mountain.
- 128/135/328/335/528/535/550/650/750/Alpina B7/M3/M5 : No rating.
- X3 : 7,662 lbs.
- X5 : 11,132 lbs.
- X6 : 11,044 lbs. (The coupe SUV version is lighter than the X5).
- Z4/Z4M : No rating.
2009 BMW model
The M6 is back. The V8 engine has become larger. The GCWR of the X5 has decreased slightly.
- 128/135/328/335/528/535/550/750/M3/M5/M6 : No rating.
- X3 : 7,662 lbs.
- X5 : 11,066 lbs.
- X6 : 11,044 lbs.
More BMW Specs:
– BMW GVWR
– BMW GAWR
– BMW Cargo Carrying Capacity
– BMW Curb Weight
– BMW payload
– BMW Towing Capacity
Buick GCWR
During this time, Buick was trying to move into the premium market. Rainier and Terraza are basically Isuzu/Toyota trucks. It has more GCWR because it is built on a truck chassis. By comparison, sedans are fragile by comparison.
2006 Buick model
- Lacrosse : 4,645 lbs.
- Lucerne : 4,914 lbs.
- Rainier : 10,500 lbs.
- Rendezvous : 7,746 lbs.
- Terraza : 8,500 lbs.
The Rainier is the outlier here. If you own a 2006 Rainier, you can tow nearly 10,500 pounds. The Lucerne is a soft SUV in a suit. Don’t force it.
2007 Buick model
The Terraza disappears. The Rainier stays put.
- Lacrosse : 4,645 lbs.
- Lucerne : 4,914 lbs.
- Rainier : 10,500 lbs.
- Rendezvous : 7,746 lbs.
2008 Buick model
Enclave arrives. It is a mid-size SUV that replaces the Rendezvous. It’s heavy.
- Enclave : 9,500 lbs.
- Lacrosse : 4,645 lbs.
- Lucerne : 4,914 lbs.
2009 Buick model
Steady state. The Enclave holds its ground.
- Enclave : 9,500 lbs.
- Lacrosse : 4,645 lbs.
- Lucerne : 4,914 lbs.
More Buick Specs:
– Buick GVWR
– Buick GAWR
– Buick Cargo Carrying Capacity
– Buick vehicle weight
– Buick Payload
– Buick traction
Cadillac GCWR
Cadillac is where the real heavy lifting is done. The Escalade series ranks high in these statistics. Although the CTS-V and STS-V are high-performance sedans, their GCWR is surprisingly low compared to the torque they produce.
2006 Cadillac model
- CTS : £4,659.
- CTS-V : 5,000 lbs.
- DTS : £5,159.
- Escalade : 12,902 lbs.
- Escalade ESV : 14,000 lbs.
- Escalade EXT : 13,464 lbs.
- SRX : 5,314 lbs.
- STS : £5,008.
- STS-V : £5,383.
- XLR/XLR-V : Not rated.
The Escalade ESV is a limousine-sized SUV. Holds up to £14,000. That’s some serious talent. EXT is an SUV model converted from a pickup truck. It sits between the standard and ESV, which makes sense given the length of the bed.
2007 Cadillac model
The Escalade line is solid at 14,000 overall. The SRX probably had more capacity due to the stronger frame.
- CTS : £4,659.
- CTS-V : 5,000 lbs.
- DTS : £5,159.
- Escalade/ESV/EXT : 14,000 lbs.
- SRX : 6,314 lbs. (a big leap since 2006).
- STS : £5,079.
- STS-V : 5,544 lbs.
2008 Cadillac model
CTS increases carrying capacity. The Escalade remains consistent.
- CTS : £5,011.
- DTS : £5,159.
- Escalade/ESV/EXT : 14,000 lbs.
- SRX : 6,314 lbs.
- STS : £5,123.
- STS-V : 5,544 lbs.
2009 Cadillac models
Introducing the Escalade Hybrid. GCWR is on par with the SRX, which is low for a hybrid SUV of this size. Hybrid systems increase battery weight and consume payload.
- CTS : £5,011.
- DTS : £5,159.
- Escalade/ESV/EXT : 14,000 lbs.
- Escalade Hybrid : 6,314 lbs.
- SRX : 5,123 lbs. (Reduced from 2008).
- STS : £5,123.
- STS-V : 5,544 lbs.
Cadillac Detailed Specifications:
– Cadillac GVWR
– Cadillac GAWR
– Cadillac load capacity
– The weight of a Cadillac car
– Cadillac Payload
– Cadillac traction
Chevrolet GCWR
Chevrolet is the sales leader here. The Silverado and Suburban lines define these numbers. Small cars (Aveo, Cobalt) are front-wheel drive, compact platforms and therefore have a very low payload.
2006 Chevrolet model
Avalanche and Silverado HD models demonstrate this range. The 1500 series is available in limited quantities. 2500/3500 HD takes over.
- Avalanche 1500 : 12,863 lbs.
-**Avalanche 2
FORD GCWR
Ford’s product line of this era showed a clear distinction between workhorses and commuters. If you’re looking for a 2009 Ford F150 GCWR, you’re looking at some serious numbers. Big trucks dominate the ranking.
In 2006, the F-250 and F-350 Super Duty weighed 15,000 pounds. By 2007, the figure had risen to 17,000 lbs. The 2008 F-450 weighs an additional 27,000 pounds. But the F-150 tells a different story.
As of 2006, the F-150 weighed 11,665 pounds. In 2007 it rose slightly to 11,700 lbs. It then jumped to 14,950 pounds in 2009. That’s a big change in performance for America’s most popular truck.
Small cars barely made the list. The 2007, 2008, and 2009 Mustang had a GCWR of 4,611 pounds. The 2006 and 2007 Focus was quoted at 3,771 lbs. Many models, such as the Fusion and Taurus, have no information listed. This usually means that they are not suitable for towing heavy loads or that some datasets are missing data.
The Transit vans weren’t here yet. Shown are Econoline and Excursion. The 2007 Expedition EL weighs 15,078 lbs. The weight of the Explorer Sport Trac varied widely, topping out at 10,000 pounds in 2007 and dropping to 8,233 pounds in 2009.
GMC GCWR
GMC is in the same sandbox as Chevrolet, sharing platforms and specifications. The Sierra 3500 is king here.
In 2008, the Sierra 3500 weighs 16,000 lbs. The Sierra 2500 weighs approximately 15,858 pounds. The Yukon XL held steady at 13,000 lbs for most of this period, but dropped to 11,000 lbs in 2009.
Smaller trucks are less capable. The Canyon went from 5,179 pounds in 2006 to 5,887 pounds in 2009. The Sierra 1500 went from 8,361 pounds in 2006 to 9,500 pounds in 2008.
There is also a hybrid model. The Yukon Hybrid was valued at 12,000 lbs in 2008 and 2009. The Sierra Hybrid doesn’t have 2009 numbers listed, which is odd considering the hybrid powertrain.
The Acadia debuted in 2007 with a 9,500-pound GCWR and has maintained that level ever since. The Envoy dropped slightly from 10,000 lbs in 2006 to 9,854 lbs in 2007 before returning to 10,000 lbs in 2008 and 2009.
Honda GCWR
Honda’s numbers are low overall. They aren’t building boats.
The Ridgeline is the most powerful towing vehicle. In 2006 it weighed in at 9,653 pounds and increased to 10,085 pounds in 2007 and 2008. The Pilot is also very efficient. In 2007 and 2008, it sat at 9,700 lbs By 2009, it dropped to 8,466 lbs
The Civic had a strange anomaly in 2007. Its GCWR jumped to 6,060 lbs. It then dropped to 3,738 pounds in 2009. If you plan to tow a 2009 Civic, you should check your owner’s manual carefully.
Odyssey prices remained stable at 8,210 lbs in 2006, 2008 and 2009, but dropped to 8,034 lbs in 2007.
There is no information about any model year for the CR-V. There is also no information about the Accord Hybrid. In 2006, the Insight cost just 2,250 lbs. This is not a car for towing.
HUMMER GCWR
Hummer numbers are blunt. It is very heavy. they are not effective.
The H2 was launched in 2006 and weighed 13,050 pounds. In 2007 it rose to 13,150 lbs. It then rose to 14,000 lbs in 2008 and remained at the same level in 2009.
From 2006 to 2009, the H3 was pegged at 8,000 pounds. Then in 2009 the H3T was introduced. It tips the scales at 9,461 lbs.
These numbers suggest that the H3T has either a stiffer frame or a different rear axle ratio than the regular H3 SUV.
Hyundai GCWR
Hyundai is catching up. Their numbers were modest but present.
From 2006 to 2009, the Azera’s weight remained stable at 4,779 pounds. Elantra’s weight varies widely. He weighed 4,434 pounds in 2006, dropped to 3,623 pounds in 2007 and 2008, and jumped to 5,550 pounds in 2009. That’s a big change.
The Santa Fe started at a whopping 6,399 lbs in 2006 and dropped to 5,527 lbs in 2007 and 2008. The Tucson hovers around 4,400 lbs.
The weight of the Entourage minivan increased from 5,550 pounds in 2007 to 5,898 pounds in 2008.
Accent did not have data for 2006, 2007 and 2009. In 2008 the figure was 4,779 lbs. Genesis has no data.
Infiniti GCWR
Infiniti mixes luxury with heavy towing. The QX56 is an exception.
In 2006 this figure was 14,510 lbs. In 2007, his weight jumped to 15,558 lbs. In 2009, it settled at 15,100 lbs
The FX series is lighter. The 2006 and 2007 FX35 weighs 7,760 pounds. The 2006 FX45 weighs 8,020 pounds, and the 2007 and 2008 FX45s weigh 14,520 pounds.
The G35 has grown. In 2006, it weighed 4,655 pounds, rising to 9,155 pounds in 2007 and 9,647 pounds in 2008. In 2008, the G37 weighed 13,266 pounds.
The M45 has no data for 2006, 2007, and 2008. The M35 weighs 4,982 pounds in 2006 and 12,982 pounds in 2007.
ISUZU GCWR
Isuzu is a niche market. Ascender is the largest of them.
From 2006 to 2008, its weight remained stable at 10,000 pounds. The i-350 started at 9,000 lbs in 2006 and 2007 and rose to 9,500 lbs in 2008.
Both i-280 and i-290 are small. In 2006 and 2007, they sat at 5,500 lbs, rising to 6,000 pounds in 2008.
Jaguar GCWR
The Jaguars roster is empty.
S-type, X-type, XJ8, XJR, XK8, XKR. All dashes.
The XF was released in 2009, but there are no numbers. 2009 XK Coupe, no data available.
Jaguar didn’t release the numbers here. Or not evaluated in the same way.
Jeep GCWR
Jeep numbers are consistent on the Wrangler, but wild on the Commander.
The 2006 Wrangler weighs 5,350 pounds. down £4,910 in 2007, 2
2006-2009 Kia towing specs: Sedona and Sorento Ratings
Kia has very few GCWRs from this era. Most sedans and small crossovers do not read these features. I can’t find a GCWR for Optima or Rio. Those aren’t tow vehicles. But if you’re looking for a big hauler, the info is there.
In 2006, the Sportage had a GCWR of 4,880 pounds. It is not that heavy compared to the weight of the car. By 2007, things had changed. The Sedona weighs up to 8015 lbs. Sorento is heavier, 9,299 lbs. This shows that Kia Motors is positioning the Sorento as a full-fledged mid-size hauler early on.
The 2008 Sorento and Sportage kept the same numbers. No changes. And in 2009 Borrego was born. Joins the ranks with a GCWR of 9398 lbs. That’s almost 10,000 pounds. The Sedona and Sorento’s load ratings seem to plateau around 9,000 pounds.
Land Rover GCWR 2006-2009: Range Rover Sport and LR3
Land Rover handles weight differently. These are tough animals. The 2006 Range Rover Sport starts at 13,318 lbs. The Range Rover itself is slightly heavier at 13,324 pounds. The LR3 is lightweight at 13,165 pounds.
In 2007, the LR3’s weight increased to 13,276 lbs. The Range Rover Sport adds a pound to a pound3,334. The standard Range Rover is stable. In 2008, LR3 was left off the list. Only the Range Rover Sport remains, holding the line at a pound3,334.
In 2009, things got interesting. The LR2 has a much lower GCWR of 7905 lbs. It’s smaller. Light trucks have fewer restrictions. But the big boys kept climbing. The LR3 weighs 13,662 pounds. The Range Rover weighs 13,564 pounds. The sports weight remains at 13,334 lbs. Why is there a difference between the Sport and the full-size Rover? Weight distribution. Axle limits. Sport is lighter, but it can have different upper limits of traction technology. Or maybe it’s just the strength of the frame.
Lexus GCWR 2006-2009: LX 570 and GX 470 ratings
Lexus doesn’t advertise their trailers much. But GCWR is telling the truth. The luxury sedans? There are no numbers. ES, GS, LS? You don’t use these to tow your boat.
The GX 470 offers solid performance. From 2006 to 2009, he weighed 11,521 pounds. No changes. It doesn’t have to be that way. In 2006, the LX 470 weighs 12,240 lbs. Next up is the LX570.
The new LX 570 introduced in 2008 increased the weight to 14,645 lbs. This is a huge improvement over the GX. The RX 350 was launched in 2007 at a price of 7520 lbs. In 2008 it fell to 6020 lbs. Why? Maybe there is a different trim. Maybe the engine map is different. The hybrid RX 400h’s weight has also dropped from 8,015 pounds to 6,340 pounds. Efficiency has its price here. Alternatively, the weight of the battery can significantly change the payload calculation.
Lincoln towing capacity 2006-2009: Navigator and Mark LT
Lincoln slims down or adds features. Without the weight of the vehicle, it is difficult to determine. But GCWR gives us a clue.
The Mark LT is a truck disguised as an SUV. From 2006 to 2008, its weight remained stable at 14,500 pounds. The 2006 Navigator weighed 11,900 pounds. By 2007 it had risen to a pound5,000. This is a significant increase. Have you strengthened the frame? Adding a better cooling system? As of 2009, it still weighs 15,000 lbs.
The MKX was launched in 2007 and weighed 6,370 lbs. By 2008, his weight had increased to 7,350 lbs. Probably a powertrain upgrade. The weight of the city car ranges from 6,460 to 6,502 pounds. A large sedan It’s not a tow vehicle. Information is not available for Zephyr and MKZ. Don’t try.
Mazda GCWR 2006-2009: B-Series and CX-9
Mazda uses the B-series name for its pickup trucks. They were essentially renamed Ford Rangers. The B4000 was the heavy hitter. In 2006, it weighed 6,973 pounds. In 2007, it weighed 7,000 pounds. In 2008, it weighed 7,000 pounds. By 2009, his weight had dropped slightly to 6,952 pounds.
The CX-9 is a crossover transport vehicle. His weight in 2006 is 6826 lbs. This line was maintained in 2007 and remained unchanged in 2008. It then fell to 6484 lbs in 2009. Why did it fall? Emissions? Do you want to lose weight? Or do you just offer another towing package?
The B2300 is very light. In 2006 it was 4744 lbs. It has now risen to 4800 lbs. It then dropped to 4,749 pounds in 2009. The Tribute Hybrid is surprisingly light at 4,747 pounds in 2008. Payload is less than the gas-only Tribute (4,893 pounds). Batteries add weight. They affect the tow rating.
Mercedes-Benz GCWR 2006-2009: G-Class and ML-Class
Mercedes has listed GCWR for large SUVs. The sedans? Blank. There are no numbers.
As of 2006, the ML350 weighed 6,773 pounds. The ML500 weighs 6893 lbs. The numbers are low. Not suitable for towing trailers.
Everything changed in 2007. Introducing the G series. The G500 has a maximum curb weight of 12,695 lbs. The GL320 weighs 12,946 pounds. The ML500 jumps to 12,145 lbs. Now these are proper tow vehicles The ML63 AMG weighs 12,443 lbs.
In 2008, the G series continued to perform well. G500 12661 lbs G55 12783 lbs GL550 weighs 13,084 lbs. The ML class is around a pound2000-12400.
The R series was launched in 2009. The weight rating is 8590 lbs. It is smaller than ML. This is likely due to platform differences. The GL550’s weight remains at 13,084 lbs. The ML550 can handle up to 12,145 lbs. The G series disappeared from the list. It was discontinued that year.
Mercury GCWR 2006-2009: Mountaineer and the Grand Marquis
Mercury is dying. But the numbers show no weakness.
The Grand Marquis tops out at 5688 lbs. It rose to 5,787, then to 6,000, and in 2009 to 6,600. This is a big leap forward. Did they add a standard towing package? It was still a heavy sedan.
The Mountaineer is a low-cost version of the Lincoln Navigator. Starting weight is 8111 lbs. His weight increased to 8,217 lbs. It remained stable in 2009.
Mariner is light. Around £4,935. The Monterey minivan weighs an impressive 7,990 lbs. The Montego weighs around 4,800 lbs. Not for towing.
MINI GCWR 2006-2009: Cooper and Clubman
The MINI has no towing capability. The GCWR field is empty.
Cooper Hardtop. There are no numbers.
Cooper Clubman. There are no numbers.
John Cooper Works. There are no numbers.
MINIs cannot tow trailers. The suspension is too soft. Brakes are not rated. This frame is not designed for that. Please ignore this part. There’s a reason it’s empty.
Mitsubishi GCWR 2006-2009: Raider and Endeavour
Mitsubishi had a few contenders.
Nissan towing limits by model
Nissan’s lineup in this era speaks to two different priorities. There are sport coupes that focus on handling, and there are full-size trucks that focus on towing. If you are looking for 2006 Nissan Titan GCWR, you are looking at 11,465 lbs. That is a serious figures for a half-ton. The Armada followed a similar path, weighing in at 11,818 pounds in 2006 and rising to 12,800 pounds the following year. By 2008, Nissan had maxed out the Armada’s towing capacity to 15,100 lbs.
Smaller cars? Not so much. 350Zs, Maximas and Sentras generally do not list GCWR. implying they weren’t rated for towing at all. The Altima falls somewhere in the middle, hovering around 4,150 to 4,200 lbs depending on trim and model year. The curb weight has remained stable over the years between 10,676 and 11,133 pounds. The Titan continued its slow climb, hitting 11,688 lbs by 2009.
Pontiac GCWR figures
Pontiac is on the brink of death, but there are still solid figuress on paper before the curtain falls. The G8, built on General Motors’ Omega platform, was the heaviest hitter. In both 2008 and 2009, it had a GCWR of 6,035 pounds. Not bad for a sport sedan.
The rest of the range was modest. The G6 and Grand Prix sat in the 4,455 to 4,634 lb range. The Montana SV6 and Torrent are utility models, and in 2006 the SV6 hitting 8,500 lbs, while the Torrent weighed between 7,310 and 7,407 pounds. The Vibe is a Toyota Matrix twin and barely cracked 4,400 lbs. If you’re trying to tow something behind a GTO or Solstice, you were on your own. No official ratings.
Porsche Cayenne GCWR
Porsche keeps it simple. If you buy a Cayenne, you bought it to tow. Both the 2006 and 2008 models have a GCWR of 12,628 pounds. By 2009, the figure had risen slightly to 12,650 lbs. This is consistent. It’s German engineering doing what it’s supposed to do.
What about the rest of the Porsche lineup? 911, Boxster, Cayman. zero. These sports cars were not rated for towing. Leave the trailer hitch to the SUV.
Saab GCWR data
Saab has a weird quirk. The weight of the 9-5 sedan remained unchanged from 2006 to 2009, starting at 7,120 kilograms. It’s a rock. The 9-7X is a rebadged GMT900 truck, held steady at 10,500 lbs for the entire period.
The 9-3 started at 5,430 lbs in 2006, dropped to 5,380 lbs in 2007 and 2008 and jumped to £5,680 in 2009. The 9-2X was a Subaru Forester-badged mess that cost just £2,060 in 2006.
Saturn GCWR failure
Saturn’s later years were a mix of GM versatility and obsolescence. The rebadged Buick Envision Outlook started out at 9,500 pounds in 2007, but by 2008, that figures had dropped to 6,872 pounds and remained at 6,852 pounds in 2009. That drop is questionable. Maybe it’s time to reassess. Maybe it’s a memory.
The VUE and VUE Hybrids weigh between 4,857 and 5,475 pounds. The Relay minibus is the mainstay, priced at £8,500 in 2006 and falling to £7,918 in 2007. The Aeon, Sky and Astra are not graded. They are not made for this.
Scion and Smart GCWR
Heir. This brand exists to sell affordable and fast cars to young people. tC, xB, xD. From 2006 to 2009, we did not publish a single year of GCWR. zero. They are not trailers.
This is the same story for smart people. There are no reviews for the 2008 Fortwo yet. It’s not like you’re towing a boat with a toy car.
Subaru GCWR analysis
Subaru relies on four-wheel drive systems and traction. The Outback is king here, weighing in at 6,160 pounds in 2006 and rising to 6,207 pounds in 2009. The old sedans and wagons weigh around 6,050 to 6,120 pounds.
Tribeca is a weightlifter. In 2006 and 2007 it was £7,805, down from £6,290 in 2008 and 2009. The Foresters stayed below £5,600, with the majority around £5,690. WRX STI? There is no grade. It cannot be towed by a turbine truck.
Suzuki GCWR Trend
Suzuki’s shine faded quickly. The XL7 started at £6,788 in 2006 and jumped to £7,536 in 2007 and 2008. The Grand Vitara is a steady £6,602. Small cars like the Forenza and Reno weigh between 3,850 and 3,900 pounds.
By 2009, Suzuki had completely discontinued the GCWR listings for the XL7, Grand Vitara, Equator and SX4. This is the sign of the end. If it’s not mentioned in the user manual, don’t try it at all.
Toyota GCWR level
Toyota has the most comprehensive list here. The Land Cruiser is the benchmark. Curb weight jumped from 12,400 pounds in 2006 to 15,775 pounds in 2008 and 2009. That’s a lot of weight for an SUV without a frame. Sequoia also grew significantly, reaching 16,900 pounds in 2008 and 2009.
The Tundra dropped from 11,800 pounds in 2006 to 10,000 pounds in 2007, where it remains. Weird drop. The Tacoma held steady at 8,100 pounds.
Hybrids tell a different story. The Highlander Hybrid started at 6,220 pounds, jumped to 7,665 pounds in 2007, and finally reached 8,158 pounds in 2008 and 2009. The Camry Hybrid is unrated. There are no reviews for the title Prius.
Small cars like the Corolla, Matrix and Yaris weigh between 4,180 and 4,500 pounds. The weight of the 4Runner remained constant at 9,195 kilograms for four years. Continuous. Reliable. It’s just like a sign.
Other Toyota specifications:
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Toyota GVWR
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Toyota Gaur
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Toyota cargo capacity
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Toyota car weight
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Toyota payload
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Toyota’s towing capacity
Volkswagen GCWR: Capacity restrictions 2006-2009
The numbers don’t lie. If you plan to carry heavy loads behind German steel, you should know the limitations. GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating) is the vehicle’s maximum weight plus towing weight. Ignore it and you’re toast your transmission.
2006 Volkswagen GCWR Information
Only one model this year bothers to include a specific GCWR number in the main data set. It’s a Touareg.
| Model | GCWR (pounds) |
|---|---|
| Touareg | 12,952 |
| Golf | – |
| GTI | – |
| Jetta | – |
| Beetle convertible | – |
| Beetle Coupe | – |
| Passat Sedan | – |
| Phaeton | – |
| Rabbit | – |
If a 2006 Jetta or GTI doesn’t have a listed GCWR, it probably shouldn’t be towing anything big. The design focus of these front-wheel-drive sedans is elsewhere.
2007 Volkswagen GCWR Information
The 2007 update included Eos but also no GCWR. The capacity of the Touareg has increased slightly.
| Model | GCWR (pounds) |
|---|---|
| Touareg | 13,034 |
| Eos | – |
| GTI | – |
| Jetta | – |
| Beetle convertible | – |
| Beetle Coupe | – |
| Passat Sedan | – |
| Passat Wagon | – |
| Rabbit | – |
2008 Volkswagen GCWR Information
This is a strange gap in the data. GCWR numbers are not available for 2008 Touareg 2, GLI, GTI and other models. This does not necessarily mean that the capacity is zero. It usually means that the manufacturer has not published a specific combined weight limit for these trims in this dataset, or that towing is limited in some way.
| Model | GCWR (pounds) |
|---|---|
| Touareg 2 | – |
| Eos | – |
| GLI | – |
| GTI | – |
| Jetta | – |
| Beetle convertible | – |
| Beetle Coupe | – |
| Passat Sedan | – |
| Passat Wagon | – |
| R32 | – |
| Rabbit | – |
2009 Volkswagen GCWR Information
New for 2009 are the Routan minivan and the Tiguan SUV. The capacity is relatively low compared to the larger Touareg.
| Model | GCWR (pounds) |
|---|---|
| Touareg 2 | 12,952 |
| Routan | 6,771 |
| Tiguan | 5,748 |
| Eos | – |
| GLI | – |
| GTI | – |
| Jetta Sedan | – |
| Jetta Sport Tourer | – |
| Beetle convertible | – |
| Beetle Coupe | – |
| Passat Sedan | – |
| Passat Wagon | – |
| Rabbit | – |
The Rutan has a GCWR of about 6,800 pounds, which means it’s better suited for hauling cargo than pulling large trailers. Tiguan? Less than 6k. Keep it on the pavement.
Volvo GCWR: 2006-2009 Heavy Haulers
Volvo plays a different game. The company’s sedans and wagons typically have tighter towing envelopes than SUVs, but the XC90 is a dedicated hauler.
2006 Volvo GCWR Information
XC9
