Fuel efficiency assessment. horsepower. Torque value. you know the numbers. These are the basics of car sales. You can also know zero-to-sixty times. You may also be cEverrned about the interior space and legroom of the rear seats. These stats represent performance and comfort. They tell you what you want to buy.
However, not all automotive numbers are equal. Some of it is marketing crap. Others have strict boundaries that dictate whether you stay on the road or stay in the ditch.
Most buyers ignore these vague indicators until it’s too late. Certain numbers are often overlooked. it causes confusion. Getting it wrong can lead to catastrophic failure. This is the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR).
If you plan to tow something, know that this limit is non-negotiable. Ignoring it can lead to disaster.
What exactly is the Gross Combination Weight Rating?
Let’s clear up the terminology. GCWR is not a suggestion. This is a hard ceiling set by the manufacturer. This determines the maximum permissible weight of the towing vehicle* and the trailer attached to it. Both need to be loaded. We are talking about a car with fuel, passengers and equipment and a trailer full of cargo.
Do not exceed this amount. Ever.
This cEverpt goes hand in hand with the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). People confuse them. GVWR applies to one vehicle itself. GCWR combines two different locked entities.
How did we arrive at this magic number? This is not speculation. For example, Ford Motor Company analyzes this with mathematical precision. To find your GCWR, you need to summarize:
- Unladen weight of the vehicle (empty weight including fluids)
- Permitted loading capacity
- Driver’s weight
- Passenger’s weight
- Trailer weight
Wait. GCWR is not the “actual” weight of the rig. This is a limit. If a fully loaded truck and trailer weighs 10,500 pounds but has a GCWR of 10,000 pounds, it is overloaded. Math doesn’t lie.
Why overload is dangerous
The main reason such numbers exist is for safety. Manufacturers do not arbitrarily limit the sale of accessories to customers. They installed them to prevent mechanical suicide.
Overloading a tow vehicle is dangerous. Overloading the combination is fatal.
Let’s think about physics. Heavy loads are difficult to control. Its behavior is unpredictable. But the actual danger lies in the components.
The brakes are the first to scream. Overload The brake system overheats. It fades. They fail. If you have to stop at 60 mph and the brakes are hot, you’re in trouble.
Next, the tires. Not suitable for unlimited loads. If you exceed the limit, there is a risk that the tire will break. Breaking tires at high speeds can be chaotic.
The engine and transmission were also damaged. Pressure can cause overheating. Mechanical failure follows. Suspension parts? It can bend or break. lose control. You spin out. You crash
The list of possible failures is long. The result is always the same. Do not exceed GCWR.
Where can I find GCWR?
You need this number before hitching up. Where do you look?
Start on the inside of the driver’s side door frame. Look for the sticker. Tire pressures, GVWR and often GCWR are usually listed. It is located right next to the latch mechanism.
If the sticker is lost or becomes illegible, search for it online. Most manufacturers publish this information. Search for a specific make, model or year.
The information below applies to certain Acura and Audi models. Use these numbers to benchmark your own rig.
Acura GCWR data
2006
MDX: 8,121 lbs
RL: 5,162 lbs
RSX: £4,384
– TL: 4,730 lbs.
– TSX: Unlisted
2007
MDX: £10,053
RL: £5,164.
– RDX: 6,394 lbs.
– TL: 4,773 lbs.
– TSX: £4,407
2008
MDX: £10,053
RL: £5,164.
RSX: £6,394
– TL: 4,773 lbs.
– TSX: £4,407
2009
MDX: £10,053
RL: £5,233
RSX: £5,574.
– TL: Not listed
– TSX: £4,550
Acura’s relevant metrics include GVWR, GAWR, cargo capacity, vehicle weight, payload, towing capacity and more.
Audi GCWR data
2006
- A3, A4, A6, A8, S4, TT: Not listed
- Q7: Not listed (Note: Source data does not provide values, so likely requiring specific trim verification)
2007
- A3, A4, A6, A8, RS4, S4, S6, S8: Not listed
- Q7: £10,665.
2008
- A3, A4, A5, A6, A8, R8, RS4, S4, S5, S6, S8, TT: Not listed
- Q7: £10,665.
2009
- A3, A4, A5, A8, RS4, S4, S5, S8, TT: Not listed
- Q7: £10,665.
- R8: Not listed
Audi’s relevant metrics include GVWR, GAWR, cargo capacity, vehicle weight, payload capacity, towing capacity, etc.
The numbers are clear. The risks are actual. Respect the limit.
If you’re hauling anything behind a vehicle, the number that matters most isn’t just how much the car can pull. It’s the Gross Combined Weight Rating. This metric defines the maximum allowable weight of the vehicle itself plus the trailer and everything inside it. Ignore it, and you’re playing with axle stress, brake failure, and voided warranties. The following data covers the 2006 through 2009 model years for major American and German brands, stripped down to the raw numbers you need to plan your loadout.
BMW GCWR Limits
BMW’s lineup during this period was a mix of rear-wheel-drive sedans, heavy SUVs, and high-performance machines. The numbers tell a story of engineering priorities: light cars with low towing limits, and heavy SUVs built for the job.
2006 Models
* X3: 7,673 lbs
* X5: 10,802 lbs
* 325, 330, 525, 530, 550, 650, 750, M3, M5, M6, Z4, Z4M: Data not available
2007 Models
* X3: 7,662 lbs
* X5: 11,132 lbs
* 328, 335, 525, 530, 550, 650, 750, 760, Alpina B7, M5, M6, Z4, Z4M: Data not available
2008 Models
* X3: 7,662 lbs
* X5: 11,132 lbs
* X6: 11,044 lbs
* 128, 135, 328, 335, 528, 535, 550, 650, 750, 760, Alpina B7, M3, M5, Z4, Z4M: Data not available
2009 Models
* X3: 7,662 lbs
* X5: 11,066 lbs
* X6: 11,044 lbs
* 128, 135, 328, 335, 528, 535, 550, 750, M3, M5, M6, Z4, Z4M: Data not available
For BMW owners, the X5 is the primary candidate for serious towing. The X6 offers nearly identical capacity, while the sedan lineup lacks published GCWRs, suggesting they were not intended for towing beyond light utility trailers.
Buick GCWR Data
Buick’s strategy here leaned heavily into the mid-size sedan and the three-row crossover. The Rainier, though short-lived, showed Buick’s intent to compete in the SUV towing space.
2006 Models
* Rainier: 10,500 lbs
* Terraza: 8,500 lbs
* Rendezvous: 7,746 lbs
* LaCrosse: 4,645 lbs
* Lucerne: 4,914 lbs
2007 Models
* Rainier: 10,500 lbs
* Rendezvous: 7,746 lbs
* LaCrosse: 4,645 lbs
* Lucerne: 4,914 lbs
2008 Models
* Enclave: 9,500 lbs
* LaCrosse: 4,645 lbs
* Lucerne: 4,914 lbs
2009 Models
* Enclave: 9,500 lbs
* LaCrosse: 4,645 lbs
* Lucerne: 4,914 lbs
The Enclave replaced the Rainier and Terraza, settling at a 9,500 lb GCWR. It’s a capable number for a family hauler, allowing for substantial cargo without pushing the limits of the powertrain.
Cadillac GCWR Breakdown
Cadillac pushed harder into luxury towing. The Escalade variants dominate the list, offering staggering combined weight ratings that dwarf the sedans.
2006 Models
* Escalade ESV: 14,000 lbs
* Escalade EXT: 13,464 lbs
* Escalade: 12,902 lbs
* STS-V: 5,383 lbs
* SRX: 5,314 lbs
* DTS: 5,159 lbs
* STS: 5,008 lbs
* CTS-V: 5,000 lbs
* CTS: 4,659 lbs
* XLR, XLR-V: Data not available
2007 Models
* Escalade: 14,000 lbs
* Escalade ESV: 14,000 lbs
* Escalade EXT: 14,000 lbs
* STS-V: 5,544 lbs
* SRX: 6,314 lbs
* STS: 5,079 lbs
* DTS: 5,159 lbs
* CTS-V: 5,000 lbs
* CTS: 4,659 lbs
* XLR, XLR-V: Data not available
2008 Models
* Escalade: 14,000 lbs
* Escalade ESV: 14,000 lbs
* Escalade EXT: 14,000 lbs
* STS-V: 5,544 lbs
* SRX: 6,314 lbs
* DTS: 5,159 lbs
* STS: 5,123 lbs
* CTS: 5,011 lbs
* XLR, XLR-V: Data not available
2009 Models
* Escalade: 14,000 lbs
* Escalade ESV: 14,000 lbs
* Escalade EXT: 14,000 lbs
* Escalade Hybrid: 6,314 lbs
* STS-V: 5,544 lbs
* SRX: 5,123 lbs
* STS: 5,123 lbs
* DTS: 5,159 lbs
* CTS: 5,011 lbs
* XLR, XLR-V: Data not available
Notice the Escalade Hybrid in 2009? Its GCWR drops to 6,314 lbs. That’s a massive reduction compared to the V8 versions. If you’re towing a heavy boat with the hybrid, you need to be extremely conservative with the load.
Chevrolet GCWR Specifications
Chevy’s range is vast, from the humble Aveo to the heavy-duty Silverado 3500 HD. The jump in capacity between the 1500 series and the 2500/3500 HD series is where the real work gets done.
2006 Models
* Silverado 2500 HD / 3500 HD: 16,000 lbs
* Silverado 1500 HD: 13,793 lbs
* Suburban 2500: 13,822 lbs
* Avalanche 2500: 16,878 lbs
* TrailBlazer: 11,000 lbs
* Silverado 1500 SS: 12,597 lbs
* Silverado 1500 Hybrid: 12,000 lbs
* Express: 9,500 lbs
* TrailBlazer EXT: 9,921 lbs
* SSR: 7,351 lbs
* Uplander: 7,734 lbs
* Equinox: 7,252 lbs
* Impala: 4,703 lbs
* **Malibu
Ford GCWR
The numbers for Ford’s lineup shift depending on whether you are looking at the reliable workhorses or the passenger haulers. In 2006, the Ford Crown Victoria sat at 5,592 lbs. It wasn’t built for heavy towing, but it handled its own weight fine. The E-150 was in a different league entirely, clocking in at 11,318 lbs. If you needed more payload, the E-250 dropped slightly to 10,912 lbs. But if you were running the E-350 Super Duty, you were looking at 13,000 lbs of combined capacity.
Smaller cars were limited. The Escape managed 4,830 lbs, while the hybrid version sat at 4,777 lbs. The Explorer had more grunt at 7,700 lbs. The trucks carried the real load. The F-150 hit 11,665 lbs. The heavy hitters, the F-250 and F-350, both maxed out at 15,000 lbs that year. Smaller sedans like the Five Hundred (4,799 lbs), Focus (3,771 lbs), and Taurus had tight limits. The Ranger was stuck at 9,360 lbs. Some models, like the Fusion, GT, Mustang, and Taurus, didn’t have GCWR data listed for 2006.
By 2007, things changed again. The Crown Victoria moved up to 5,751 lbs. The E-150 gained a bit to 11,500 lbs. The new Edge entered the mix with 6,248 lbs. The Expedition series started getting serious, with the standard Expedition at 14,928 lbs and the extended Expedition EL pushing 15,078 lbs. The Explorer jumped to 8,500 lbs. The F-150 rose to 11,700 lbs. The big boys, F-250 and F-350, both climbed to 17,000 lbs. The Ranger took a hit, dropping to 5,820 lbs. The Mustang finally had a number: 4,611 lbs.
2008 saw the F-450 enter the chat with a massive 27,000 lbs GCWR. The F-150 crept up to 11,765 lbs. The F-350 stabilized at 17,000 lbs. The Escape improved slightly to 4,940 lbs. The Explorer Sport Trac dropped to 8,500 lbs. The Taurus X offered 6,183 lbs. The Ranger returned to 6,000 lbs. The Mustang held at 4,611 lbs.
In 2009, the F-150 saw a huge jump to 14,950 lbs. The Expedition hit 15,000 lbs. The Explorer dipped to 8,110 lbs. The Sport Trac was at 8,233 lbs. The new Flex offered 6,900 lbs. The F-450 oddly dropped to 16,983 lbs. The Mustang stayed at 4,611 lbs. The Ranger remained at 6,000 lbs.
“If you are towing near the limit, check the specific year model. A 1,000 lb difference between a 2006 and 2009 F-150 is significant.”
GMC GCWR
GMC’s numbers tell a similar story of heavy-duty trucks carrying the bulk of the weight. In 2006, the Sierra 1500 was limited to 8,361 lbs. The Sierra 2500 and 3500 were much stronger, sitting at 15,792 lbs. The Yukon had 11,000 lbs. The Yukon XL could handle 13,000 lbs. The Savana 2500 and 3500 vans were both at 12,000 lbs. The Envoy series hovered around 10,000 lbs. The Canyon was small, at 5,179 lbs.
2007 brought the Acadia with 9,500 lbs. The Sierra 1500 rose to 9,398 lbs. The Sierra 2500 improved to 15,858 lbs. The Sierra 3500 actually dropped slightly to 15,342 lbs. The Yukon stayed at 10,000 lbs. The Yukon XL remained at 13,000 lbs. The Canyon grew to 5,679 lbs.
By 2008, the Sierra 3500 climbed back up to 16,000 lbs. The Sierra 1500 hit 9,500 lbs. The Canyon reached 5,882 lbs. The Yukon Hybrid appeared with 12,000 lbs. The rest of the lineup stayed steady.
In 2009, the Sierra 2500 ticked up to 15,926 lbs. The Sierra 3500 held at 16,000 lbs. The Canyon was at 5,887 lbs. The Yukon XL dropped to 11,000 lbs. The Yukon Hybrid stayed at 12,000 lbs. The Sierra Hybrid had no data listed.
Honda GCWR
Honda’s approach was different. Their crossovers and vans handled the towing, while the sedans were light. In 2006, the Accord was limited to 4,206 lbs. The Civic was heavier at 4,968 lbs. The CR-V had no data. The Element sat at 5,021 lbs. The Insight was tiny at 2,250 lbs. The Odyssey could handle 8,210 lbs. The Pilot was at 7,914 lbs. The Ridgeline was strong for its class at 9,653 lbs.
2007 saw the Civic jump to 6,060 lbs. The Accord was at 4,274 lbs. The Pilot gained ground, moving to 9,700 lbs. The Ridgeline hit 10,085 lbs. The Element was at 5,083 lbs. The Odyssey dropped slightly to 8,034 lbs.
In 2008, the numbers stabilized. The Civic held at 6,060 lbs. The Ridgeline stayed at 10,085 lbs. The Pilot remained at 9,700 lbs. The Odyssey rose to 8,210 lbs. The Accord had no data listed.
By 2009, the Civic dropped significantly to 3,738 lbs. The Pilot fell to 8,466 lbs. The Odyssey stayed at 8,210 lbs. The Accord, Civic Hybrid, and Fit had no GCWR data available.
HUMMER GCWR
HUMMER was all about mass. In 2006, the H2 could handle 13,050 lbs. The H1 Alpha was a beast at 17,300 lbs. The H3 was surprisingly limited at 8,000 lbs.
In 2007, the H2 rose to 13,150 lbs. The H3 stayed at 8,000 lbs.
For 2008 and 2009, the H2 jumped to 14,000 lbs. The H3 remained stuck at 8,000 lbs. In 2009, the H3T pickup entered the list with 9,461 lbs. It was still heavier than the SUV version in terms of capacity, but barely.
Hyundai GC
Understand the total weight rating
Horsepower alone cannot pull a trailer. We can achieve that through structural integrity, cooling capacity and braking performance. The metric that ties it all together is the gross combined weight rating. This is the maximum permissible weight of the vehicle plus the trailer and all the weight on the vehicle. If you forget this number, you not only risk voiding your warranty. You are in danger of getting divorced.
The Kia GCWR numbers show that the brand stayed under the radar until the late 2000s. The 2007-2009 Sorento weighs 9,299 lbs. In the case of a mid-sized crossover, it is difficult to handle because it is heavy with luggage. The 2006-2008 Optima has a GCWR of 5,292 pounds. Most compact cars fall into this category because they are not suitable for heavy loads. The 2009 Borrego’s GCWR jumps to 9,398 pounds, an even stronger figure for a body-on-frame SUV. Early models like the Sportage weighed around 4,880 lbs. simple numbers. hard limit.
Land Rover heavy truck
If you’re towing something big, consider a Land Rover. The numbers reflect this. The 2006 Range Rover weighed 13,324 lbs. The LR3 is slightly less at 13,165 lbs. By 2009, the LR3’s weight had increased to 13,662 lbs. The Range Rover weighs 13,564 pounds. These are not tiny crossovers. These are full-size luxury SUVs designed to move heavy loads with air suspension. From 2007 to 2009, the Range Rover Sport’s weight remained stable at around 13,334 lbs. The entry-level LR2 drops to 7,905 pounds for 2009. There’s a huge difference between the flagship and budget options.
Lexus specifications and limitations
Lexus data reveals that it is a brand that emphasizes practicality disguised as luxury. From 2006 to 2009, the GX 470’s GCWR remained stable at 11,521 pounds. That’s a solid figure for a body-on-frame SUV. The LX 470 has a maximum GCWR of 12,240 lbs. New for 2008, the LX 570 is available up to 14,645 lbs. This is a big leap forward. This shows that Toyota has confidence in the new platform. The RX 350 is even lighter, starting at 7,520 pounds in 2007 and dropping to 6,020 pounds in 2008. Why did it drop? It can be a change in the way the rating is calculated or strengthening the chassis, which reduces the towed mass in favor of driving comfort. In 2006, the LS 430 sat at 6,140 pounds. Luxury sedans rarely need to be towed.
Lincoln’s Towing Power
During this time, Lincoln strongly developed its towing. From 2006 to 2009, the Mark LT pickup had a rating of 14,500 pounds. Be consistent. Reliable. The navigator is the main character. Its weight started at 11,900 lbs in 2006, jumped to 15,000 lbs in 2007 and remained there until 2009. This is a very serious capability. The smaller 2008 and 2009 MKX weigh in at 7,350 pounds. The Town Car is always a cruiser and not a hauler, weighing between 6,460 and 6,502 pounds. In 2009, the weight of the MKS was dropped to 5,277 lbs. Lincoln understands that size matters when it comes to towing.
Mazda’s practical limits
Mazda kept its numbers low. 2008-2009 B-Series trucks weigh around 4,800 to 7,000 pounds, depending on the engine. In 2007-2008, the B4000 weighed 7,000 pounds. From 2007 to 2008, the CX-9 SUV weighed in at 6,826 pounds, dropping slightly to 6,484 pounds in 2009. The CX-7 is still 5,860 pounds. These are small and medium sized vehicles. It is not designed for campers. The 2008 Tribute Hybrid has a GCWR of 4,747 pounds. Hybrid systems typically have lower tow ratings due to battery weight and engine cooling limitations. Mazda’s data shows that the brand prioritizes efficiency over hauling.
Mercedes-Benz Capabilities
Mercedes-Benz has changed its approach. The 2009 ML series weighs around 12,000 to 12,300 lbs. The ML63 AMG can carry 12,443 pounds. Even with high performance, tow rating. The GL series is heavy. In 2008-2009, the GL550 weighed 13,084 pounds. The G-Class is an anomaly. In 2007, the G500 weighed 12,695 pounds, dropping slightly to 12,661 pounds in 2008. The G55 weighs 12,783 pounds. These are fixed axle vehicles. Holds weight well. The R-class introduced in 2009 weighs 8,590 lbs. A minivan/SUV hybrid that can actually tow a boat. Most luxury brands ignore this segment.
Last year of Mercury
Mercury is decreasing, but the numbers is gradually increasing. The weight of the Grand Marquis increased from 5,688 pounds in 2006 to 6,600 pounds in 2009. From 2007 to 2009, the Mountaineer’s weight remained constant at 8,217 pounds. The Monterey minivan weighs 7,990 lbs. The Mariner Hybrid weighs around 4,800 to 4,900 pounds. The Sable is a light 4,793 pounds. Mercury uses a Ford platform, so these numbers reflect Ford products. The Grand Marquis is a full-size sedan. The gradual increase in this value suggests that as the model ages, Ford has improved its cooling and suspension to withstand heavier loads.
MINI’s Lack of Tow Rating
MINI data is scarce. Cooper hardtops, Clubmans and convertibles do not appear on the GCWR from 2006-2009. They don’t tow at all. The John Cooper Works model was an even more unlikely candidate. These are light sports cars. Adding a hitch can affect handling more than improve practicality. MINI leaves the towing market to the real cars.
Mitsubishi’s Odd Choices
Mitsubishi doesn’t have much choice here. Endeavor weighs about 6,000 to 7,500 pounds. Raider pickups have a hit of 8,583 to 8,600 lbs. was strong at 9,937 pounds in 2006, the Montero is very sturdy. The Outlander is more modest, weighing in at 4,891 to 5,682 pounds. The Lancer dropped to 3,895 lbs in 2006. Mitsubishi SUVs had some teeth, but crossovers are lighter. The numbers suggest that the brand is forging its own path in practicality without over-engineering its smaller models.
Nissan GCWR
Let’s start by looking at the Nissan lineup from the mid to late 2000s. The information here is mixed. Some models have clear numbers, others just a line. This line usually means that the manufacturer has not published a gross weight rating, or that the model is simply not suitable for towing.
In the 2006 models, the weight classes are Armada and Titan. The Armada carries a GCWR of 11,818 pounds. The Titan was slightly higher at 11,465 lbs. The Frontier sat in the middle at 10,676 lbs. When transporting the 2006 Pathfinder, it weighs 10,523 pounds. The Xterra came in at 9,658 lbs. The Murano is a light 8,100 pounds. The Quest? 7,662 lbs
There are few small cars. The Maxima was 4,623 lbs. The Altima? 4,151 lbs, the Sentra weighs just 3,663 kilograms. 350Z? There are no ratings. I’m not towing anything in that sports coupe.
In 2007, a change took place. The Altima Hybrid has a GCWR of 4,632 pounds. The Armada jumped to 12,800 lbs. The Frontier weighs 11,133 pounds. The Titan climbed to 11,600 lbs. The Sentra got a boost to 4,003 lbs. The Versa entered the frame, but no GCWR was listed. The weight of the Quest increases to 7,941 lbs.
In 2008, the Armada’s weight increased significantly to 15,100 lbs. The Pathfinder ticked up to 10,596 lbs. The Xterra dropped to 9,300 lbs. The Rogue entered the mix with a modest 4,430 lbs. The Titan hit 11,688 lbs. Versa is still unrated.
The GT-R was announced in 2009. There is no GCWR. That’s clear. The Murano dropped significantly to 7,505 lbs. The weight of the Altima Hybrid remains at around 4,620 lbs. The Frontier is back at 11,133 lbs. The Titan remained at 11,688 lbs. The Xterra held at 9,300 lbs.
If you want more detailed Nissan technical information, you can search Nissan GVWR, Nissan GAWR, Nissan Cargo Carrying Capacity, Nissan Curb Weight, Nissan Payload or Nissan Towing Capacity.
Pontiac GCWR
At this time, Pontiac was in its final years. The numbers are sparse, which reflects the decline of the brand.
The 2006 G6 has a GCWR of 4,530 lbs. The GTO was 4,578 lbs. The Grand Prix weighs 4,634 pounds. The Montana SV6 was surprisingly capable at 8,500 lbs. The Torrent was 7,310 lbs. The Vibe? 4,351 lbs summer solstice? there is nothing. You didn’t tow a Solstice.
In 2007, the G5 had a GCWR of 4,141 pounds. The weight of the G6 remains at 4,530 lbs. The weight of the Grand Prix drops slightly to 4,627 lbs. The Torrent climbed to 7,407 lbs. The Vibe held at 4,351 lbs. “Solstice” has not been rated yet.
In 2008, the G8 arrived. It’s a muscle car, but it can also be towed. GCWR is 6,035 lbs. The G5 still weighs 4,141 pounds. The weight of the G6 drops to 4,455 lbs. The Grand Prix weighs 4,627 pounds. Trent’s weight is still 7,310 kilos. The Vibe’s weight drops to 4,350 kilograms. summer solstice? Nothing yet.
By 2009, the G5’s weight had dropped to 3,902 pounds. The weight of the G6 remains at 4,455 lbs. The G8 is still £6,035. The Torrent was 7,310 lbs. The Vibe’s weight goes up to 4,506 lbs. Solstice continued to attend to the tow.
For more detailed Pontiac information, see Pontiac GVWR, Pontiac GAWR, Pontiac Cargo Capacity, Pontiac Vehicle Weight, Pontiac Payload or Pontiac Towing Capacity.
Porsche GCWR
Porsche is a different beast. The Cayenne is a durable SUV. Both the 911 and the Boxster are sports cars. The Cayman is a mid-engined coupe. The difference in GCWR is very noticeable.
The 2006 Cayenne had a GCWR of 12,628 pounds. This is a critical traffic area.
For 2008, the 911, Boxster and Cayman do not have a GCWR listed. It probably won’t tow a Porsche sports car. However, the Cayenne’s weight remains stable at 12,628 kilograms.
As of 2009, the 911 Carrera, Boxster and Cayman have yet to be rated. The Cayenne weighs slightly more at 12,650 pounds. It’s a niche number, but it’s there.
More detailed Porsche technical data can be found under Porsche GVWR, Porsche GAWR, Porsche Cargo Capacity, Porsche Vehicle Weight, Porsche Load Capacity or Porsche Towing Capacity.
Serve GCWR
Saab declined, but the 9-7X survived and shared DNA with the GMT900 truck.
In 2006, the 9-2X had a GCWR of 5,220 pounds. The 9-3 weighs 5,430 pounds. The 9-5 weighs 7,120 pounds. The 9-7X is the largest, weighing 10,500 pounds.
In 2007, the 9-3 dropped slightly to 5,380 lbs. The 9-5 weighs 7,120 pounds. The weight of the 9-7X remains at 10,500 lbs.
In 2008, the 9-3’s weight remained at 5,380 pounds. The 9-5 weighs 7,120 pounds. The weight of the 9-7X remains at 10,500 lbs.
By 2009, the 9-3 had ballooned to 5,680 pounds. The 9-5 weighs 7,120 pounds. The weight of the 9-7X remains at 10,500 lbs. It was one of the last cars to receive this rating before Saab disappeared.
See detailed Saab technical data under Saab GVWR, Saab GAWR, Saab Cargo Capacity, Saab curb weight, Saab payload or Saab Towing Capacity.
Saturn GCWR
Saturn is also in decline. Models have changed and ratings vary by platform.
In 2006, the Ion’s GCWR was 3,946 pounds. The Relay is an 8500 pound truck. VUE is £4,857.
In 2007, Aura was born. GCWR is 4,678 lbs. A plow hybrid? There are no ratings. Ionic weight has dropped to 3,902 lbs. The Outlook is a midsize SUV with a GCWR of 9,500 pounds. The weight of the relay was reduced to 7,918 lbs. Sky? There are no ratings. VUE is still £4,857. The VUE Hybrid’s curb weight jumps to 4,857 pounds.
In 2008, Astra had no ratings. The plow weighs 4,678 kilograms. Aura Hybrid is still unclassified. Expected weight drops to 6,872 lbs. Sky is not rated. VUE rises to £5,475. The VUE Hybrid weighs 5,439 lbs.
Astra was not evaluated in 2009. The plow weighs 4,678 kilograms. Aura Hybrid has no rating. The outlook is slightly lower at £6,852. Sky is not rated. VUE will be organized on the 5th
Volkswagen GCWR by model and year
For Volkswagen, the numbers tell a different story, especially when looking at heavier haulers. Most of the company’s product range does not have a specific Gross Combined Weight Rating in the standard table. This is usually because these models are not designed to tow anything substantial.
But what about the Touareg? It’s a different beast.
The 2006 Touareg had a GCWR of 12,952 lbs. The following year, the weight of the 2007 model increased slightly to 13,034 lbs. In 2008, the Touareg 2 appeared on the market, but the specific rating was not always confirmed in the basic charts. The 2009 model has a GCWR of 12,952 lbs.
Other Volkswagens also have restrictions, but they are far more modest.
The 2009 Routan is a minivan that can actually tow and sat at 6,771 lbs. The Tiguan is smaller, more compact and managed 5,748 lbs. Other vehicles (Golf, GTI, Jetta, Beetle, Passat, Phaeton, Rabbit, Eos, GLI, R32) usually do not show a specific rating. This means that the GCWR is equal to the GVWR, which means that the trailer has zero capacity. As you might guess, you tow with a Golf. Guessing is dangerous.
Volvo GCWR by model and year
Volvo’s game is a bit more open. Their ratings are listed, and there are enough differences to be to matter.
In the 2006 lineup, the XC90 leads the pack at 8,694 lbs. The S80 and C70 are close at 7,184 lbs and 7,222 lbs respectively. The smaller S40 and V50 are lower at around 5,375 lbs and 5,476 lbs.
That changed in 2007. The XC90 has dropped slightly to 8,570 lbs. The S80 is now down to 6,943 lbs. The C70 took a significant hit, dropping to 5,942 lbs.
By 2008, the XC70 jumped significantly to 7,549 lbs. The S80 was held steady near 7,282 lbs. The C30 is a compact hatchback that hovered around 5,105 lbs.
A similar trend can be seen in the 2009 model year as well. The XC90 weighs 8,476 lbs. The XC70 remained at 7,549 lbs. The S80 climbed to 7,425 lbs. The S40 and V50 weigh around 5,000 pounds and weigh in at around 5,423 pounds and 5,471 pounds respectively.
Why is this important? Because when towing a boat, camper or even a heavy utility trailer, the difference between 5,000 lbs and 8,500 lbs is more than just a number. It’s the difference between feeling safe and snapping a tow hitch.
What these numbers really mean
Looking at these charts, you might wonder why so many cars have a dashes. This is not a oversight. This is the legal and engineering boundary.
GCWR is an abbreviation of Gross Combined Weight Rating. This is the maximum weight allowed for the car plus the trailer plus everything in both. It includes fuel, passengers, cargo and the trailer itself.
If a car does not have a GCWR number, it usually means that the manufacturer did not design it to be towed. The gearbox, cooling system, brakes and frame do not rated for the stress. Towing an unrated vehicle voids the warranty and puts you at risk of catastrophic failure.
For models that do have ratings, such as the Volvo XC90 and Volkswagen Touareg, the number is.
