We talk about torque and zero-to-sixty times. We obsess over cubic feet of cargo space. Fuel economy is second nature. These are the numbers that sell cars. They are the metrics we memorize when shopping for a new ride. But there is one statistic that trips up even seasoned drivers. It is not a mystery to the pros, but for most buyers, it is a blind spot.
That number is the gross combination weight rating.
If you plan to tow a trailer, ignoring this number is a mistake. It is not just a suggestion from the manufacturer. It is a hard limit. Breach it and you risk more than just a voided warranty. You risk losing control of a multi-ton combination of metal and rubber.
Defining the Limit
The term sounds bureaucratic. It is not. It is simple physics. The gross combination weight rating is the maximum allowable weight of a loaded tow vehicle plus its attached loaded trailer. The total cannot exceed this figure. Period.
This is distinct from the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The GVWR applies to the single vehicle. The GCWR applies to the pair. Think of it as the weight limit for the entire train.
“A vehicle’s GCWR is a specific weight determined by the manufacturer to be the maximum weight of a loaded tow vehicle and its attached loaded trailer.”
How is this number derived? It is not arbitrary. Ford, and likely other manufacturers, calculate it by summing specific components:
* The vehicle’s listed curb weight.
* Allowable payload.
* Weight of driver and passengers.
* Weight of the trailer.
It is important to clarify what the GCWR is not. It is not a measurement of your actual current weight. It is not a target. It is the ceiling. The highest possible point before the engineering limits are exceeded.
The Safety Logic
Why do manufacturers set these rigid boundaries? Safety. Plain and simple.
Overloading a vehicle is dangerous. Overloading a combination is catastrophic. When you push past the limits, several systems fail in sequence.
The brakes overheat. Friction is a heat engine. Too much mass means the brakes cannot dissipate energy fast enough. You lose stopping power. You might not stop at all.
The tires fail. They have a load index. Exceed it and they blow out. A blowout at highway speeds with a trailer attached is a death sentence.
The drivetrain overheats. The engine struggles. The transmission slips. Mechanical failure follows.
The suspension collapses. Bushings bend. Control arms break. You lose steering input.
There are no second chances on a highway. The GCWR exists to prevent these failures. Never surpass it.
Finding Your Rating
Where do you look? The information is not hidden. It is right there on the vehicle.
Look for the label inside the driver’s side door frame. This is near the latch where the door closes. The manufacturer prints the GCWR there. If you lose the label, or if you are buying a used car, check the manufacturer’s website. Most brands publish these specs online.
Acura GCWR Specs
If you drive an Acura, the limits vary significantly by model year. The 2006 MDX had a much lower rating than its 2007-2009 counterparts. The newer models can haul significantly more.
| Year | Model | GCWR (lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| 2006 | MDX | 8121 |
| 2006 | RL | 5162 |
| 2006 | RSX | 4384 |
| 2006 | TL | 4730 |
| 2006 | TSX | – |
| 2007 | MDX | 10053 |
| 2007 | RL | 5164 |
| 2007 | RDX | 6394 |
| 2007 | TL | 4773 |
| 2007 | TSX | 4407 |
| 2008 | MDX | 10053 |
| 2008 | RL | 5164 |
| 2008 | RSX | 6394 |
| 2008 | TL | 4773 |
| 2008 | TSX | 4407 |
| 2009 | MDX | 10053 |
| 2009 | RL | 5233 |
| 2009 | RSX | 5574 |
| 2009 | TSX | 4550 |
More Acura Specs:
– Acura GVWR
– Acura GAWR
– Acura Cargo Carrying Capacity
– Acura Curb Weight
– Acura Payload
– Acura Towing Capacity
Audi GCWR Specs
Audi’s lineup shows different constraints. The Q7 is the primary hauler here. The sports cars like the TT and R8 have minimal towing capability or none at all.
| Year | Model | GCWR (lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| 2006 | A3 | – |
| 2006 | A4 | – |
| 2006 | A6 | – |
| 2006 | A8 | – |
| 2006 | S4 | – |
| 2006 | TT | – |
| 2007 | A3 | – |
| 2007 | A4 | – |
| 2007 | A6 | – |
| 2007 | A8 | – |
| 2007 | Q7 | 10665 |
| 2007 | RS4 | – |
| 2007 | S4 | – |
| 2007 | S6 | – |
| 2007 | S8 | – |
| 2008 | A3 | – |
| 2008 | A4 | – |
| 2008 | A5 | – |
| 2008 | A6 | – |
| 2008 | A8 | – |
| 2008 | Q7 | 10665 |
| 2008 | R8 | – |
| 2008 | RS4 | – |
| 2008 | S4 | – |
| 2008 | S5 | – |
| 2008 | S6 | – |
| 2008 | S8 | – |
| 2008 | TT | – |
| 2009 | A3 | – |
| 2009 | A4 | – |
| 2009 | A5 | – |
| 2009 | A8 | – |
| 2009 | Q7 | 10665 |
| 2009 | R8 | – |
| 2009 | S4 | – |
| 2009 | S5 | – |
| 2009 | S8 | – |
| 2009 | TT | – |
More Audi Specs:
– Audi GVWR
– Audi GAWR
– Audi Cargo Carrying Capacity
– Audi Curb Weight
– Audi Payload
– Audi Towing Capacity
BMW Towing Limits and GCWR Data
Not every BMW is built to haul heavy gear. The numbers drop off quickly once you leave the SUV category. If you are towing a boat or a large trailer, you need to look at Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR). This is the total weight of the vehicle plus cargo, passengers, and the trailer. It is not the same as towing capacity. You have to stay under this limit to avoid stressing the drivetrain.
2006–2007 BMW Models
The 3 Series and 5 Series from this era do not have listed GCWRs. You likely should not tow them unless you know your specific trim. The M3, M5, and M6 also lack data. High-performance sedans were not designed for heavy loads.
The X3 handles up to 7,673 lbs in 2006. The 2007 X3 drops slightly to 7,662 lbs. That is barely enough for a small utility trailer.
The X5 is the real hauler here. 2006 models hit 10,802 lbs. 2007 models improved to 11,132 lbs. If you need to pull a mid-sized camper, the 2007 X5 is your best bet in this window.
2008–2009 BMW Models
2008 brought the X6. It sits at 11,044 lbs GCWR. It shares the platform with the X5 but has a lower roof and a sportier profile. The towing limit reflects that compromise.
The X5 stayed consistent at 11,132 lbs in 2008. In 2009, it dipped slightly to 11,066 lbs.
Small cars like the 128, 135, and 328 have no listed ratings. Avoid towing with them. The M3 and M5 also have no data. Stick to the SUVs if you need to tow.
Buick GCWR Breakdown
Buick kept it simple in the late 2000s. The luxury sedans have low limits. The SUVs pick up the slack.
2006–2009 Buick Sedans
The LaCrosse stays flat at 4,645 lbs GCWR across 2006 to 2009. The Lucerne is slightly higher at 4,914 lbs. These numbers are tight. You can pull a small jet ski, maybe. Do not try to tow a travel trailer.
The Pacifica minivan varies. 2006 models sit at 4,297 lbs. 2007 jumps to 7,105 lbs. By 2008, it is 4,297 lbs again. The 2009 model holds at 4,297 lbs. The 2007 spike is an anomaly or a specific trim difference. Check the door jamb sticker.
2006–2009 Buick SUVs and Minivans
The Rainier was a solid hauler. 2006 and 2007 models both hit 10,500 lbs. That is serious towing power for a mid-size SUV.
The Rendezvous managed 7,746 lbs in 2006 and 2007. It disappeared after that.
The Terraza minivan handled 8,500 lbs in 2006. It was replaced by the Enclave.
The Enclave starts in 2008 with a 9,500 lb GCWR. It holds that line in 2009. If you need to tow a horse trailer or a large boat, the Enclave is the logical choice. It offers modern space and decent towing numbers.
Cadillac GCWR Specifications
Cadillac trucks and large sedans dominate the towing charts here. The Escalade line is the heavy hitter.
2006–2009 Cadillac SUVs
The Escalade starts strong in 2006 at 12,902 lbs. The ESV (Extended Service Vehicle) is longer and heavier, hitting 14,000 lbs. The EXT pickup variant sits at 13,464 lbs.
In 2007, the standard Escalade jumps to 14,000 lbs. The ESV stays at 14,000 lbs. The EXT also hits 14,000 lbs. This is a massive increase. The 2007 model year seems to have reinforced the frame or optimized the cooling for heavy loads.
2008 and 2009 keep the Escalade line at 14,000 lbs. The ESV and EXT also remain at 14,000 lbs.
The Escalade Hybrid appears in 2009 with a 6,314 lb GCWR. It is lower than the gas version. Efficiency comes at the cost of towing power.
2006–2009 Cadillac Sedans
The CTS is modest. 2006 and 2007 models are at 4,659 lbs. 2008 and 2009 move up to 5,011 lbs.
The CTS-V is stronger. 2006 and 2007 sit at 5,000 lbs. It does not improve in later years.
The DTS holds steady at 5,159 lbs from 2006 to 2009.
The SRX starts at 5,314 lbs in 2006. 2007 and 2008 jump to 6,314 lbs. 2009 drops back to 5,123 lbs. The fluctuation is confusing. Stick to the 2007-2008 specs if you can find them.
The STS is around 5,000 lbs. The STS-V is slightly higher. 2006 is 5,383 lbs. 2007 jumps to 5,544 lbs. 2008 and 2009 stay at 5,544 lbs.
The XLR and XLR-V have no listed GCWRs. Do not tow with them.
Chevrolet GCWR by Model
Chevrolet offers a wide range of towing options. From small compacts to heavy-duty trucks, the numbers vary wildly.
2006–2009 Chevrolet Small Cars and Crossovers
The Aveo has no towing rating. Skip it if you need to tow.
The Cobalt holds at 4,141 lbs from 2006 to 2009. It is not a tow vehicle.
The Colorado starts at 5,218 lbs in 2006. 2007 improves to 5,772 lbs. 2008 and 2009 jump to 7,000 lbs. The mid-cycle refresh helped significantly.
The Equinox stays constant at 7,252 lbs from 2006 to 2009. It is a reliable choice for moderate towing.
The HHR is low at 4,305 lbs. It does not change over the years.
The Impala is around 4,700 lbs. 2006 is 4,703 lbs. 2007-2009 is 4,705 lbs. The Malibu has no listed rating. The Malibu Classic in 2008 is 4,447 lbs. The Malibu Hybrid has no rating.
2006–2009 Chevrolet Trucks and Vans
The Avalanche 1500 drops over time. 2006 is 12,863 lbs. 2007 and 2008 are 13,000 lbs. 2009 drops to 11,000 lbs. The 2009 drop is strange. Check your specific VIN.
The Avalanche 2500 hits 16,878 lbs in 2006. It disappears after that.
The Express vans vary by year. 2006 is 9,500 lbs. 2007-2008 hold at 9,500 lbs. 2009 splits the difference. The 1500 and 3500 models hit 12,000 lbs. The 2500 model drops to 11,788 lbs.
The Silverado 1500 Classic and standard 1500 models hover around 10,000 lbs in later years. 2006 HD versions hit 13,793 lbs. The 2500 HD and 3500 HD trucks max out at 16,000 lbs.
The Suburban 150
Ford GCWR
Ford’s lineup in this era ranged from the heavy-duty Super Duty trucks to compact crossovers. The 2006 F-Series dominated the towing charts. The F-250 and F-350 both sat at a 15000 lb Gross Combined Weight Rating. By 2007, those numbers jumped to 17000 lbs. The F-450 appeared in 2008 with a massive 27000 lb rating.
Lighter trucks told a different story. The 2006 Ranger hit 9360 lbs. It dropped significantly by 2007 to 5820 lbs before climbing back to 6000 in 2008 and 2009. The F-150 remained steady around 11700 lbs from 2006 through 2008, then spiked to 14950 in 2009.
SUVs and vans held their own. The E-Series Super Duty (2006) maxed out at 13000 lbs. The 2006 Explorer sat at 7700 lbs, rising to 8500 in 2007 and 2008. The Expedition EL reached 15078 lbs in 2007 and 2008.
| Year | Model | GCWR (lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| 2006 | Crown Victoria | 5592 |
| 2006 | E 150 | 11318 |
| 2006 | E 250 | 10912 |
| 2006 | E 350 Super Duty | 13000 |
| 2006 | Escape | 4830 |
| 2006 | Escape Hybrid | 4777 |
| 2006 | Explorer | 7700 |
| 2006 | F 150 | 11665 |
| 2006 | F 250 | 15000 |
| 2006 | F 350 | 15000 |
| 2006 | Five Hundred | 4799 |
| 2006 | Focus | 3771 |
| 2006 | Freestar | 7945 |
| 2006 | Freestyle | 6109 |
| 2006 | Ranger | 9360 |
| 2007 | Crown Victoria | 5751 |
| 2007 | E 150 | 11500 |
| 2007 | E 250 | 11000 |
| 2007 | E 350 Super Duty | 13000 |
| 2007 | Edge | 6248 |
| 2007 | Escape | 4830 |
| 2007 | Escape Hybrid | 4777 |
| 2007 | Expedition | 14928 |
| 2007 | Expedition EL | 15078 |
| 2007 | Explorer | 8500 |
| 2007 | Explorer Sport Trac | 10000 |
| 2007 | F 150 | 11700 |
| 2007 | F 250 | 17000 |
| 2007 | F 350 | 17000 |
| 2007 | Five Hundred | 4793 |
| 2007 | Focus | 3771 |
| 2007 | Freestar | 7000 |
| 2007 | Freestyle | 6109 |
| 2007 | Mustang | 4611 |
| 2007 | Ranger | 5820 |
| 2008 | E 150 | 11500 |
| 2008 | E 250 | 11500 |
| 2008 | E 350 Super Duty | 13000 |
| 2008 | Edge | 6248 |
| 2008 | Escape | 4940 |
| 2008 | Escape Hybrid | 4788 |
| 2008 | Expedition | 14928 |
| 2008 | Expedition EL | 15078 |
| 2008 | Explorer | 8500 |
| 2008 | Explorer Sport Trac | 8500 |
| 2008 | F 150 | 11765 |
| 2008 | F 250 | 15000 |
| 2008 | F 350 | 17000 |
| 2008 | F 450 | 27000 |
| 2008 | Mustang | 4611 |
| 2008 | Ranger | 6000 |
| 2008 | Taurus | 4793 |
| 2008 | Taurus X | 6183 |
| 2009 | E 150 | 11500 |
| 2009 | E 250 | 11500 |
| 2009 | E 350 Super Duty | 13000 |
| 2009 | Edge | 6248 |
| 2009 | Escape | 4940 |
| 2009 | Escape Hybrid | 4788 |
| 2009 | Expedition | 15000 |
| 2009 | Explorer | 8110 |
| 2009 | Explorer Sport Trac | 8233 |
| 2009 | F 150 | 14950 |
| 2009 | F 450 | 16983 |
| 2009 | Flex | 6900 |
| 2009 | Mustang | 4611 |
| 2009 | Ranger | 6000 |
| 2009 | Taurus | 4793 |
| 2009 | Taurus X | 6183 |
GMC GCWR
GMC’s heavy haulers mirrored Ford’s trend but with different numbers. The 2006 Sierra 2500 and 3500 shared a 15792 lb rating. By 2008, the Sierra 3500 climbed to 16000 lbs. The Sierra 2500 stayed steady at 15858 lbs from 2007 to 2009.
The Yukon family was smaller in capability. The standard Yukon sat at 10000 lbs from 2007 onward. The Yukon XL held 13000 lbs in 2006 and 2007, then dropped to 11000 in 2009. The Yukon Hybrid maxed out at 12000 lbs in 2008 and 2009.
Compact and mid-size trucks lagged behind. The Canyon started at 5179 lbs in 2006, rising to 5887 by 2009. The Acadia, introduced in 2007, held a flat 9500 lb rating through 2009. The Envoy stayed around 10000 lbs across its final years.
| Year | Model | GCWR (lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| 2006 | Canyon | 5179 |
| 2006 | Envoy | 10000 |
| 2006 | Envoy XL | 10000 |
| 2006 | Savana 1500 | 9500 |
| 2006 | Savana 2500 | 12000 |
| 2006 | Savana 350 |
German and Japanese Luxury GCWR Breakdown
Land Rover’s heavy hitters dominate the upper tier. The Land Rover LR3 and Range Rover models consistently sit above the 13,000-pound Combined Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GCWR) mark. If you’re hauling a heavy trailer with a 2007 Range Rover Sport, you’re looking at 13,334 lbs. By 2009, the LR3 climbed to 13,662 lbs. That’s serious towing capacity. The Range Rover itself stayed steady around 13,324 to 13,564 lbs depending on the year. It’s not just about pulling; it’s about the total mass the drivetrain and frame can handle before you start worrying about brake fade or suspension sag.
Lexus takes a different approach. Their GCWR numbers are more scattered, reflecting a lineup that ranges from sporty sedans to massive off-roaders. The Lexus LX 470 and its successor, the LX 570, are the real haulers here. The LX 470 holds a steady 12,240 lbs from 2006 to 2007. When the LX 570 arrived in 2008, that number jumped to 14,645 lbs. That’s a significant increase in total allowable weight. The Lexus GX 470 sits just below at 11,521 lbs. If you’re driving something like an RX 350, the GCWR drops drastically to 6,020 lbs in 2008 and 2009. You aren’t taking that SUV on a long trip with a full boat. The LS 430 from 2006 offers 6,140 lbs, but later LS models like the LS 460 don’t even list a GCWR, implying they aren’t rated for towing at all.
Lincoln keeps it simple with large vehicles. The Navigator is the workhorse. In 2006, it sat at 11,900 lbs. By 2007, it pushed to 15,000 lbs and stayed there through 2009. That’s a solid number for a full-size SUV. The Mark LT is even higher at 14,500 lbs across 2006 to 2008. Smaller Lincolns like the MKX hover around 6,370 to 7,350 lbs, and the Town Car is stuck in the 6,460 to 6,502 lb range. You wouldn’t use a Town Car for serious towing, and the numbers confirm it.
Mazda and Mercury: The Ford Connection
Mazda’s GCWR data is a bit of a mixed bag, heavily influenced by their partnership with Ford. The B-Series trucks show clear progression. The B2300 starts at 4,744 lbs in 2006 and climbs slightly to 4,800 lbs in 2007 and 2008. The B4000, a more robust version, hits 6,973 lbs in 2006, stays at 7,000 lbs in 2007 and 2008, then drops slightly to 6,952 lbs in 2009. Why the drop? Might be a slight adjustment in payload distribution or a conservative rating for that year.
The CX-9 is another key player. It starts at 6,826 lbs in 2007, holds steady in 2008, then dips to 6,484 lbs in 2009. That’s a notable decrease. If you’re towing a trailer with a 2009 CX-9, you have significantly less margin for error than with a 2007 model. The Tribute hybrid is even more restrictive. In 2008, it’s rated at just 4,747 lbs. That’s barely enough for the car itself plus a light load.
Mercury mirrors Mazda closely, as expected. The Mountaineer starts at 8,111 lbs in 2006 and climbs to 8,217 lbs by 2007, where it stays through 2009. The Monterey minivan holds steady at 7,990 lbs. The Grand Marquis shows steady growth: 5,688 lbs in 2006, 5,787 in 2007, 6,000 in 2008, and finally 6,600 in 2009. That’s a massive jump in the final year. Someone decided the platform could handle more weight, or perhaps they loosened the restrictions. Either way, a 2009 Grand Marquis has significantly more GCWR than its 2006 counterpart.
Mercedes-Benz and MINI: Precision Engineering Limits
Mercedes-Benz GCWR figures tell a story of specialization. Small cars like the C-Class, E-Class, and S-Class generally have no listed GCWR, meaning they aren’t intended for towing. But the SUVs and trucks are built differently. The G-Class (G500) is a beast, sitting at 12,695 lbs in 2007 and 12,661 lbs in 2008. The GL-Class models are even higher. The GL320 hits 12,946 lbs in 2007 and climbs to 12,963 lbs in 2008. The GL550 reaches 13,084 lbs in both 2008 and 2009. That’s over 13,000 lbs of total allowable weight.
The ML-Class varies more. The ML350 sits around 12,055 to 12,167 lbs. The ML500 is slightly higher at 12,145 lbs. The ML63 AMG is rated at 12,443 lbs across multiple years. It’s interesting that the AMG doesn’t get a higher rating than the standard ML500 despite having a more powerful engine. Maybe the suspension or brakes are the limiting factor, not the engine power. The R-Class only appears in 2009 with a GCWR of 8,590 lbs. That’s respectable for a large crossover, but nothing compared to the G-Class or GL-Class.
MINI is a different story entirely. The Cooper Convertible, Cooper Hardtop, and John Cooper Works models all show a dash for GCWR. Why? Because MINI doesn’t rate these cars for towing. At least not in this dataset. You can’t tow a trailer with a 2009 John Cooper Works Clubman. The engineering focus is on agility and handling, not payload and towing capacity. It’s a trade-off. You get a fun, nimble car, but you lose the utility of a tow vehicle. If you need to haul something, look elsewhere.
Mitsubishi: Niche Ratings and Declining Options
Mitsubishi’s GCWR data is sparse, especially in the later years. The Outlander starts at 4,891 lbs in 2006, climbs to 5,682 lbs in 2007, then drops back down to 5,045 lbs in 2008. That’s a strange fluctuation. Maybe they revised the rating based on real-world testing. The Endeavor also varies wildly: 7,519 lbs in 2006, down to 6,108 lbs in 2007, then up to 7,552 lbs in 2008. It’s inconsistent. If you’re buying a used Endeavor, check the specific year’s rating carefully.
The Raider, a rebadged Dodge Dakota, holds a steady 8,600 lbs in 2006 and 2008, with a slight dip to 8,583 lbs in 2007. It’s a solid, predictable number. The Montero sits at 9,937 lbs in 2006. After that, it disappears from the data. The Lancer has a low rating of 3,895 lbs in 2006, then vanishes. Mitsubishi seems to be pulling back from towing ratings in the later years, or perhaps they stopped publishing them for smaller models.
So, what’s the takeaway? GCWR isn’t just a number. It’s a hard limit. Exceed it, and you’re risking everything from blown transmissions to failed brakes. Check
Nissan GCWR
Nissan’s lineup from 2006 to 2009 offers a wide spread of Gross Combined Weight Ratings (GCWR). If you are looking at the heavier trucks, the Frontier and Titan are the workhorses. The 2006 Titan sat at 11,465 lbs. The 2007 model bumped that to 11,600 lbs. By 2008, it crept up to 11,688 lbs and held steady into 2009. The Frontier followed a similar arc. 2006 models rated at 10,676 lbs. 2007 jumped to 11,133 lbs. Then 2008 dipped back to 10,676 lbs before returning to 11,133 lbs in 2009.
The Armada started at 11,818 lbs in 2006. It climbed to 12,800 lbs in 2007. Then it saw a massive jump in 2008 to 15,100 lbs. That figure remained static through 2009. For crossovers, the Pathfinder was stuck at 10,523 lbs for 2006 and 2007. It ticked up to 10,596 lbs in 2008 and 2009. The Murano held steady at 8,100 lbs for two years before dropping to 7,505 lbs in 2009. The Xterra started at 9,658 lbs, held that in 2007, then dropped to 9,300 lbs for the final two years.
Sedans and smaller cars had much lower limits. The Altima hovered around 4,200 lbs. It started at 4,151 in 2006. 2007 and 2008 sat at 4,205. 2009 moved slightly to 4,217. The hybrid Altima was rated at 4,632 lbs in 2007 and 2008, then dropped to 4,620 lbs in 2009. The Maxima stayed in the 4,600-4,700 range. The Sentra grew from 3,663 lbs in 2006 to 4,047 lbs in 2008 and 2009. The Versa had no official rating listed for these years. The 350Z and GT-R also lacked published GCWR figures.
Pontiac GCWR
Pontiac’s final years show a narrowing field. The G5 started at 4,141 lbs in 2007 and 2008. It dropped to 3,902 lbs in 2009. The G6 held at 4,530 lbs for 2006 and 2007. It dipped to 4,455 lbs in 2008 and 2009. The Grand Prix was stable, sitting around 4,627-4,634 lbs across the board. The G8 was the only heavy hitter here, rated at 6,035 lbs for both 2008 and 2009.
The Torrent, Pontiac’s crossover, saw minor fluctuations. It started at 7,310 lbs in 2006. It rose to 7,407 lbs in 2007. Then it returned to 7,310 lbs for the last two years. The Vibe, built on the Corolla platform, stayed at 4,351 lbs for 2006-2008. It ticked up to 4,506 lbs in 2009. The Solstice, GTO, and Montana SV6 had no listed GCWR for most or all of these years, except the Montana SV6 in 2006 which sat at 8,500 lbs.
Porsche GCWR
Porsche kept it simple. The Cayenne was the only vehicle with a listed GCWR. It sat at 12,628 lbs for 2006 and 2008. In 2009, it increased slightly to 12,650 lbs. The 911, Boxster, and Cayman had no listed GCWR ratings. This makes sense given their low towing capacities, often limited or non-existent depending on the specific configuration and year.
Saab GCWR
Saab’s numbers were remarkably stable for the 9-5 and 9-7X. The 9-5 held at 7,120 lbs from 2006 through 2009. The 9-7X was locked at 10,500 lbs for the same period. The 9-3 saw a gradual increase. It started at 5,430 lbs in 2006. It dipped slightly to 5,380 lbs in 2007 and 2008. Then it jumped to 5,680 lbs in 2009. The 9-2X, the Subaru-badged variant, was rated at 5,220 lbs in 2006.
Saturn GCWR
Saturn’s later years saw some weirdness with the Outlook. It started at 9,500 lbs in 2007. Then it dropped significantly to 6,872 lbs in 2008 and 6,852 lbs in 2009. The VUE Hybrid held steady at 4,857 lbs in 2007. It rose to 5,475 lbs in 2008 and held that in 2009. The non-hybrid VUE started at 4,857 lbs, then increased to 5,475 lbs for the final two years.
The Aura sat at 4,678 lbs across all years it was produced. The Ion started at 3,946 lbs in 2006 and dropped to 3,902 lbs in 2007. The Relay, Saturn’s minivan, started at 8,500 lbs in 2006, then dropped to 7,918 lbs in 2007. The Sky, Astra, and Aura Hybrid had no listed GCWRs.
Scion GCWR
Scion’s entry-level models generally did not have published GCWR figures. The tC, xA, xB, and xD all show dashes for every year from 2006 to 2009. This indicates they were not rated for towing by the manufacturer, or at least no official figure was provided in these specs.
smart GCWR
The smart fortwo had no listed GCWR in 2008. This is consistent with its tiny footprint and limited powertrain options. It was not designed for towing tasks.
Subaru GCWR
Subaru’s AWD lineup shows some interesting shifts in GCWR. The Outback started at 6,160 lbs in 2006. It rose to 6,180 lbs in 2007. It hit 6,200 lbs in 2008 and 6,207 lbs in 2009. The Legacy Sedan started at 6,050 lbs, moved to 6,120 lbs in 2007, held that in 2008, and stayed at 6,120 lbs in 2009. The Legacy Wagon started at 6,105 lbs, dropped to 6,105 lbs in 2007, then 6,120 lbs in 2008.
The Forester began at 5,640 lbs in 2006. It increased to 5,690 lbs in 2007 and held that in 2008. The 2009 model had no listed figure. The Tribeca started at 7,805 lbs for the B9 version in 2006 and 2007. It dropped to 6,290 lbs for the standard Tribeca name in 2008 and 2009. The Impreza Outback Sport held at 5,208 lbs for 2006 and 2007. Later years saw dashes for many Impreza variants.
Suzuki GCWR
Suzuki’s numbers were volatile. The XL
The data for Volkswagen’s Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) is sparse for the mid-2000s. Most models like the Golf, GTI, Jetta, Beetle, Passat, and R32 have no listed figures. You are left guessing if those cars can tow anything at all.
Volkswagen Towing Limits by Year
The 2006 Volkswagen Touareg holds a GCWR of 12,952 lbs. That is the only number in the column. The rest of the lineup is blank.
In 2007, the Touareg sees a slight bump. Its GCWR rises to 13,034 lbs. The Eos joins the roster but still lacks a rating. The Jetta, Passat, and Beetle variants remain undefined.
2008 brings the R32 and GLI into the mix, yet their GCWRs are still missing. The Touareg 2 appears but has no specific rating listed here.
By 2009, the picture gets clearer, but only for the larger vehicles. The Volkswagen Routan minivan is rated at 6,771 lbs. The Tiguan SUV sits lower at 5,748 lbs. The Touareg 2 returns with a GCWR of 12,952 lbs.
“Most VWs from this era lack published GCWR data, forcing owners to rely on curb weight and payload limits for towing calculations.”
For context, you should also check the Volkswagen GVWR, GAWR, Cargo Carrying Capacity, Curb Weight, Payload, and Towing Capacity for a complete picture of what these vehicles can handle.
Volvo GCWR Data: 2006-2009
Volvo is more transparent. The numbers are there, even if they vary significantly by model.
2006 Volvo Models
The XC90 dominates with a GCWR of 8,694 lbs. The C70 comes in at 7,222 lbs. The S80 reaches 7,184 lbs. The XC70 is rated at 7,125 lbs.
The smaller cars are much more limited. The V70 holds 6,746 lbs. The S60 sits at 6,843 lbs.
The S40 and V50 are lighter, with GCWRs of 5,375 lbs and 5,476 lbs respectively.
2007 Volvo Models
The XC90 drops slightly to 8,570 lbs.
The C70 takes a hit, falling to 5,942 lbs.
The S80 also drops to 6,943 lbs.
The XC70 remains steady at 7,125 lbs.
The V70 stays at 6,746 lbs.
The S60 increases marginally to 6,951 lbs.
The S40 and V50 tick up to 5,384 lbs and 5,494 lbs.
2008 Volvo Models
The C30 appears with a low GCWR of 5,105 lbs.
The XC90 holds firm at 8,570 lbs.
The XC70 jumps to 7,549 lbs.
The S80 increases to 7,282 lbs.
The V70 climbs to 6,977 lbs.
The S60 remains at 6,973 lbs.
The **C70
