Atlas

Atlas Towing Capacity

The Atlas is a versatile SUV known for its spacious interior, advanced technology, and robust performance. One of the critical aspects of any SUV is its towing capacity, which determines how much weight the vehicle can safely pull. Whether you’re hauling a trailer, a boat, or a camper, understanding the Atlas towing capacity is essential for making informed decisions about your towing needs.

What is Towing Capacity?

Towing capacity refers to the maximum weight a vehicle can safely tow. This includes the weight of the trailer and its contents. Exceeding the towing capacity can lead to severe damage to the vehicle and pose safety risks. Therefore, it’s crucial to know the specific towing capacity of your Atlas model before hitching up.

Atlas Towing Capacity by Model Year

The towing capacity of the Atlas varies depending on the model year and engine configuration. Generally, the Atlas comes equipped with either a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine or a 3.6-liter V6 engine. The V6 engine models typically offer higher towing capacities.

2024 Atlas Towing Capacity: The 2024 Atlas, equipped with the 3.6-liter V6 engine, can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. The 2.0-liter turbocharged model, on the other hand, has a towing capacity of around 2,000 pounds.
2023 Atlas Towing Capacity: Similar to the 2024 model, the 2023 Atlas V6 engine variant offers a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, while the four-cylinder model can tow up to 2,000 pounds.
2022 Atlas Towing Capacity: The 2022 Atlas maintains the same towing capacity as the 2023 model, with 5,000 pounds for the V6 engine and 2,000 pounds for the four-cylinder engine.

For more detailed information on specific model years, check out the comprehensive breakdown on Towing Capacity.

Factors Affecting Towing Capacity

Several factors influence the towing capacity of the Atlas:

Engine Type: As mentioned, the engine plays a significant role. The V6 engine offers more power and, therefore, a higher towing capacity.
Drivetrain: All-wheel-drive (AWD) models generally offer better towing capabilities than front-wheel-drive (FWD) models due to improved traction and stability.
Towing Package: Many Atlas models come with an optional towing package that includes a trailer hitch and enhanced cooling systems, which are necessary for achieving the maximum towing capacity.
Weight of Passengers and Cargo: The total weight of passengers and cargo in the vehicle should be considered, as it can reduce the available towing capacity.

Tips for Safe Towing with the Atlas

Know Your Limits: Always ensure that the weight of the trailer and its contents do not exceed the towing capacity of your Atlas model.
Proper Equipment: Use the appropriate hitch, towing package, and trailer brakes to ensure safety and compliance with legal requirements.
Drive Carefully: Towing adds significant weight to your vehicle, which affects handling, braking, and acceleration. Drive more cautiously, especially when making turns or stopping.

External Resources

For more in-depth details about towing regulations and best practices, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website. Their guidelines can help ensure you’re towing safely and within legal limits.

The Atlas offers substantial towing capacity, particularly with its V6 engine option. Whether you’re planning a family camping trip or need to haul a trailer, understanding the towing capacity of your Atlas is crucial for safe and efficient towing. Always refer to your vehicle’s manual and consult with professionals if you’re unsure about your towing setup.

For more detailed information on the Atlas and other vehicles, be sure to visit Towing Capacity.