Buick has a new small SUV that's perfect for the outdoorsy type and those who want to get out into nature. The Buick Encore is a bite-size crossover SUV, but can it tow toys such as a trailer or even a camper? We have researched to find out the Encore's towing capacity and what it is capable of pulling.
The Encore can tow up to 1,000 pounds using a class II receiver hitch and two-wheel drive; its maximum tongue weight is 180 pounds. As a result, it is suitable for towing single ATVs, motorcycles, small trailers, and ultra-light campers such as:
- Livin' Lite Quicksilver 6.0 (694 lbs)
- Livin' Lite Quicksilver 8.0 (865 lbs)
- SylvanSport Go (840 lbs)
- Coachmen Clipper 9.0 (741 lbs)
- Coachmen Clipper 10RBS (895 lbs)
Well, there you have it. A small SUV that can bring your camper to the outdoors! However, there are many things to keep in mind when towing a small vehicle like the Buick Encore. Read on to learn more about towing with the Buick Encore. Additionally, we will discuss the ultra-light campers listed above.
Types of Campers That The Encore Can Tow
As for safe practices when towing with your Encore, never exceed a 25% grade while towing. You also need to make sure the hitch and wiring have a proper rating for your chosen load.
Keep in mind that towing trailers could decrease the gas mileage by 20%. Also, reduce speeds when traveling uphill or downhill and use low gear. With that being said, let's take a look at the ultra-light campers that the Buick Encore can tow.
Livin' Lite Quicksilver 6.0 (694 lbs)
When camping, you need a lightweight camper that the Encore can easily haul. The Livin' Lite Quicksilver is a perfect example. It weighs in at 694 pounds and has an optional wet bath as well as a standard refrigerator--two things you should look for when shopping for a smaller camper. Additionally, with its weight, this camper can be towed easily by the Encores towing capacity.
Livin' Lite Quicksilver 8.0 (865 lbs)
The Livin' Lite Quicksilver 8.0 is an upgraded version of the 6.0 model. As a result, it weighs much more than the standard 6.0 model and is slightly more expensive than the 6.0 model. Still, it weighs in at 865 pounds and can be towed by the Encore's towing capacity.
SylvanSport Go (840 lbs)
The SylvanSport Go is a superlight camper on our list. It weighs in at 840 pounds, which is why it was included for the Encore's towing capacity. In addition, it has a rear bedroom with an optional center-line queen bed and a galley kitchen and bathroom, and more.
Coachmen Clipper 9.0 (741 lbs)
The Coachmen Clipper 9.0 is another small ultra-lightweight camper that will fit well in the Encore's tow ratings. Weighing at 741 pounds, it is slightly less than the other models on our list. In addition, it has an optional wet bath and is an excellent choice for those who want to stay out of nature while being able to bring their camper along!
Coachmen Clipper 10RBS (895 lbs)
Carrying 895 pounds, the Coachmen Clipper 10RBS is one of the heavier campers on our list. Still, it can be towed by the Encore's 1,000-pound tow rating. It also has an optional wet bath and galley kitchen.
With that being said, all of these camper models are towable with the Buick Encore. So, if you want to hit the outdoors in style, pull up with your Encore!
Can you put a trailer hitch on a Buick Encore?
Buick does not offer a factory trailer hitch on the Encore, which would make it impossible to tow anything with this vehicle. However, a number of aftermarket manufacturers offer trailer hitches that fit the Encore so that you can add one. It's important to note that not all companies make a hitch for this vehicle because it would cause issues with its design and even safety.
There are a number of good reasons why you may want to consider adding a trailer hitch to your Encore. For example, with the Buick Encore being considered a small SUV, there isn't very much cargo room for all of your camping gear or supplies. Adding a trailer hitch for this vehicle would allow you to haul all of your supplies and equipment easily. In addition, this could save you from having to rent a cargo trailer for your excursions.
In addition, adding a trailer hitch to the Encore would allow you to pull small trailers that can be used for recreational activities such as biking or motorcycle riding. These activities are great social opportunities and create lasting memories. However, you may not have a recreational vehicle that can be used for this purpose. Hence, if you add a trailer hitch to your Encore, you'll be able to convert your primary SUV into an adventure mobile!
What kind of hitch do you need for a Buick Encore?
When it comes to deciding what type of hitch you need for your Buick Encore, it will depend on what you are towing. It is also helpful to consider whether or not you want a basic 2-inch receiver style with ball mount (a good choice if you're not sure where your needs will go) or a full-size 4-inch with eyelet which can handle heavier loads.
Some problems are associated with retrofitting hitches on smaller cars such as the Encore. Adjustments in areas like suspension and exhaust and different length control arms in the front would affect how a vehicle handles. These adjustments could also create problems with the stability of the car.
The cost of adding a trailer hitch to the Buick Encore will vary significantly based on the brand and the materials you buy. For example, some companies sell a hitch kit that will allow you to add one yourself without any special tools or knowledge. These kits include everything you'll need to complete the project and usually only run around $100-$150 in cost. However, if you want a more custom hitch for your Encore, it could be more expensive.
How heavy is the Buick Encore?
The Buick Encore isn't a heavy SUV weighing a total of 3,237 lbs. However, being a light SUV, the Encore gets economic fuel mileage. The Buick Encore's EPA fuel economy rating is 28 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway.
How much weight can the Buick Encore haul?
The max load on an Encore is 1,600 lbs. The payload, or towing capacity, is a measurement of how much weight a vehicle can tow or carry.
The payload for most vehicles is around 1,500 lbs, but it can be more if you purchase an aftermarket hitch and ball mount. As you can see, the Buick Encore is just above the average vehicle payload.
What's The Best Trailer For A Buick Encore?
This type of trailer will allow you to tow heavier loads with your Encore. Some popular hitches for the Buick Encore are Curt Hitches. The main advantage to using a Curt hitch is that they are manufactured by a well-known brand and have an exceptional reputation if something does go wrong. Furthermore, there are many optional parts available from the company, so you can purchase exactly what you need without having to worry about whether or not it will work on your vehicle.
Another good option for a hitch is Draw Tite's universal installation kit which costs under $100 and has several mounting locations available for different vehicles; this makes it an economical choice and versatile one if you change cars in the future.
Final Thoughts On Towing With The Buick Encore
The Buick Encore is an affordable and light SUV that can tow a total of 1,600 lbs. This weight capacity will allow you to carry small campers or ATVs on the back of your vehicle without any problems. It also has enough power for motorcycle trailers, usually around 500-1,000 lbs in size. Of course, if you want to tow heavier loads like motorcycles or even larger boat trailers, this car won't work out for you, but it should handle most situations just fine!
If you like this article on towing with the Buick Encore, then you should also read:
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Ever towed with your Buick Encore? Leave us a comment below!