Max Trailering Package Blues

So, I am starting the process to trade my wife's 2023 Denali XL for a 2027 one. Wanted a stock Denali XL with the Max Trailer Package option which cost $465 on the 2023 MY.
Now it seems like you can only get it with the ATP option with Super Cruise (never use it) for 5k. Any workarounds? Sigh.
What practical differences do you think I would feel, while towing a 23 ft 5k pound travel trailer, between having the MTP or not on 500m roundtrips in the NW?
Cheers.

2027 Configurator not on Web Site yet, but Looks like you can add it for 2026 but requires Premium Trailering Package + Sun Power & Step Package + Premium Capability Package with Active Response 4WD. This is only way to get w/ out SuperCruise that i can see

I assume you need the trailer brake controller for your trailer? My boat has surge brakes so I can't really take advantage of that feature. Have not towed with it yet.

I have a 2021 Yukon Denali 6.2L w/7,500 towing and 750lb tonque specs + overall GVWR with plenty of room for people and stuff above the 750lb tonque specs. It didn't come with 'max trailering' but has "Tow Mode" and "Trailering App" (to check lights). I added the Curtis controller for Yukons (fit right in / works fine) and pull a 5500lb 7 x 14 cargo trailer -> camper with 600lb tonque with no trouble. I don't have air, only magnetic ride but the Blue Ox weight distribution limits rear sink to an inch (on 600lb tonque) - which is OK / rig looks 'nearly level' instead of slightly raised in rear as you see in this pic...


Part of our test drive (no brake controller yet) was to pull this trailer up a nearby 10mile mountain pass at 107F ambient temp in Aug to verify no overheating - and trans only reached 200F and Engine/radiator temp didn't move from normal - no trouble at all with heat. We've since towed 21K miles over last 3 years - many mountains, up to 70mph on Interstates - no trouble.

Not sure 'max trailering' is needed for the specs you list - suggest you give it a test drive (likely don't need a brake controller for a short test) and verify you're situation.

MajorFatal said:

So, I am starting the process to trade my wife's 2023 Denali XL for a 2027 one. Wanted a stock Denali XL with the Max Trailer Package option which cost $465 on the 2023 MY.
Now it seems like you can only get it with the ATP option with Super Cruise (never use it) for 5k. Any workarounds? Sigh.
What practical differences do you think I would feel, while towing a 23 ft 5k pound travel trailer, between having the MTP or not on 500m roundtrips in the NW?
Cheers.

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Depends on how far you are towing and the grade of hills. Shorter trips and flat you’ll be fine.

Max trailer has extra cooling, 2 speed transfer case, brake controller, as well as the other fancy gizmos.

"I assume you need the trailer brake controller for your trailer?"
Yep. Required.
It seems you can buy an after-market one through GMC/Accessories for $400 which can likely solve that key issue.
But still, only offering the MTP through a largely unrelated upgrade package at $5k+ is bad mojo!

WOW. I bought a base model 23 (LS). Only options on it was max trailer package and 3.0 Diesel. It would drive me away if I had to buy a higher priced model. Besides the trailering stuff, I need the two speed transfer case, also.

Padraig

Padraig said:

WOW. I bought a base model 23 (LS). Only options on it was max trailer package and 3.9 Diesel. It would drive me away if I had to buy a higher priced model. Besides the trailering stuff, I need the two speed transfer case, also.

Padraig

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Pretty standard industry practice these days, unfortunately. They are copying the cable TV companies.

Padraig said:

WOW. I bought a base model 23 (LS). Only options on it was max trailer package and 3.9 Diesel. It would drive me away if I had to buy a higher priced model. Besides the trailering stuff, I need the two speed transfer case, also.

Padraig

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Did you pay extra for the additional 0.9 displacement?

MajorFatal said:

"I assume you need the trailer brake controller for your trailer?"
Yep. Required.
It seems you can buy an after-market one through GMC/Accessories for $400 which can likely solve that key issue.
But still, only offering the MTP through a largely unrelated upgrade package at $5k+ is bad mojo!

Click to expand...

Could look at the Chevys, might be able to get it in there a different way.

Fless said:

Did you pay extra for the additional 0.9 displacement?

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Oops...I have fat fingers. Fixed it, thanks.

Padraig