How Much Can a Subaru Forester Tow?

Knowing how much a Subaru Forester can tow matters when you’re planning weekend adventures or need to haul equipment. The Forester has different towing limits depending on the year and trim level you choose, with regular models handling solid loads and the Wilderness version offering a significantly higher capacity. In this guide, we’ll cover the towing specs, safety features, and what you can pull so you can decide if this SUV meets your needs.

Subaru Forester Towing Capacity

Silver Subaru Vehicle on Off Road by Connor McManus is licensed with Pexels License

Current  Subaru Forester models from 2023 through 2025 can tow up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped, while the Wilderness trim doubles that to 3,000 pounds thanks to upgraded cooling, revised gearing, and stronger towing components. That’s a significant jump, making it capable of handling larger trailers and heavier gear. The 2025 Wilderness starts at $36,285 and provides 9.2 inches of ground clearance.

Looking back, the 2014-2022 standard models maintained the reliable 1,500-pound limit. The Wilderness, introduced in 2022, featured a Class II hitch setup that enabled the 3,000-pound rating. Models from 2019 to 2021 included a 1,500-pound limit across all trims.

Essential Towing Features and Technology in the 2025 Forester

Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel-drive system is a key reason the Forester tows so well. It constantly monitors acceleration, braking, and steering, then automatically sends power where it’s needed most. Every Forester comes with this system, and no upgrades are required. The 2.5-liter BOXER engine generates 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. Its horizontally opposed design keeps the center of gravity low for better balance when towing.

Your transmission choices depend on which trim you pick. The Base and Premium trims feature a Lineartronic CVT with a low-shift mode, while the Sport, Limited, and Touring trims add an eight-speed manual mode for enhanced driving control. The gear ratios enable smooth climbing, making it easier to tow uphill. X-MODE, with settings for snow, dirt, deep snow, and mud, provides excellent grip for towing. Vehicle Dynamics Control and trailer stability assist come standard on all trims, while Hill Descent Control is included on the Premium and higher trims to manage speed on steep downhill roads.

What Can You Tow With a Subaru Forester?

With the standard 1,500-pound towing limit, a Subaru Forester can tow canoe or kayak trailers that weigh 100-400 pounds empty, have a 200-800 pound gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), and put 30-120 pounds on the tongue. Motorcycle trailers also pair well with the Forester, typically weighing 100-600 pounds empty, with a GVWR of 800-3,000 pounds and a tongue weight of 120-450 pounds. Small utility trailers, weighing 400-1,200 pounds empty, can also be used, but it’s essential to stay within the Forester’s towing capacity when loading cargo.

Please upgrade to the Wilderness, featuring a 3,000-pound capacity, to unlock additional options. Teardrop campers weighing 1,000-1,800 pounds become realistic options, along with small travel trailers, such as the Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro and Jayco Hummingbird, which are both under 2,500 pounds. Small fishing boats, lightly loaded utility trailers, and lightweight pop-up campers all fit comfortably within this range, making the Wilderness an ideal choice for families who enjoy the outdoors.

Safe Towing Practices

Bright loading follows what’s known as the 60/40 rule. Place about 60% of your cargo weight in the front half of the trailer, closer to the hitch. As tongue weight needs careful attention, aim for 10%-15% of your loaded trailer weight. Start with your heaviest items near the front axles, then balance the weight evenly to avoid overloading one wheel. Secure everything with strong straps to stop the load from shifting.

Before heading out, check your trailer tires for proper pressure and tread wear, ensure the lug nuts are tight, and replace any tires that are 6 years old or more, regardless of appearance. Your hitch ball must match the trailer coupler exactly, and the safety chains must cross under the tongue before connecting them, so they can catch the trailer if it disconnects. When driving, take wider turns since the trailer follows a tighter path. Leave extra space for braking and acceleration, stay in the right lane, and downshift on hills rather than riding the brakes.

Subaru Forester vs. Competitors: Towing Capacity Comparison

Among compact SUVs, the Honda CR-V can tow up to 1,500-1,850 pounds, while both the Toyota RAV4 and Nissan Rogue top out at 1,500 pounds. The Ford Escape leads with a 3,500-pound capacity, but the Forester Wilderness at 3,000 pounds ranks a close second. Most competitors give you front-wheel drive standard and charge extra for all-wheel drive, but every Forester comes with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.

Space-wise, the Forester stands out with 110.8 cubic feet of passenger room and generous legroom, great for families and weekend trips. Safety ratings also set it apart. The 2025 Forester earned the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety TOP SAFETY PICK + award, while the Rogue and RAV4 did not. With its standard all-wheel drive, competitive towing capacity, roomy interior, and top safety scores, the Forester really stands out for drivers who want one SUV that handles both everyday life and recreation.

Experience Superior Towing Capability With Huffines Subaru Corinth

The Subaru Forester delivers solid towing capability, whether you choose a standard trim or upgrade to the Wilderness. From hauling kayaks and motorcycles to pulling a small camper, the Forester is designed to handle what North Texas drivers need.

Want to see how the Forester handles towing? Visit Huffines Subaru Corinth to explore our current inventory and take a test drive. Our team can help you find the Forester trim that best fits your needs. Contact us today to discover how the Forester’s robust towing capability can enhance your active lifestyle in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.