Subaru Towing Capacity Guide: Which Model Can Tow the Most?
A long-standing manufacturer of all-wheel-drive, sport utility-type vehicles, Subaru has a roster of cars with respectable towing capabilities. These vehicles are ideal for towing a trailer, boat, or camping gear. Understanding each model’s towing capacity is essential when choosing the Subaru with the best towing capacity for your needs. Our Huffines Subaru Corinth team invites you to explore how much each Subaru can tow to help you decide the best option.
Discover the Power: Which Subaru Can Tow the Most?

Subaru Evoltis 2.4T Touring 2023 by RL GNZLZ is licensed with CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED
The lineup contains numerous Subaru models with varying towing capacities. The Subaru Ascent (sold in some markets as the Subaru Evoltis) tops the range with a 5,000-pound towing capacity, which makes it ideal if you’re looking for a vehicle with substantial towing ability. Next in line are the Subaru Outback and Subaru Forester models, capable of medium to light towing.
Unveiling Subaru’s Towing Champions: Model Comparisons
For a more accurate understanding, here’s a comparison of the towing capacities of different Subaru vehicles.
- Subaru Ascent: The Ascent’s high tow capacity of 5,000 pounds allows it to tow a larger trailer or boat. Its turbocharged 2.4-liter SUBARU BOXER engine provides the perfect blend of power and efficiency.
- Subaru Outback: Available in trims with the turbocharged 2.4-liter engine, the Outback’s towing capacity is up to 3,500 pounds. It strikes a good balance between versatility and performance for several towing tasks.
- Subaru Forester: The Forester, in the Wilderness trim, has a towing capacity of up to 3,000 pounds. This small SUV is ideal for light to medium towing jobs.
- Subaru Crosstrek: With the proper setup, the Crosstrek has a tow rating of 3,500 pounds, providing power in a compact form that makes it ideal for small trailers and recreational equipment.
Maximizing Your Subaru’s Towing Potential
To help you get the best out of your Subaru’s towing capability, keep these tips in mind:
- Get the proper trim and engine: The higher trims usually add more powerful engines and improved towing capabilities. For instance, the Ascent and Outback turbocharged engines offer additional towing capabilities.
- Use genuine Subaru towing packages: Adding an approved hitch for your Subaru prevents misalignment and potential hazards in the future. Often, these packages come with a hitch receiver, wiring harness, and various other components.
- Establish regular maintenance: Ensuring your Subaru is in good working order is vital to safe towing. Perform routine checks on the engine, brakes, and suspension, particularly before a trip where you’ll tow.
Towing Essentials: What Every Subaru Owner Should Know
Here’s what you need to know about Subaru towing:
- Understand Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): The GVWR is the maximum amount the vehicle can safely carry, including people, cargo, and the trailer. Surpassing it can lead to safety and vehicle performance problems.
- Ensure even weight distribution: Make sure your trailer distributes the maximum load evenly. Proper weight distribution helps prevent unwanted side-to-side movement and avoids unnecessary wear and tear on the vehicle.
- Apply trailer brakes as necessary: If you’re hauling a heavier load, providing your trailer with a braking system will significantly reduce the load on your Subaru’s braking mechanism and give you better overall stopping power.
FAQs About Subaru Towing Capabilities
Can All Subaru Models Tow?
Most Subaru models can be fitted with towing equipment, but the capacity will depend on the trim, engine, and year. To confirm, refer to your owner’s manual or local Subaru dealership.
Do I Need a Special Towing Package for My Subaru?
The safest and best-performing option is a fully integrated and engineered towing package tailored by the manufacturer for your model. These ensure fitment and function.
How Much Does Towing Affect Fuel Economy?
Towing adds additional weight and aerodynamic drag, which can significantly decrease fuel economy. You can minimize increased fuel consumption by scheduling your trips and maintaining a constant speed.
Are There Any Tow Hitches That Come Preinstalled?
Most Subaru models offer an optional towing package.
Does a Subaru Outback Have the Capacity To Tow a Camper?
The Subaru Outback, particularly the XT and Wilderness trims, can tow campers up to 3,500 pounds, making it an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
Real-World Insights: User Experiences and Expert Reviews
Owners worldwide have praised the towing ability of the entire Subaru lineup. The Ascent has earned a reputation for stable handling while towing midsize trailers. Forester owners appreciate its versatility for light towing duties, such as hauling small boats or utility trailers.
Making the Decision: Tips for Choosing the Right Subaru for Towing Needs
When you’re selecting a Subaru for towing, there are a few factors you should consider. Start by determining your towing needs in terms of the types of loads you’ll be hauling around and your most frequent load weight. These factors will help ensure you select a model with sufficient towing capacity. You can then identify key vehicle characteristics to enhance towing safety and convenience. Look for rearview cameras, trailer stability assist (TSA), and advanced driver-assistance systems to provide additional peace of mind while driving.
It’s also important to consult experts before reaching a firm judgment. At Huffines Subaru Corinth, our expert team will happily assist you in reviewing your towing requirements to ensure your Subaru can handle responsible towing.
Subaru — The Ideal Choice for Towing Enthusiasts
Subaru cars are known for their reliability, safety, and versatility, making them good towing options. With towing capacities ranging from 1,500 to 5,000 pounds, there’s sure to be a Subaru ideal for your towing needs. Subaru’s engineering guarantees stability and control, whether you’re hauling camping gear, recreational equipment, or trailers. Symmetrical all-wheel drive, advanced driver-assistance technologies, and TSA are features that help provide you with stable towing. If you select a Subaru model that suits your needs, you can have a towing experience that matches powerful performance and safety with efficiency and comfort.
Visit Huffines Subaru Corinth Today
If you want to explore Subaru models with top towing capacities, visit us at Huffines Subaru Corinth. Our team is ready to show you our range of vehicles and discuss the best options for your towing needs. Call us at 940-548-4457, visit us at 6930 Interstate Highway 35E in Corinth, Texas, or complete our secure online form to get started.
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