Are Subaru Outbacks good for towing?
The Subaru Outback is a popular crossover SUV known for its versatility, off-road capabilities, and reliable performance. When it comes to towing, the Outback can be a capable option, but its towing capacity is more limited compared to larger SUVs or trucks. In this article, we'll explore the Outback's towing capabilities and provide guidance on whether it's a good choice for your towing needs.
Towing Capacity of the Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback's towing capacity varies depending on the model year and engine configuration. The maximum towing capacity for the Outback is typically around 2,700 to 3,500 pounds. This means the Outback can handle the towing of small to medium-sized trailers, such as pop-up campers, small boat trailers, or lightweight utility trailers.
It's important to note that the actual towing capacity may be lower depending on factors like the vehicle's weight, engine power, and the weight of the trailer and its contents. Always refer to the owner's manual or consult with a Subaru dealer to determine the specific towing capacity for your Outback model.
Factors to Consider When Towing with a Subaru Outback
When using the Subaru Outback for towing, there are several factors to keep in mind:
- Payload Capacity: The Outback has a limited payload capacity, which includes the weight of passengers, cargo, and the trailer. Exceeding the payload capacity can negatively impact the vehicle's handling and braking performance.
- Trailer Brakes: Trailers over a certain weight (usually around 1,000 pounds) may require their own braking system to ensure safe and controlled stops. Make sure your trailer is equipped with the necessary brakes.li>
- Driving Dynamics: Towing a trailer can significantly affect the Outback's handling, acceleration, and braking. Adjust your driving style accordingly and allow for longer stopping distances.
It's essential to carefully plan your towing setup, including the trailer weight, tongue weight, and overall load, to ensure the Outback can handle the task safely and effectively.
Alternatives to Consider
If your towing needs exceed the Outback's capabilities, you may want to consider other Subaru models or alternative vehicles better suited for heavier towing, such as larger SUVs or pickup trucks. These vehicles typically offer higher towing capacities and are designed to handle more demanding towing tasks.
Ultimately, the Subaru Outback can be a capable towing vehicle for light to moderate loads, but it's important to understand its limitations and ensure you stay within the recommended towing capacity and payload limits. By doing so, you can enjoy the Outback's versatility while towing safely and responsibly.
What is the best Subaru for pulling a trailer?
Subarus generally are not ideal for towing a lot. The best Subaru to buy for towing would be the Ascent, with the towing package, but even that won't let you tow as much as your 4Runner or a truck.
What is the best engine for towing a Subaru?
The 2.5L engine has enough power to help you tow up to 2,700 pounds. You can maximize towing capacity by climbing the trim ladder and upgrading to the turbocharged 2.4L engine, which offers an impressive 3,500-pound towing capacity.
Is a Subaru Outback good for towing?
The Subaru Outback can tow up to 3,500 pounds, an excellent number for a wagon. Many wagons and compact crossovers of a similar size from other automakers can tow around 1,500 pounds.
Can you pull an RV with a Subaru Outback?
Did you know that Subaru Outbacks can tow RVs? Subaru built the Outback to be a rugged backcountry vehicle. The Outback has a towing capacity of 2,700 pounds. While the Outback can't tow a full-sized RV, it can still tow many small RVs.
Can a Subaru Outback really tow 2700 lbs?
Can you tow a trailer with a Subaru Outback? Yes, depending on the trailer weight. With a 2025 Subaru Outback, the standard max towing capacity is 2,700 pounds,1 enough for some small vehicle trailers.
Is Subaru Forester or Outback better for towing?
The 2025 Subaru Forester excels in offering a compact, efficient, and affordable SUV option for daily driving and family use, while the 2025 Subaru Outback provides more power and off-road capability, perfect for adventure seekers who need towing capacity and extra performance.
Why get a Forester instead of an Outback?
The wagon-adjacent Outback is longer and has a lower roofline, while the Forester provides about an inch more front headroom as a taller compact SUV. Front and rear legroom is nearly identical in both models. Around back, the Outback offers 33 cubic feet of cargo volume compared with the Forester's 30 cubic feet.
Why does Outback have higher towing capacity than Forester?
The Forester is a compact SUV with a focus on practicality and comfort, while the Outback, with its larger size and optional turbocharged engine, offers more power and towing capacity, catering to drivers seeking more versatility and off-road capabilities.
Which Subaru Outback has highest towing capacity?
Subaru Outback Towing Capacity
| Trim | Engine | 2021 Towing capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Premium | 2.5L H4 Engine | 2,700 lbs |
| Limited | 2.5L H4 Engine | 2,700 lbs |
| Touring | 2.5L H4 Engine | 2,700 lbs |
| Onyx Edition XT | 2.4L Turbocharged H4 Engine | 3,500 lbs |
Which Subaru has the strongest engine?
Easily the most powerful and most expensive Subaru ever made, the 2019 Subaru WRX STI S209 is also rare with only 209 examples, all sold in the USA. Its EJ25 2.5-liter Turbo SUBARU BOXER engine erupts with 341 horsepower at 6,400 RPM and 330 lb. -ft.
