Can a Subaru Ascent really tow 5000 lbs?
Yes — with the factory towing package and a properly braked trailer, the Subaru Ascent is rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds. This maximum applies when the vehicle is properly equipped and used within Subaru’s guidelines, and real-world towing depends on payload, terrain, and conditions.
Understanding Subaru’s official towing rating
The Ascent’s official towing specification lists a 5,000-pound maximum when the vehicle is equipped with the optional towing package and appropriate trailer equipment. This rating assumes a braked trailer and adherence to the vehicle’s payload and tongue-weight limits. The number is not a blanket figure for every trim or year; equipment and trailer specifications matter.
What counts as properly equipped
To reach the 5,000-pound limit, you typically need the factory towing package and the right hitch/wiring setup. This package often includes hardware such as a heavy-duty radiator and engine oil cooler, a 2-inch hitch receiver, and a trailer wiring harness. Some trims may include these features as standard or offer them as an option. The trailer itself must be braked to qualify for the full rating.
- Factory towing package with hitch, wiring harness, and cooling upgrades
- Braked trailer (required to achieve the 5,000 lb rating)
- Proper hitch equipment and trailer wiring rated for the load
- Trailer tongue weight kept near 10% of the trailer’s gross weight (roughly around 500 lb for a 5,000 lb trailer)
- Payload within the vehicle’s limits to maintain overall safety and performance
In practice, the 5,000-pound rating is achievable on many Ascent models across years when these conditions are met, but always verify your specific year and trim with the owner’s manual or a Subaru dealer.
Practical considerations for towing with the Ascent
Beyond meeting the official rating, towing safely with the Ascent involves attention to load distribution, cooling, braking, and driver technique. A 2.4-liter turbo engine paired with the CVT performs well in towing scenarios, but maximum capacity can impact acceleration, fuel economy, and engine/transmission heat, especially on long grades or hot conditions. Always monitor coolant temperatures, use trailer brakes, and maintain adequate following distances.
- Stay within the vehicle’s payload and tongue-weight limits to avoid overloading the suspension and brakes
- Use a properly rated trailer with functioning brakes and a compatible braking controller if required
- Ensure the hitch and wiring are correctly installed and rated for the load
- Distribute weight in the trailer and on the tongue to maintain stability and handling
- Drive conservatively, anticipate longer stopping distances, and be mindful of cooling during extended towing
Conclusion: With the towing package and a braked trailer, the Ascent can tow up to 5,000 pounds. Real-world results depend on year, trim, payload, and adherence to Subaru’s guidelines.
Real-world experiences and guidance
Automotive reviews and owner reports generally support the 5,000-pound rating when the correct equipment is installed and the trailer is braked. Reviewers note solid acceleration and braking with moderate trailers, while advising caution on heat buildup and drivetrain load on steep grades or in hot weather. Always check the exact specifications for your model year and confirm with a Subaru dealer before towing near the limits.
Final word from testers and owners is that the 5,000-pound capability is real, but it requires proper equipment, careful loading, and prudent driving to stay within safe margins.
Summary
The Subaru Ascent can tow up to 5,000 pounds when it is equipped with the factory towing package and towing a braked trailer, with the load kept within the vehicle’s payload limits. For safe, reliable towing, follow the manual's guidelines, ensure proper load distribution, and consider real-world factors like terrain and climate. Always verify model-year specifics with Subaru documentation or a dealer before attempting to tow at the maximum rating.
Is there a Subaru that can tow 5000 lbs?
The Subaru Ascent is the only Subaru model that can tow up to 5,000 pounds, and this applies to most trim levels, though the specific model year can matter for the base trim. All trims of the 2025 Ascent can tow 5,000 pounds, but for earlier model years (like 2021), the base trim's capacity was 2,000 pounds while other trims could tow 5,000 pounds.
Subaru models with a 5,000 lb towing capacity
- Subaru Ascent: This is the largest Subaru and the only one to offer a 5,000-pound towing capacity on most of its trims.
- 2025 Model: All trims of the 2025 Ascent have a 5,000-pound maximum towing capacity.
- Previous Models (e.g., 2024, 2021): All trims except the base model offer a 5,000-pound capacity, while the base model is typically rated for 2,000 pounds.
Key features that enable towing
- Engine: The Ascent is powered by a turbocharged Subaru BOXER engine that delivers 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque.
- Drivetrain: Standard Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive provides enhanced stability and control for towing.
- Trailer Hitch: An available Class III trailer hitch is needed to achieve the maximum 5,000-pound towing capacity.
Is the Subaru Ascent a good tow vehicle?
The Subaru Ascent towing capacity means this vehicle is good for more than just the grocery run and road trip. How much can a Subaru Ascent tow? You'll be able to tow an impressive 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
What are the weaknesses of the Subaru Ascent?
Common Subaru Ascent cons include poor fuel economy, a CVT (continuously variable transmission) that can feel disconnected and noisy, and brake issues like premature wear and juddering. Other drawbacks cited by owners are limited interior cabin width, inconsistent technology and infotainment, and engine noise, particularly under acceleration. Some owners also report issues with electrical systems, and despite a decent engine, some feel it is underpowered for the vehicle's size, particularly with its CVT.
You can watch this video to learn about the common problems and weaknesses of the Subaru Ascent: 52sNexologyYouTube · Sep 11, 2025
Performance and powertrain
- Poor fuel economy: Some owners report fuel economy that is worse than advertised.
- Underpowered engine: The turbocharged 2.4-liter engine is often considered underpowered for the Ascent's heavy weight.
- Noisy CVT: The CVT can cause a "droning" noise and a disconnected feeling, while competitors use more traditional automatic transmissions.
- Inconsistent throttle: Some drivers find the throttle too touchy at low speeds or sluggish at higher speeds.
Brakes
- Premature wear: Owners report premature wearing of brake pads and rotors.
- Vibration and noise: Complaints include pulsating or vibrating brakes and squeaking noises.
Interior and technology
- Limited interior width: Despite being a large SUV, the cabin is narrower than many competitors, reducing usable space for passengers.
- Frustrating technology: Some owners find the technology and infotainment systems frustrating to use.
- Driver assist system issues: In some conditions, such as heavy rain, the EyeSight driver assist system can shut down.
Other issues
- Engine and transmission problems: In addition to the CVT, other engine and transmission-related issues have been reported by owners.
- Electrical system issues: Reports include problems with interior lights and other electrical components.
- Repairs: Some owners report that repairs for certain issues, like replacing a windshield, can be expensive and trigger other cascading problems.
This video discusses several issues with the Subaru Ascent, including the CVT, brake problems, and electrical system: 1mFuel ForceYouTube · Aug 4, 2025
Can the Subaru Ascent really tow 5000 lbs?
The 2025 Subaru Ascent is engineered to meet the demands of both daily commutes and adventurous excursions. With a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, it stands as the most capable Subaru vehicle to date, allowing you to confidently haul trailers, boats, or recreational equipment.
