Can a Subaru Impreza pull a trailer?
The Impreza can tow light trailers, typically up to about 1,000 pounds, when properly equipped.
This article explains how much the Impreza can tow, what equipment you need, and practical guidance if you’re considering towing with this compact car.
Tow capacity and what it means
Most Impreza variants carry a towing rating of up to 1,000 pounds when equipped with a factory hitch and trailer wiring. The exact figure can vary by year, drivetrain, and whether the towing package is installed, so always verify your specific build in the owner's manual or with a Subaru dealer.
- Maximum towing capacity: up to 1,000 pounds with a properly installed hitch and trailer wiring; trailers with brakes are typically recommended for heavier loads within this range.
- Towing package or hitch requirements: Not all trims include towing hardware by default; a Subaru-approved hitch and wiring harness may be necessary to reach the rating.
- Braking and trailer type: For trailers near the upper end of the rating, trailer brakes are recommended; unbraked trailers are usually not advised at or near the limit.
- Tongue weight guidance: Expect roughly 10–15% of the trailer’s weight to be carried as tongue weight at the hitch, within the vehicle’s payload limits.
- Operating limits: The rating assumes normal highway use on level terrain; avoid sustained heavy loads, steep grades, or off-road towing unless explicitly approved by Subaru.
In practical terms, the Impreza is suited for light towing—small utility trailers, bike trailers, or lightweight campers—but it isn’t designed for frequent, heavy towing tasks.
What counts as properly equipped
To tow safely, you need the right hardware and setup. Here’s what to look for when preparing to tow with an Impreza.
- A Subaru-approved hitch rated for towing, installed by a qualified technician or dealer.
- A functioning trailer wiring harness with the correct connector (usually 4-pin or 7-pin, as required for the trailer).
- Trailer brakes for heavier loads or where required by the rating; ensure brakes are properly wired and tested.
- Accurate weight calculations: know your vehicle’s GVWR and GCWR and ensure the trailer’s weight plus cargo does not exceed them.
- Load distribution and tire readiness: load the trailer evenly, and confirm trailer and vehicle tires are rated for the combined load with correct pressures.
Having these elements in place helps you stay within the Impreza’s capabilities and reduces safety risks on the road.
Safety and practical considerations
Towing affects braking, handling, and drivetrain cooling. Here are key safety considerations for towing with an Impreza.
- Brake and speed management: Maintain moderate speeds, especially on climbs or downhills, and leave extra stopping distance for the heavier vehicle.
- Gear and balance: Use appropriate gearing when climbing and avoid abrupt maneuvers; ensure the trailer is balanced and within the rating.
- Vehicle maintenance: Keep brakes, tires, and cooling systems in good condition; regularly inspect hitch connections and wiring.
- Legal and insurance: Some jurisdictions require trailer brakes and proper lighting; verify local requirements and ensure insurance coverage for towing.
Sticking to these practices helps maintain control and safety when towing with an Impreza.
Model-year and trim variations
Across modern model years, Subaru has generally kept the Impreza’s towing rating around 1,000 pounds, with variations based on whether the vehicle is equipped with the appropriate towing hardware and the specific drivetrain. Always verify the exact specification for your model year and trim in the official spec sheet or owner’s manual.
Heavier trailers and alternatives
If you regularly need to tow beyond 1,000 pounds, the Impreza is not the ideal choice. Several Subaru models offer higher tow ratings and may be better suited to heavier trailers.
- Subaru Outback: Traditionally offers a higher tow rating, suitable for more substantial trailers when properly equipped.
- Subaru Forester: Generally provides greater towing capability than the Impreza, depending on year and drivetrain.
- Other options: Crosstrek and other SUVs may offer moderate increases in towing capacity, but always confirm the exact spec for your year and trim.
For frequent or heavier towing, consider a vehicle designed with higher gross vehicle/trailer weight ratings and modern towing features.
Summary
In brief, the Subaru Impreza can tow light trailers—typically up to about 1,000 pounds—with the proper hitch, wiring, and trailer setup. For heavier towing, explore Subaru models with higher towing ratings, and always confirm the exact specifications for your year and trim in the owner’s manual or from a dealer. Prioritize safe equipment, proper loading, and adherence to the rated limits to tow responsibly.
