Can the Subaru Ascent really tow 5000 lbs?
The Subaru Ascent can tow up to 5,000 pounds when it is properly equipped with the factory Tow Package; without that equipment, the towing limit is significantly lower. This article explains how the rating is determined, what equipment matters, and how to tow safely at or near that limit.
Understanding the official rating and what it takes to reach it
The maximum 5,000-pound towing figure is published by Subaru as attainable only with the right factory components and appropriate loading. The rating reflects the vehicle’s engine, cooling, transmission, and braking capabilities when the Tow Package and proper hitch setup are installed.
What you need to reach the 5,000-pound rating includes:
- Tow Package: Typically adds heavy-duty cooling (radiator and engine oil cooler), transmission cooling improvements, plus a factory hitch and wiring harness.
- Hitch and wiring: A properly installed 2-inch hitch receiver and trailer wiring harness are required to enable the 5,000-pound capability.
- GCWR and payload considerations: The Gross Combined Weight Rating (the total allowable weight of the vehicle plus the trailer) must not be exceeded, and payload limits must be respected when towing.
- Tongue weight target: Safe tongue weight is generally about 10–12% of the trailer’s total weight; for a 5,000-pound trailer, this equates to roughly 500–600 pounds of downward force on the hitch.
Concluding, reaching the 5,000-pound limit is possible, but it requires the Tow Package, proper hitch/wiring, and careful loading within the vehicle’s ratings.
Powertrain and performance: what makes it capable
The Ascent uses a 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engine producing about 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission and all-wheel drive. While the engine provides the torque needed for substantial towing, the Tow Package ensures sufficient cooling and transmission protection to sustain higher-load towing conditions.
Practical guidelines for towing near the limit
If you intend to tow a 5,000-pound trailer, these practical guidelines help ensure a safer, more stable pull.
- Choose a Class III/IV hitch rated for 5,000 pounds, with a compatible weight rating for both tongue weight and trailer mass.
- Install trailer brakes if required by law or recommended for heavy trailers; many regions require brakes on trailers above a certain weight.
- Verify tire load ratings and correct inflation on both vehicle and trailer tires to prevent overheating or failure.
- Consider using a weight-distributing hitch if tongue weight is high or sway is a concern to improve stability and steering feel.
- Plan your trip with gradual climbs and descents in mind; use engine braking on downgrades and avoid sustained high-speed towing on hot days to protect cooling systems.
In practice, towing 5,000 pounds with an Ascent is feasible for many owners, but the success hinges on proper equipment, careful loading, and adherence to Subaru’s and local regulations.
Other considerations and alternatives
If you don’t intend to tow near the maximum rating, the Ascent remains capable for lighter trailers and cargo. Always verify your exact vehicle configuration and towing ratings in the owner’s manual or with a Subaru dealer, since trims and packages can affect the allowable towing capacity.
Summary
The Subaru Ascent can tow up to 5,000 pounds when equipped with the Tow Package and used within its ratings. Achieving this limit requires the proper hitch, wiring, cooling upgrades, and careful loading to maintain the vehicle’s GCWR and safe tongue weight. For many families and campers, this capability offers a robust mid-size option for durable, higher-load towing—so long as readiness and safety guidelines are followed.
