Can you pull a trailer with a Subaru Ascent?
Yes. The Subaru Ascent can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped with the factory towing package.
For anyone considering towing with this three-row SUV, this article explains the official limits, what "properly equipped" means, and practical tips to tow safely and effectively.
Capability and equipment requirements
Understanding the official towing limit begins with the vehicle’s equipment. The maximum 5,000-pound rating applies when Subaru’s towing package is installed and the trailer meets regulatory requirements. Specs can vary by model year, so confirm with your owner's manual and dealer for your exact build.
What constitutes "properly equipped" typically includes a factory towing package that adds a 2-inch hitch receiver, a trailer wiring harness, and sometimes brake-controller wiring or an integrated cooling upgrade. The exact contents can differ by year and trim, so check your specific configuration.
- Heavy-duty cooling: upgraded radiator/oil cooler to handle the extra load.
- 2-inch hitch receiver rated for up to 5,000 pounds gross trailer weight (GTW) and matching ball mount.
- Trailer wiring harness with functional lights and signals for trailer safety compliance.
- Pre-wiring or compatibility for an optional trailer brake controller if your trailer requires brakes.
- Documentation and installation performed by a qualified technician if adding the towing package post-purchase.
Conclusion: With the towing package and proper hitch/wiring, the Ascent reaches its 5,000-pound limit. Always verify the exact specification for your vehicle year and trim in the owner's manual or with a Subaru dealer.
Practical towing guidelines
Before listing the specific practices, note that towing affects acceleration, braking distance, and handling, so preparation and careful operation are essential.
Key guidelines to follow when towing with the Ascent:
- Tongue weight should approximate 10-15% of the trailer’s total weight (about 500-750 pounds for a 5,000-pound trailer) to maintain stability.
- Use a weight-distributing hitch for heavier trailers to improve balance and steering control; verify compatibility with your vehicle.
- Trailer brakes: ensure brakes on the trailer are functional as required by law and use a brake controller if your trailer has electric brakes.
- Know your payload capacity: the tow rating is separate from cargo and passengers in the vehicle; don't exceed the combined limits.
- Drive more cautiously: longer stopping distances, gentler acceleration, and wider turning radii can help when towing.
- Inspect tires and pressures on both vehicle and trailer before each trip; ensure spare tires are suitable for towing use.
- Practice reversing with a trailer in a safe area to learn handling and avoid hazards.
Conclusion: Following these guidelines helps ensure a safe and controlled towing experience with the Ascent. If you’re in doubt, seek professional guidance for installation or a test tow with a dealer.
Year, trim, and regulator notes
Because towing capabilities can shift slightly by model year and equipment, check the exact numbers for your Ascent’s year and trim. The 2.4-liter turbo engine option paired with Subaru’s all-wheel drive is what typically enables the 5,000-pound ceiling when the towing package is installed.
Bottom line and takeaway
Summary: The Subaru Ascent is capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds when equipped with Subaru’s factory towing package, including the necessary hitch and wiring. For lighter trailers, it remains capable, but always verify your specific vehicle’s towing specs, ensure trailer brakes where required, and adhere to safe towing practices for a smooth, legal, and safe journey.
