Do any subarus come with a tow hitch?
Yes. Subaru offers factory towing options on several models, allowing you to tow trailers when properly equipped. Availability and towing capacity depend on the model, engine, and whether you add Subaru’s Tow Package. Always verify the exact specs with a dealer for a given model year.
Tow-ready Subaru models
The following Subaru models can be ordered with a factory tow hitch and wiring as part of a Tow Package. Capacities vary by engine and configuration.
- Ascent — up to 5,000 lbs when equipped with the Tow Package (2.4L turbo engine).
- Outback — up to 2,700 lbs with the 2.5L engine; up to 3,500 lbs with the 2.4L turbo engine; Tow Package required.
- Forester — up to 2,700 lbs with the Tow Package.
- Crosstrek — up to 1,500 lbs with the Tow Package.
- Legacy — up to 2,000 lbs with the Tow Package.
Not every Subaru model comes with a hitch by default, and the Tow Package tends to be optional or offered on specific trims. If you’re planning to tow, confirm the exact capacity and equipment for your year and trim with a dealer.
What to know when buying or verifying towing capability
Before committing to a tow setup, consider how this affects performance, maintenance, and insurance. The following guidelines help ensure you’re equipped for towing with a Subaru.
- Capacity varies by model and engine, so always check the specific numbers for your exact year/trim.
- The hitch receiver and wiring harness are typically part of the Tow Package, not standard on all trims.
- Towing requires following Subaru’s guidelines for tongue weight, trailer brakes, and payload calculations.
In practice, models like the Ascent, Outback, Forester, Crosstrek, and Legacy can be configured for towing with the appropriate package, while some performance or compact models may not offer factory towing. Always verify with a dealer to confirm current options and capacities for your planned use.
Summary
Subaru does offer factory towing capabilities on several models through a Tow Package, with varying towing capacities. If you need to tow, you’ll typically select a model with the Tow Package (e.g., Ascent up to 5,000 lbs, Outback up to 3,500 lbs with turbo, Forester up to 2,700 lbs, Crosstrek up to 1,500 lbs, Legacy up to 2,000 lbs). Always confirm the exact specs for the model year and trim you’re considering, and ensure proper installation and towing practices.
Do all Subaru Ascents come with a hitch?
No, not all Subaru Ascents come with a hitch; it is an optional accessory that must be either factory-ordered or installed later by the dealership or yourself. The only exception is the 2025 Ascent Touring, which comes standard with a Class III trailer hitch.
- Standard vs. optional: The tow hitch is not a standard feature on all trims, except for the 2025 Ascent Touring. For other models, it is an added option that will be listed on the vehicle's window sticker (Monroney label) if it was installed at the factory.
- Factory vs. aftermarket: You can have the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) hitch installed by the dealership when purchasing, or you can purchase it separately and install it yourself, or have a third-party shop install it.
- Towing capacity: The ability to tow 5,000 pounds depends on the trim level and proper factory-installed equipment, which includes the hitch and proper wiring. The Base trim is limited to 2,000 pounds.
Which Subaru has a tow package?
Many Subaru models can be equipped with a towing package, with the Ascent offering the highest capacity (up to 5,000 lbs), followed by the Outback (2,700–3,500 lbs) and Forester/Crosstrek (1,500 lbs). The specific capacity varies by model and trim, with some high-performance or adventure-oriented trims like the Outback Wilderness or Forester Wilderness having higher capacities than base models. Towing packages typically include a hitch receiver and wiring harness, and some models may also include a transmission cooler.
Subaru models with towing packages
| Model | Max Towing Capacity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ascent | 5,000 lbs | Available with a towing package and can tow larger campers, boats, or ATVs. |
| Outback | 2,700–3,500 lbs | Capacity varies by engine and trim; 3,500 lbs is available on turbo/Wilderness models. |
| Forester | 1,500–3,000 lbs | Base models typically have 1,500 lbs; the Wilderness trim can tow up to 3,000 lbs. |
| Crosstrek | 1,500 lbs (base) | The Wilderness trim can tow up to 3,500 lbs. |
| Solterra | 2,000–4,000 lbs | The electric SUV's capacity can vary by model year. |
| WRX | Not typically rated for towing | The WRX is not designed for towing and generally lacks a tow hitch option. |
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What to know before towing
- Check capacity: Always check your specific model's and trim's manual to confirm the exact towing capacity.
- Towing package: A towing package is often required for maximum capacity and includes a hitch receiver and wiring harness.
- Trailer Stability Assist: Most Subaru SUVs have Trailer Stability Assist to provide a more stable and secure towing experience.
Which cars come with a tow hitch?
Built to Tow: Top Vehicles with Factory-Installed Trailer Hitches
- Ford Expedition.
- Toyota Sequoia.
- Nissan Titan.
- Jeep Wagoneer.
Do all Subarus have a trailer hitch?
No Ascent (or Subaru) of any trim level has the hitch receiver as standard.
