How much weight can a Subaru take?
Subaru vehicles vary a lot by model and configuration, but most recent Subarus can carry roughly 1,000 to 1,300 pounds of payload inside the cabin and cargo area, while towing capabilities range from about 1,500 to 5,000 pounds depending on the model. Always check the exact figures on the door jamb sticker or in the owner's manual for your specific build.
In this article, we explain the difference between payload and towing capacity, outline typical ranges for popular Subaru models, and offer practical steps to calculate the weight your vehicle can safely carry or tow. The numbers here reflect common configurations in recent years, but exact ratings depend on engine choice, drivetrain, trim, and optional equipment.
Payload versus towing: what the numbers mean
Payload is the total weight you can safely carry inside the vehicle, including passengers, cargo, and any accessories mounted inside. Towing capacity is the maximum weight the vehicle can pull on a trailer, not including the weight of the trailer itself. These ratings are published as part of the vehicle’s GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) and are influenced by the engine, transmission, drivetrain, and equipment such as hitch, cooling, and braking systems.
To get your specific numbers, look at the door jamb sticker or the window sticker for your model year and trim. If you’re shopping used, verify the GVWR and curb weight from the factory documentation for that exact build. The following list provides representative figures for popular Subaru models in recent years.
Below is a roundup of typical payload and towing figures by model. The values are approximate ranges for commonly equipped versions and may vary by year, engine, and trim level.
- Subaru Outback — Payload approximately 1,000–1,300 lbs; Towing up to about 3,500 lbs with proper equipment.
- Subaru Forester — Payload roughly 1,000–1,300 lbs; Towing up to about 2,700 lbs with the right setup.
- Subaru Crosstrek — Payload around 1,000–1,200 lbs; Towing up to about 1,500 lbs.
- Subaru Ascent — Payload roughly 1,400–1,500 lbs; Towing up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped.
- Subaru Legacy — Payload about 1,000–1,200 lbs; Towing up to around 2,000 lbs.
- Subaru Impreza — Payload near 1,000–1,150 lbs; Towing up to about 2,000 lbs depending on configuration.
- Subaru WRX — Payload around 1,000–1,150 lbs; Towing typically up to 1,000–2,000 lbs depending on year and spec.
Note: Not every trim or engine option will hit the upper end of these ranges. For example, a heavier edition with a bigger engine or additional equipment can reduce payload slightly and may alter towing capacity. Always verify the exact numbers for your specific vehicle.
How to calculate payload for your Subaru
Knowing how to calculate payload helps you stay within safe limits when loading people and cargo. Use these steps to estimate your vehicle’s payload:
- Find the GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) and curb weight on the door jamb sticker or the vehicle’s specification sheet.
- Subtract the curb weight from the GVWR to get the maximum payload (this is the total weight you can carry inside the vehicle).
- Account for occupants: estimate the average weight of each passenger (carried in the vehicle) and add luggage or cargo weight you plan to carry.
- Ensure that the total inside-the-vehicle weight does not exceed the calculated payload. If you plan to tow, ensure the tongue weight (the weight of the trailer on the hitch) is also within the vehicle’s limits and that the combined weight remains within the GVWR.
In practice, many families find a comfortable rule of thumb is to reserve a safety margin of about 10–15% below the published maximum payload to accommodate dynamic driving conditions and uneven loading.
Safety and practical loading tips
Loading and distribution
Distribute weight evenly, placing heavier items low and toward the center of the vehicle to reduce rollover risk and improve handling. Keep passengers within the seating capacity and avoid exceeding the stated payload for any given configuration.
Towing essentials
When towing, ensure you have the correct hitch, brake controller (where required), and braking capacity. Heavier trailers require careful weight distribution, proper tongue weight (usually about 10–15% of the trailer’s gross weight), and attention to braking and cooling specifications. If you’re new to towing with a Subaru, consider professional guidance or a tow package designed for your model.
Summary
Subarus offer a practical balance of cargo space and towing capability across their lineup. Typical payload ranges from about 1,000 to 1,300 pounds for most models, with the larger Ascent capable of carrying more, and towing capacities spanning roughly 1,500 to 5,000 pounds depending on model and equipment. Always confirm the exact ratings for your year, trim, and equipment, and follow safe loading practices to maximize both performance and safety.
By understanding payload and towing ratings—and how to calculate them for your specific build—you can plan trips, move gear, and travel with confidence while staying within the vehicle’s safe limits.
For the most accurate numbers, consult your owner’s manual or the official Subaru specs for your exact year and trim. The figures can vary slightly from one configuration to another, so verifying the sticker on your vehicle is the best practice.
