How much weight can my Subaru carry?
Payload capacity for Subarus varies by model and trim, but most current models can safely carry about 1,000 to 1,400 pounds of combined passengers and cargo. To know your exact figure, check the door-jamb placard for the GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) and the curb weight for your specific vehicle, then subtract to calculate payload. If you plan to tow or carry items on the roof, factor those limits as well.
Understanding what “payload” means helps you avoid overloading the vehicle, which can affect handling, braking, and tire wear. Payload is the weight the vehicle can carry inside and on its chassis, excluding but including passengers, cargo, and any permanently installed equipment. When towing or using roof racks, other ratings come into play such as GCWR (gross combined weight rating) and roof load limits.
Understanding payload and related limits
Payload is calculated by subtracting the curb weight from the GVWR. The curb weight is the vehicle’s weight with standard equipment and fluids, while the GVWR is the maximum safe weight the vehicle can carry, including occupants and cargo. When you tow, GCWR becomes a constraint, and the tongue weight of a trailer is part of the load the vehicle must carry. Roof loads are separate from interior payload and have their own limits.
How to determine your exact payload for your Subaru
To compute your vehicle’s precise payload, gather the official numbers for your specific model and trim and work from there. Follow these steps:
- Find the GVWR on the door jamb placard or in the owner's manual spec pages.
- Find the curb weight for your exact model and trim from the same source (door sticker or manufacturer spec sheet).
- Subtract the curb weight from the GVWR to obtain the payload capacity available for passengers and cargo inside the vehicle.
- Subtract the actual weight of passengers and permanent cargo you plan to carry from that payload to determine how much interior cargo remains for your trip.
- If you plan to tow, check GCWR (gross combined weight rating) and ensure your trailer’s weight plus the vehicle’s weight does not exceed it; factor tongue weight as part of the load on the hitch and adjust interior payload accordingly.
In short, your exact payload is GVWR minus curb weight, with adjustments if you tow (GCWR) and if you carry roof-mounted gear, which has its own separate limit. Always verify with official documentation for your year and trim.
Typical payload ranges by Subaru model
Below are broad ranges to help you gauge expectations across common Subaru models. Exact numbers vary by trim and equipment, so consult the placard on your door jamb or your owner's manual for your specific vehicle.
- Outback: roughly 1,000 to 1,300 pounds of payload depending on trim and equipment.
- Forester: roughly 1,000 to 1,150 pounds.
- Crosstrek: roughly 1,000 to 1,200 pounds.
- Impreza (wagon/hatch): roughly 900 to 1,000 pounds.
- Ascent: roughly 1,000 to 1,400 pounds.
- Legacy: roughly 900 to 1,000 pounds.
Note: Roof loading is separate from interior payload. If you carry heavy gear on the roof, use the roof-load limit specified by Subaru for your vehicle (typically around 150 pounds dynamic). Never exceed the stated roof or payload limits, and always distribute weight to preserve handling and braking performance.
Summary
Payload capacity is model-dependent and varies with trim, equipment, and whether you tow. The reliable approach is to use GVWR minus curb weight to determine interior payload, and then adjust for any towing or roof loads. Always check your specific vehicle’s door-jamb sticker and owner’s manual for exact numbers to stay within safe limits.
