What is the hitch rating of the Forester?
The Forester’s hitch rating is up to 1,500 pounds of towing capacity, with a maximum tongue weight of about 150 pounds for most current models. Always verify the exact figure for your specific year and configuration.
In practical terms, this rating describes how much weight you can safely pull behind the vehicle under typical conditions. The precise number can vary by model year, engine option, and whether the vehicle is equipped with the proper hitch and towing features. For definitive figures, consult your owner's manual or Subaru’s official towing guide for your exact build.
Current Forester hitch rating
Official towing capacity
For the latest Forester models, the official towing capacity is 1,500 pounds gross trailer weight (GTW), with a maximum tongue weight of 150 pounds. A 2-inch hitch receiver is the standard towing setup for these figures.
Conditions to achieve the rating
The 1,500-pound rating assumes proper equipment and standard operating conditions. Factors such as payload, trailer braking requirements, and terrain can influence real-world capability. Always confirm the exact rating for your year and trim in the official documentation.
Factors that influence hitch ratings
Before listing the key factors, note that the stated hitch rating is a ceiling. The following elements determine whether you can tow up to that limit in practice.
- Engine and transmission configuration
- Vehicle payload ( passengers and cargo )
- Hitch class, receiver size, and tongue weight rating
- Trailer weight, including cargo and trailer ballast
- Trailer braking requirements and wiring setup
- Driving conditions (terrain, altitude, weather)
Understanding these factors helps you plan towing safely and ensures you stay within the official rating for your specific Forester year and trim.
How to verify your Forester's rating
Where to look
Check the owner's manual, the vehicle’s window sticker, or Subaru’s official towing guide online for the exact rating by year and trim. Your VIN can also be used at a dealership to fetch the precise figure.
What to do before towing near the limit
Ensure your hitch, wiring, and connectors are rated for the expected weight, verify trailer brakes function correctly, and consider professional guidance on hitch installation and load distribution if you plan to tow near the limit. Adhering to gross vehicle weight and tongue weight recommendations helps prevent unsafe towing conditions.
Summary
In brief, the current mainstream Forester model line supports up to 1,500 pounds of trailer weight with a 150-pound tongue weight. Because ratings can vary by year and configuration, always confirm the exact figure for your vehicle and follow official towing guidelines to tow safely.
