What Subaru can tow 2500 lbs?

Several Subaru models can tow at least 2,500 pounds, depending on engine and equipment. The Outback, Forester, and Ascent are the primary options that meet or exceed that threshold in today’s lineup.

As of 2024–2025, towing capacity in Subarus varies by model, year, and trim. Buyers should verify the exact rating for their specific configuration and ensure they have any required towing equipment, such as a hitch or trailer brakes, installed and activated.

Models that tow 2,500 pounds or more

Below are the Subaru models that typically reach or exceed 2,500 pounds when properly equipped. The numbers reflect common maximum ratings for current or recent generations and may vary by year and trim.

• Outback — typically up to 2,700 pounds with the 2.5L engine; up to 3,500 pounds with the 2.4L turbo option (2020–present, depending on configuration).


• Forester — up to about 2,700 pounds with the 2.5L engine on recent generations.


• Ascent — up to 5,000 pounds, making it capable of towing heavier trailers and larger loads.

In short, if you need to tow at least 2,500 pounds, the Outback, Forester, and Ascent are the primary Subarus that can handle that level of towing capacity with the right equipment and year-specific ratings.

Notes on equipment and year-to-year variations

The ability to tow 2,500 pounds or more depends on having the correct equipment and the appropriate engine. In particular, turbocharged variants (such as the Outback with a 2.4L turbo) offer higher towing limits, while base configurations may sit closer to the lower end of the range. Always consult the owner’s manual and the official Subaru spec sheet for your exact model year and trim, and ensure you have the necessary towing package, hitch, and trailer brakes as required by your load and local regulations.

What to consider before towing

Beyond the engine and trim, several practical factors influence safe towing. These considerations help ensure you stay within rated limits and maintain vehicle control on the road.

• Trailer brakes and brake controller may be required for heavier trailers, depending on weight and jurisdiction.


• A proper towing hitch and any recommended towing accessories should be installed by a qualified technician.


• Weight distribution and tongue weight should be calculated to avoid overloading the rear axle or compromising handling.


• Vehicle load, passengers, and cargo reduce available towing capacity; plan accordingly.

To maximize safety, verify the exact towing rating for your year, trim, and any installed towing equipment, and follow manufacturer guidelines for braking and load distribution.

Summary

The Subaru models best suited to towing 2,500 pounds or more are the Outback, Forester, and Ascent. The Outback offers solid 2,700-pound capability with the base engine and up to 3,500 pounds with a turbocharged option; the Forester reaches about 2,700 pounds in recent generations; and the Ascent comfortably handles up to 5,000 pounds. Always confirm year-specific ratings and ensure you have the appropriate towing package and safety equipment before pulling a trailer.

Can a Subaru Outback really tow 2700 lbs?

As you can see, from the Base to the Touring, you'll be able to hit a towing capability of up to 2,700 pounds. For those needing more hauling ability, the Onyx Edition XT, Wilderness, Limited XT, and Touring XT editions can offer the max Subaru Outback towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.

Which Subaru has 3500 towing capacity?

Still, smaller Subarus hold their own. The Outback XT and Wilderness trims can handle 3,500 lbs, which is plenty for medium-sized campers or boats. The Crosstrek Wilderness is especially impressive, doubling the standard Crosstrek's towing ability to reach 3,500 lbs.

Which Subaru SUV has the highest towing capacity?

Subaru Ascent Premium
The Subaru Ascent Premium, Ascent Onyx Edition, Ascent Limited, and Ascent Touring trims all have the highest Subaru SUV towing capacity at 5,000 pounds.

Which Subaru is best for towing a trailer?

The best Subaru for towing is the Ascent (5,0005 comma 0005,000 lbs capacity), making it ideal for larger trailers and boats. For mid-range needs, the Outback with a turbocharged engine (3,5003 comma 5003,500 lbs) or the Forester Wilderness and Crosstrek Wilderness trims (both 3,0003 comma 0003,000 and 3,5003 comma 5003,500 lbs, respectively) are excellent choices. 
This video explains how to choose the right Subaru for towing: 58sSubaru AustraliaYouTube · Dec 18, 2024
Highest towing capacity 

• Ascent: Offers the highest towing capacity in the Subaru lineup at 5,0005 comma 0005,000 pounds, making it the best choice for towing larger trailers, campers, or boats. 

Mid-range towing capacity 

• Outback:
  • With a 2.4L turbocharged engine, it can tow up to 3,5003 comma 5003,500 pounds. 
  • The standard 2.5L engine has a lower capacity of 2,7002 comma 7002,700 pounds. 
• Forester:
  • The standard trims tow 1,5001 comma 5001,500 pounds. 
  • The Wilderness trim is more capable, with a towing capacity of 3,0003 comma 0003,000 pounds. 
• Crosstrek:
  • Standard models have a towing capacity of 1,5001 comma 5001,500 pounds. 
  • The Wilderness trim significantly increases this to 3,5003 comma 5003,500 pounds. 

This video shows a Subaru Outback Wilderness towing a trailer: 1mRoaming With JoshYouTube · Jan 12, 2022
Things to consider when towing

• Engine: The turbocharged Outback models have a higher towing capacity than those with the standard engine. 
• Trim level: For the Forester and Crosstrek, the Wilderness trims offer substantially higher towing capacities than the standard models. 
• Towing package: Ensure you have the necessary towing equipment, especially a seven-pin connector if you need to control trailer brakes. 
• Safety cushion: It's recommended to stay below the maximum towing capacity to ensure a safer and more comfortable towing experience.