What Subaru models can tow?
Subaru vehicles are known for their reliability, safety, and versatility, making them a popular choice for drivers who need a car that can handle a variety of tasks. One of the key features that many Subaru models offer is towing capability. Whether you're planning a weekend camping trip or need to tow a small trailer, Subaru has several models that can get the job done. In this article, we'll explore which Subaru models are equipped for towing and what you need to know before hitching up a trailer.
Subaru Models with Towing Capabilities
Subaru offers a range of models with varying towing capacities. Here are the most popular Subaru models that can tow:
- Subaru Outback: The Subaru Outback is a versatile SUV that offers a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds when equipped with the turbocharged engine. This makes it ideal for towing small boats, trailers, or campers.
- Subaru Forester: The Forester is another popular choice, with a towing capacity of up to 1,500 pounds. While it’s not designed for heavy-duty towing, it’s perfect for smaller loads like bike racks or lightweight trailers.
- Subaru Ascent: The Subaru Ascent is the largest SUV in Subaru's lineup and boasts an impressive towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds. This makes it a great option for families who need to tow larger trailers or boats.
- Subaru Crosstrek: The Crosstrek offers a towing capacity of up to 1,500 pounds, making it a good choice for light towing needs such as small utility trailers or kayaks.
Each of these models comes with Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, which provides excellent stability and control when towing. However, it's important to check your specific vehicle's owner's manual for exact towing specifications and guidelines.
Factors to Consider When Towing with a Subaru
Before you start towing with your Subaru, there are a few important factors to keep in mind:
- Weight Limits: Always ensure that the weight of your trailer and its contents does not exceed the towing capacity of your Subaru model.
- Trailer Hitch: Make sure your vehicle is equipped with the appropriate trailer hitch and towing accessories. Subaru offers factory-installed hitches for many of its models.
- Braking System: For heavier loads, consider using a trailer with its own braking system to ensure safe stopping distances.
- Driving Conditions: Be mindful of road conditions, weather, and terrain when towing. Subaru's AWD system is a great asset, but extra caution is always necessary.
- Maintenance: Regularly inspect your vehicle's brakes, tires, and suspension to ensure they are in good condition for towing.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable towing experience with your Subaru.
Conclusion
Subaru offers a variety of models that are capable of towing, from the compact Crosstrek to the robust Ascent. Whether you need to tow a small trailer or a larger load, there's likely a Subaru model that fits your needs. Always remember to follow the manufacturer's guidelines and take the necessary precautions to ensure safety while towing. If you have any questions about your Subaru's towing capabilities or need assistance with installing a trailer hitch, feel free to contact us at Kevin's Autos for expert advice and service!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Subaru has a tow package?
The Subaru Forester previously had a modest towing capacity compared to other Subaru models, with a 1,500-pound maximum towing capacity. When the Subaru Forester Wilderness was added to the lineup in 2022, the maximum towing capacity increased to 3,000 pounds.
Can Outback or Forester tow more?
SUBARU BOXER® Engine & Towing Capacity
The Outback comes with the same standard engine but also offers an optional 260-horsepower turbocharged engine upgrade. The stronger engine and wheelbase on the Outback allow it to tow up to 3,500 pounds, while the Forester tops out at 3,000 pounds of towing capacity.
What 2024 Subaru can tow 3500 lbs?
2024 Crosstrek
It may be the most compact but the 2024 Crosstrek has a few surprises under the hood with a 3,500-lb. maximum towing capacity1 on the Wilderness trim.
Are there any subarus that can tow 5000 lbs?
The 2021 Subaru Ascent SUV has a max towing capacity of 5000 lbs on selected trim levels when equipped with the available Class III trailer hitch.
Is Subaru Forester or Outback better for towing?
SUBARU BOXER® Engine & Towing Capacity
Both the Outback and Forester are powered by the reliable SUBARU BOXER® engines. The Outback also offers a 260-hp turbocharged engine option, giving it the ability to tow up to 3,500 lbs. The Forester can tow 1,500-3,000 lbs. Engine availability varies by trim level.
Which subarus have towing capacity?
Outback Touring provides for towing up to 2,700-lbs. Outback Onyx Edition XT earns favor with a capacity for 3,500-lbs. pulled. Outback Wilderness, Limited XT and Touring XT are capable of 3,500-lbs.
Are CVT transmissions ok for towing?
To tow a vehicle equipped with a Continuously Variable Transmission, an appropriate vehicle dolly MUST be placed under the towed vehicle's drive wheels. Never tow a front-wheel drive vehicle with a CVT with the front wheels on the ground or four wheels on the ground.
Can a Subaru Outback really tow 2700 lbs?
The average tow capacity for all years of Subaru Outback ranges from 1,000 to 3,500 pounds. When you choose a newer model, the standard towing capacity is 2,700 pounds.
Why get a Forester instead of an Outback?
The Outback is bigger on the outside, with more length, width, and a longer wheelbase than the Forester. This makes it around 9.2 inches longer and 2.7 inches wider than the Forester. However, the Forester offers more space for passengers, with 111.6 cubic feet compared to the Outback's 109.0 cubic feet.
Do all subarus have a tow hitch?
The answer's that while the new Subaru Outback does not come standard with a trailer hitch, the option to add and install one is always present and the following accessories are also available for purchase from Subaru: 2-Inch Thule Hitch Adapter. Hitch Mounted Thule 4 Bike Carrier. Thule Hitch Platform 2 Bike Carrier.
