What Subarus come with the towing package?
Subaru’s towing package is not universal across the lineup; it’s offered as an option on several models and trims, with availability shifting by year and region. In general, the package adds hitch hardware, wiring, and enhanced cooling components to support trailer towing. The exact towing capacity depends on the engine and configuration. Here is a model-by-model look at where the towing package typically appears in the current lineup.
Models that can be ordered with a towing package
The following sections describe how the towing package is offered on each model. Availability can vary by model year and trim level, so always check the latest Subaru brochure or with a dealer for your specific build.
Subaru Outback
The Outback is one of Subaru’s more common vehicles to be ordered with a towing package. When equipped, it typically includes hitch hardware, a trailer wiring harness, and enhanced cooling components. Turbocharged variants tend to have higher towing performance, while non-turbo configurations use the same package to support lighter towing needs.
- Tow hitch receiver and wiring harness
- Engine oil cooler and, in some trims, upgraded cooling components
- Available on multiple trims, with turbo models optimized for greater towing capability
In short, if you expect to tow regularly, the Outback with the towing package is designed to provide a robust setup while remaining within Subaru’s crossover-SUV design ethos.
Subaru Ascent
- Heavy-duty cooling components (engine oil cooler, upgraded radiator)
- Trailer hitch receiver and wiring harness
- Typically requires the 2.4L turbo engine for maximum towing capability
For buyers prioritizing capacity, the Ascent with the towing package is Subaru’s closest offering to a true mid-size SUV tow-ready configuration.
Subaru Forester
The Forester offers towing package availability on select trims, with the focus on enabling practical light-to-mid-duty towing. The package adds the essential hitch and wiring and may include cooling enhancements on certain trims.
- Trailer hitch and wiring harness
- Engine cooling enhancements on eligible trims
- Availability varies by year and trim level
For lighter to moderate towing tasks, Forester with the towing package provides a capable and cost-efficient option within Subaru’s SUV lineup.
Subaru Crosstrek
The Crosstrek can be equipped with a towing package on specific trims, reflecting its role as a compact SUV that can handle small trailers and bike racks. The package includes the basics for towing and may feature added cooling components on certain configurations.
- Trailer hitch and wiring harness
- Initiation of cooling enhancements where applicable
- Availability is trim- and year-dependent
For buyers with lighter towing needs or weekend adventures, the Crosstrek’s towing package offers a compact-tow solution within Subaru’s smaller SUV range.
Subaru Legacy
The Legacy sedan lineup can be equipped with a towing package on select trims, providing the hardware and cooling support needed for modest towing tasks.
- Trailer hitch and wiring harness
- Cooling components as required by the trim
- Trim- and year-dependent availability
Legacy with the towing package is a practical option for occasional trailer use without moving up to an SUV.
How to confirm your specific build
Because availability and exact contents vary by year, region, and trim, the best way to confirm is to consult your dealer or check the official Subaru build configurator for the model year you’re considering. Look for the “Towing Package,” “Tow Package,” or “Max Tow” designation in the features list, and verify that the package includes the necessary hitch, wiring, and cooling components for your planned towing needs.
Summary
Across Subaru’s current lineup, the towing package is most commonly available on the Outback, Ascent, Forester, Crosstrek, and Legacy, though eligibility depends on the model year and trim. The package generally provides a hitch and wiring harness plus cooling enhancements, with turbo-powered models typically offering higher towing capability. Always verify exact availability and specifications with a dealer or the official Subaru site for your specific vehicle configuration.
