Which Outback is best for towing?
The Subaru Outback is a versatile and reliable vehicle, known for its rugged design and capability to handle a variety of terrains. If you're considering an Outback for towing purposes, it's essential to understand the differences between the various trims and engine options to determine which one suits your needs best. In this article, we'll explore the towing capacities of different Subaru Outback models and help you decide which one is ideal for your towing requirements.
Understanding Towing Capacity in the Subaru Outback
Towing capacity refers to the maximum weight a vehicle can safely tow, including the trailer and its contents. The Subaru Outback offers a range of towing capacities depending on the engine type and trim level. Here's a breakdown of the key factors that influence towing capacity in the Outback:
- Engine Type: The Outback comes with two engine options: a 2.5L naturally aspirated engine and a 2.4L turbocharged engine. The turbocharged engine provides more power and, consequently, a higher towing capacity.
- Trim Level: Higher trims often come equipped with additional features that enhance towing performance, such as trailer stability assist and upgraded suspension systems.
- Accessories: Proper towing equipment, such as a hitch receiver and wiring harness, is essential for safe towing.
Understanding these factors will help you choose the right Outback model for your towing needs. Now, let's dive into the specific models and their towing capabilities.
Subaru Outback Models and Their Towing Capacities
Here is a detailed look at the towing capacities of the Subaru Outback models:
- Base and Premium Trims (2.5L Engine): These trims come with the standard 2.5L engine, offering a towing capacity of up to 2,700 pounds. This is sufficient for small trailers, lightweight boats, or utility trailers.
- Onyx Edition XT, Limited XT, and Touring XT (2.4L Turbocharged Engine): These trims feature the more powerful 2.4L turbocharged engine, which increases the towing capacity to 3,500 pounds. This makes them ideal for larger trailers, mid-sized boats, or camper trailers.
- Wilderness Trim: The Wilderness trim is specifically designed for off-road adventures and towing. It also features the 2.4L turbocharged engine with a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, along with additional off-road enhancements like higher ground clearance and all-terrain tires.
As you can see, the turbocharged engine models are the best choice for those who need higher towing capacity, while the base models are suitable for lighter towing needs.
Which Outback Should You Choose?
If towing is a priority for you, the best Subaru Outback models are those equipped with the 2.4L turbocharged engine, such as the Onyx Edition XT, Limited XT, Touring XT, or Wilderness trim. These models not only offer the highest towing capacity but also come with additional features that enhance safety and performance while towing.
For lighter towing needs, the base and premium trims with the 2.5L engine are more than adequate. They provide excellent fuel efficiency and are perfect for smaller loads.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right Subaru Outback for towing depends on your specific needs. If you plan to tow heavier loads, opt for a model with the 2.4L turbocharged engine. For lighter towing, the 2.5L engine models will suffice. Regardless of your choice, the Subaru Outback remains a reliable and capable vehicle for all your towing adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Outback model is best for towing?
Outbacks are best at towing a pop-up or a smaller teardrop. I have hauled both with my older outback, and it was like it wasn't even back there. Look for smaller.
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.
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.
Which Subaru model has the best towing capacity?
Subaru Ascent
The Subaru Ascent is the largest Subaru SUV, and it also has the highest maximum towing capacity – up to 5,000 pounds in all trim levels but the Base trim1 – along with seating for seven or eight passengers, depending upon the trim level.
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.
Why can a Subaru Outback tow more than a Subaru Forester?
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 is the best Subaru engine for towing?
The 2.5L SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder engine can tow up to 2,700 pounds, making it an excellent choice for those who need to haul cargo. The available 2.4L SUBARU BOXER turbo four-cylinder engine has a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds, allowing you to bring along more gear on your trips.
Which Subaru Outback can tow 3500 pounds?
Subaru Outback
This to the extent of the Wilderness Edition trim providing all the needs required of a base camp setup and the means of getting there. With Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive intact, you'll be able to pull up to 3,500 pounds in four Outback trims - Onyx Edition XT, Wilderness, Limited XT and Touring XT.
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.
