Which Subaru has 3500 towing capacity?
The Subaru Outback, when equipped with the 2.4-liter turbo engine and the factory towing package, can tow up to 3,500 pounds. Other Subarus offer different maximum tow ratings depending on engine and equipment, with the Ascent capable of towing more than that in certain configurations.
Understanding these ratings matters for buyers who plan to tow trailers, boats, or campers. Towing capacity is a ceiling that depends on the engine, transmission, drivetrain, and whether the vehicle is equipped with a towing package and other protective gear. Always verify the exact specs for the model year and trim you’re considering.
Outback: The 3,500-pound benchmark
The Outback’s 3,500-pound limit is tied to the 2.4-liter turbocharged engine paired with Subaru’s official towing package. This combination is designed to provide the necessary braking, cooling, and hitching support to meet that rating, subject to proper installation and adherence to payload limits.
For model-year and trim-specific details, consult Subaru’s official specifications or the owner’s manual, as ratings can vary by year and configuration.
Key configuration that achieves 3,500 pounds:
- Subaru Outback with 2.4L turbo engine and towing package: up to 3,500 pounds (properly equipped).
In summary, the 3,500-pound towing figure is most closely associated with the Outback’s turbocharged variant when the towing package is installed. Other models may tow more or less depending on their equipment and engine choices.
Beyond 3,500 pounds: how Subaru models compare
The Ascent, Subaru’s larger, three-row SUV, can exceed the 3,500-pound mark in many configurations. With the 2.4-liter turbo engine and proper equipment, the Ascent is rated up to about 5,000 pounds, offering a higher ceiling for heavier towing needs.
There are variations across the lineup, and some trims of other models (such as base Outback configurations) tow less than 3,500 pounds. Always confirm the exact rating for your year and trim before towing.
- Subaru Ascent with 2.4L turbo engine: up to 5,000 pounds (properly equipped).
For anyone weighing options, the takeaway is clear: if 3,500 pounds is your target, the Outback with the turbo engine and towing package is the standard-bearer in Subaru’s lineup. If you need more than 3,500 pounds, the Ascent offers a higher ceiling.
Practical towing considerations
Towing involves more than the engine. It requires the correct hitch, possibly a transmission cooler, proper weight distribution, and adherence to payload limits. Always follow the owner's manual and local regulatory requirements, and use appropriate safety gear and braking equipment when towing.
How to verify your exact build
To confirm whether a specific Subaru can tow 3,500 pounds, check the window sticker, Subaru’s official site, and the owner's manual for your exact model year and trim. Ratings can differ based on engine, transmission, and whether the towing package is installed.
Summary
For a 3,500-pound towing capacity, the Subaru Outback with the 2.4-liter turbo engine and towing package is the primary option. The Ascent can tow more—up to roughly 5,000 pounds—when properly equipped. Always verify the exact rating for your year, trim, and equipment, and plan towing with the appropriate gear and safety practices.
Which Subaru has a tow package?
Many Subaru models can be equipped with a towing package, with the Ascent offering the highest capacity (up to 5,000 lbs), followed by the Outback (2,700–3,500 lbs) and Forester/Crosstrek (1,500 lbs). The specific capacity varies by model and trim, with some high-performance or adventure-oriented trims like the Outback Wilderness or Forester Wilderness having higher capacities than base models. Towing packages typically include a hitch receiver and wiring harness, and some models may also include a transmission cooler.
Subaru models with towing packages
| Model | Max Towing Capacity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ascent | 5,000 lbs | Available with a towing package and can tow larger campers, boats, or ATVs. |
| Outback | 2,700–3,500 lbs | Capacity varies by engine and trim; 3,500 lbs is available on turbo/Wilderness models. |
| Forester | 1,500–3,000 lbs | Base models typically have 1,500 lbs; the Wilderness trim can tow up to 3,000 lbs. |
| Crosstrek | 1,500 lbs (base) | The Wilderness trim can tow up to 3,500 lbs. |
| Solterra | 2,000–4,000 lbs | The electric SUV's capacity can vary by model year. |
| WRX | Not typically rated for towing | The WRX is not designed for towing and generally lacks a tow hitch option. |
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What to know before towing
- Check capacity: Always check your specific model's and trim's manual to confirm the exact towing capacity.
- Towing package: A towing package is often required for maximum capacity and includes a hitch receiver and wiring harness.
- Trailer Stability Assist: Most Subaru SUVs have Trailer Stability Assist to provide a more stable and secure towing experience.
Which Subaru model has the highest towing capacity?
The Subaru with the highest towing capacity is the Subaru Ascent, which can tow up to 5,000 pounds. This three-row SUV is the most capable for pulling larger items like boats, trailers, and campers, and its capacity is consistent across most of its trims.
- Towing capacity: 5,000 pounds
- Suitable for: Large trailers, boats, and camping gear
- Engine: Turbocharged BOXER engine
- Other features: Available Class III trailer hitch, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, and EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology
What Subaru has a 3500 towing capacity?
Which Subaru Outback trims offer the highest towing capacity? The Subaru Outback Onyx Edition XT, Wilderness, Limited XT, and Touring XT models achieve the highest towing capacity at 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. These trims feature the 2.4-liter turbocharged SUBARU BOXER engine not found on the lower editions.
Which Subaru Crosstrek can tow 3500 lbs?
2025 Crosstrek
With its robust engine lineup, including a standout Wilderness trim capable of towing up to 3,500 pounds, the 2025 Crosstrek is designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike.
