Which Subaru models can be flat towed?
Flat towing, also known as dinghy towing, is a popular method for towing a vehicle behind an RV or motorhome. It involves towing the car with all four wheels on the ground, which is convenient for many travelers. However, not all vehicles are designed to be flat towed without risking damage to their transmission or drivetrain. If you're a Subaru owner or considering purchasing one for this purpose, it's essential to know which models are suitable for flat towing.
Understanding Flat Towing and Subaru Vehicles
Subaru vehicles are known for their symmetrical all-wheel-drive systems and boxer engines, which provide excellent performance and reliability. However, these features also mean that not all Subaru models are compatible with flat towing. The drivetrain and transmission type play a significant role in determining whether a Subaru can be safely flat towed.
Subaru Models That Can Be Flat Towed
As of 2025, the following Subaru models are generally considered suitable for flat towing under specific conditions:
- Subaru Crosstrek (Manual Transmission): The manual transmission version of the Crosstrek can be flat towed. However, the automatic transmission version cannot be flat towed due to potential damage to the CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission).
- Subaru Impreza (Manual Transmission): Similar to the Crosstrek, only the manual transmission Impreza is flat towable. Automatic versions are not suitable for flat towing.
- Subaru Forester (Manual Transmission): Older models of the Forester with manual transmissions can be flat towed. Newer models with CVT are not compatible with flat towing.
It is crucial to consult your vehicle's owner's manual for specific instructions and limitations before attempting to flat tow any Subaru model. The manual will provide detailed guidance on whether your vehicle is suitable for flat towing and any precautions you need to take.
Why Automatic Transmission Subarus Cannot Be Flat Towed
Subaru models equipped with automatic transmissions, particularly those with CVTs, are not designed for flat towing. The reason lies in the way these transmissions are lubricated. When the engine is off, the transmission's internal components are not adequately lubricated, which can lead to severe damage if the vehicle is towed with all four wheels on the ground.
Steps to Safely Flat Tow a Subaru
If you own a Subaru model with a manual transmission and plan to flat tow it, follow these steps to ensure safe towing:
- Check your owner's manual to confirm that your specific model and year are flat towable.
- Shift the transmission into neutral before towing.
- Ensure the parking brake is fully released.
- Use a high-quality tow bar and safety chains to secure the vehicle to the towing vehicle.
- Periodically start the engine and let it run for a few minutes during long towing trips to circulate fluids and prevent battery drain.
By following these steps, you can minimize the risk of damage to your Subaru while flat towing.
Conclusion
While Subaru offers reliable and versatile vehicles, not all models are suitable for flat towing. Generally, only manual transmission versions of the Crosstrek, Impreza, and older Forester models can be flat towed safely. Always consult your owner's manual and follow the recommended guidelines to ensure a smooth and damage-free towing experience. If you're unsure or need assistance, feel free to contact a trusted auto repair shop like Kevin's Autos for expert advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Subaru to tow behind an RV?
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.
Can a Subaru Outback AWD be flat towed?
Q: Can the Subaru Outback be flat-towed? A: No, this is not recommended.
Is there a Subaru 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.
What is the best vehicle to flat tow behind a motorhome?
Top 10 flat tow vehicles
- Jeep Wrangler JL.
- Ford F-150.
- Jeep Wrangler JK.
- Chevrolet Equinox.
- Jeep Grand Cherokee.
- Jeep Cherokee.
- Chevrolet Colorado.
- Honda CR-V.
Can you tow a camper with a Subaru Forester?
2019-2022 models: These models maintained the 1,500-pound towing capacity, making them suitable for light towing tasks. 2023 model: The 2023 Subaru Forester introduced the Wilderness trim, which significantly increased the towing capacity to 3,000 pounds, while other trims remained at 1,500 pounds.
What Subaru can pull a small trailer?
Subaru Ascent
- Ascent base may tow up to 2,000-lbs. with optional hitch affixed for small trailers or campers.
- Ascent Premium offers the ability to haul 5,000-lbs. given the ball mount accessory.
- Ascent Onyx Edition, Limited and Touring each may pull up to 5,000-lbs. in watercraft or more expansive camper setups.
Can you flat tow a Subaru Crosstrek behind an RV?
Turns out the Subaru Crosstrek can be flat towed if it has a manual transmission. The second thing we learned is that this is not an inexpensive procedure. Below is a list of the parts we used and links to those parts on eTrailer's website.
Are any Subarus flats towable?
The only Subarus that at one time were ok for flat towing behind a vehicle were the manual transmission ones, and even then, Subaru no longer recommends it. I see no reason why a manual BRZ (RWD) cannot be towed. And maybe even the auto, since it's not CVT (6-sp regular auto instead). But the manual should be fine IMO.
What is the easiest car to flat tow behind a RV?
Compact and subcompact cars are the best cars for flat towing. Some examples include select years of the Chevy Sonic, Ford Focus and Ford Fiesta. A car must have a transmission disconnect, steering lockout override and other features to be able to flat tow.
Is a Subaru Forester towable?
The typical base models since the 2014 iteration have been able to tow about 1,500 pounds when properly equipped. However, the 2022 through 2024 Subaru Forester models use the Class II hitch receiver that can tow up to 3,000 pounds when properly equipped.
