What Subaru Can Tow the Most

Looking for the Subaru that can tow the most? The 2024 Subaru Ascent leads the pack with a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. This three-row SUV combines rugged capability with Subaru’s signature safety and all-wheel drive, making it ideal for hauling trailers, boats, or campers.

This is a comprehensive guide about What Subaru Can Tow the Most.

Key Takeaways

• The Subaru Ascent tows the most: With a 5,000-pound towing capacity, it’s the strongest towing vehicle in Subaru’s current lineup.
• Proper equipment is essential: To reach maximum towing, you’ll need the optional towing package and correct hitch setup.
• All-wheel drive comes standard: Every Subaru includes Symmetrical AWD, enhancing traction and control while towing.
• Engine matters: The Ascent’s turbocharged 2.4L engine provides the power needed for heavy loads.
• Not all Subarus are built to tow: Compact models like the Impreza and Crosstrek have limited towing abilities (1,500–2,000 lbs).
• Safety features support towing: Subaru’s EyeSight system includes adaptive cruise and lane assist, helpful when hauling.
• Real-world performance counts: Consider payload, braking, and cooling systems—not just the number on paper.

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What Subaru Can Tow the Most? A Complete Guide

If you’re a Subaru fan with a trailer in tow—literally—you’ve probably asked: *What Subaru can tow the most?* Subaru vehicles are known for their reliability, all-weather capability, and rugged design. But when it comes to towing, not all Subarus are created equal. While the brand excels in safety and off-road readiness, towing capacity varies widely across models.

The good news? Subaru does offer a vehicle that stands out in the towing department. The 2024 Subaru Ascent is the clear winner, capable of pulling up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. That’s enough to handle a small camper, a pontoon boat, or even a utility trailer loaded with gear. But how does it compare to other models? And what do you need to know before hitching up?

In this guide, we’ll break down every Subaru model’s towing capacity, explain what affects performance, and help you decide which one fits your hauling needs. Whether you’re planning weekend adventures or moving heavy equipment, understanding your vehicle’s limits is key to safe and successful towing.

Why Towing Capacity Matters

Towing isn’t just about power—it’s about safety, control, and vehicle integrity. Exceeding your vehicle’s towing capacity can lead to brake failure, transmission overheating, suspension damage, and loss of control. That’s why knowing your Subaru’s limits is critical.

Towing capacity refers to the maximum weight your vehicle can safely pull, including the trailer, cargo, passengers, and fuel. This number isn’t arbitrary—it’s determined by Subaru engineers based on the vehicle’s engine strength, transmission cooling, braking system, frame design, and suspension.

For example, a small crossover like the Subaru Crosstrek is built for city driving and light outdoor use. Its towing capacity tops out at 1,500 pounds—enough for a small utility trailer or a lightweight popup camper. But try towing a 3,000-pound boat with it, and you’re asking for trouble.

On the other hand, the Ascent is engineered with towing in mind. It has a stronger frame, a more robust cooling system, and a turbocharged engine designed to handle heavier loads. That’s why it can safely tow up to 5,000 pounds—nearly three times what the Crosstrek can manage.

Real-World Towing Scenarios

Let’s put these numbers into context. A typical small travel trailer weighs between 2,500 and 4,000 pounds. A jet ski and trailer combo might be around 1,200 pounds. A small pontoon boat with a trailer can easily hit 3,500 pounds. And a mid-size SUV or ATV on a trailer? That could be 4,500 pounds or more.

If you’re planning to tow any of these regularly, you’ll need a vehicle that can handle the load without straining. The Ascent’s 5,000-pound capacity gives you flexibility. You can tow a 3,500-pound camper with room to spare for gear and passengers. Meanwhile, the Outback—Subaru’s next-best towing model—can handle up to 2,700 pounds, which works for smaller trailers but limits your options.

Subaru Ascent: The Towing Champion

The 2024 Subaru Ascent is the undisputed king of towing in the Subaru lineup. With a maximum capacity of 5,000 pounds, it outperforms every other model by a significant margin. This three-row SUV is built for families who need space, safety, and serious capability.

Under the hood, the Ascent features a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. That extra torque is crucial for towing—it provides the low-end grunt needed to get heavy loads moving from a stop and maintain speed on hills.

But power alone isn’t enough. The Ascent also includes a standard continuously variable transmission (CVT) with a manual mode, allowing you to control gear shifts when towing. More importantly, it comes with a factory-installed towing package on higher trims (Premium, Limited, and Touring), which includes a Class III hitch receiver, wiring harness, and upgraded cooling systems.

What You Need to Tow 5,000 Pounds

To reach the full 5,000-pound towing capacity, you must have the optional towing package installed. This isn’t just a recommendation—it’s a requirement. Without it, the Ascent’s towing capacity drops to 2,000 pounds, which is a huge difference.

The towing package includes:
– A Class III hitch receiver (2-inch opening)
– 7-pin wiring harness for trailer lights and brakes
– Transmission cooler to prevent overheating
– Engine oil cooler for sustained performance
– Heavy-duty alternator and battery

These components work together to protect your vehicle during long hauls or uphill climbs. For example, the transmission cooler helps prevent overheating when you’re pulling a heavy load for extended periods—something that can damage the CVT if not managed.

Driving Dynamics While Towing

Towing changes how a vehicle handles. The added weight affects braking distance, steering response, and stability. The Ascent’s standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive helps maintain traction, especially in wet or snowy conditions. It also improves control when starting on inclines or navigating tight turns with a trailer.

Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist system includes features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, which can be helpful when towing. Adaptive cruise maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, reducing the need for constant speed adjustments. Lane assist helps keep you centered, which is especially useful when a trailer affects your vehicle’s balance.

However, even with these aids, towing requires extra caution. Always allow more stopping distance, avoid sudden maneuvers, and check your mirrors frequently. If your trailer is over 2,000 pounds, consider adding trailer brakes for added safety.

Other Subaru Models: Towing Capacities Compared

While the Ascent leads the pack, other Subaru models offer varying levels of towing ability. Here’s a breakdown of each current model’s maximum towing capacity:

– Subaru Outback: 2,700 lbs (with towing package)
– Subaru Forester: 1,500 lbs
– Subaru Crosstrek: 1,500 lbs
– Subaru Impreza: 1,000 lbs (hatchback), 1,500 lbs (with optional package)
– Subaru WRX: 1,000 lbs
– Subaru BRZ: Not recommended for towing

As you can see, the gap between the Ascent and the rest is substantial. The Outback comes closest, but even it falls short of the 5,000-pound mark. Let’s take a closer look at the Outback, Subaru’s second-best towing option.

Subaru Outback: The Runner-Up

The 2024 Subaru Outback is a versatile wagon that blends car-like comfort with SUV capability. With the optional towing package, it can tow up to 2,700 pounds. That’s enough for a small camper, a motorcycle trailer, or a couple of ATVs.

The Outback uses the same 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine as the Forester, producing 182 horsepower. Higher trims offer a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with 260 horsepower—the same as the Ascent. However, due to differences in chassis design and cooling systems, the Outback’s towing capacity is lower.

One advantage of the Outback is its lower price point and better fuel economy compared to the Ascent. If you don’t need to tow more than 2,700 pounds, it’s a solid choice. Just remember: the towing package is required to reach that limit. Without it, the Outback can only tow 1,500 pounds.

Compact Subarus: Light-Duty Towing Only

Models like the Forester, Crosstrek, and Impreza are not designed for heavy towing. Their 1,500-pound limit is suitable for small trailers, bike racks, or lightweight campers. The Crosstrek, for example, is popular among outdoor enthusiasts who want to haul a kayak or a small utility trailer to a job site.

But pushing these vehicles beyond their limits can cause serious problems. Their transmissions aren’t built for sustained heavy loads, and overheating is a real risk. If you plan to tow regularly or haul anything over 2,000 pounds, these models aren’t the right fit.

What Affects Towing Performance?

Towing capacity is just one piece of the puzzle. Several factors influence how well your Subaru handles a load:

Payload Capacity

Payload is the total weight your vehicle can carry, including passengers, cargo, and the tongue weight of the trailer. The Ascent has a payload capacity of around 1,600 pounds. If you’re carrying three adults, luggage, and a 5,000-pound trailer, you need to ensure the combined weight doesn’t exceed this limit.

Tongue weight—the downward force the trailer exerts on the hitch—should be 10–15% of the total trailer weight. For a 5,000-pound trailer, that’s 500–750 pounds. This weight counts toward your payload, so plan accordingly.

Braking and Stability

Heavier loads require longer stopping distances. The Ascent’s brake system is designed to handle this, but adding trailer brakes is wise for loads over 2,000 pounds. Electric or surge brakes on the trailer help share the braking load and improve safety.

Stability is also key. A swaying trailer can cause dangerous fishtailing. Use a weight-distribution hitch and anti-sway bars to keep the trailer aligned. The Ascent’s standard AWD and electronic stability control help, but proper setup is essential.

Cooling Systems

Towing generates extra heat, especially in the engine and transmission. The Ascent’s upgraded coolers help manage this, but avoid overloading the system. If you’re towing in hot weather or mountainous terrain, take breaks to let the engine cool down.

Tips for Safe and Effective Towing

Towing safely isn’t just about having the right vehicle—it’s about preparation and practice. Here are some tips to help you tow confidently:

– Check your owner’s manual: Always refer to Subaru’s official towing guide for your specific model and year.
– Use the right hitch: A Class III hitch is required for the Ascent’s full capacity. Make sure it’s properly rated and installed.
– Balance your load: Keep heavy items low and centered in the trailer. Avoid overloading one side.
– Practice before you go: Find an empty parking lot to practice backing up, turning, and braking with your trailer.
– Inspect before each trip: Check tire pressure, lights, hitch connections, and brake functionality.
– Know your limits: Don’t exceed the towing or payload capacity, even if the trailer “feels light.”

Conclusion: The Ascent Is Your Best Bet

So, what Subaru can tow the most? The answer is clear: the 2024 Subaru Ascent. With a 5,000-pound towing capacity, it’s the only Subaru built for serious hauling. Whether you’re towing a camper across the country or a boat to the lake, the Ascent delivers the power, safety, and reliability you need.

Other Subarus have their strengths—great fuel economy, compact size, and all-weather capability—but they simply can’t match the Ascent’s towing performance. If your adventures require more than 2,000 pounds of pulling power, the Ascent is the smart choice.

Remember, towing safely means respecting your vehicle’s limits, using the right equipment, and preparing for the road ahead. With the Ascent and proper setup, you’ll be ready for whatever you need to haul.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Subaru model has the highest towing capacity?

The 2024 Subaru Ascent has the highest towing capacity in the lineup at 5,000 pounds when properly equipped with the optional towing package. No other Subaru comes close to this level of capability.

Can the Subaru Outback tow a camper?

Yes, the Outback can tow small to mid-size campers up to 2,700 pounds with the optional towing package. It’s a good option for lightweight travel trailers or pop-up campers.

Do I need a special package to tow with a Subaru?

Yes, for most models, you need the optional towing package to reach the maximum towing capacity. For the Ascent, this package is required to tow up to 5,000 pounds.

Can the Subaru Crosstrek tow a small trailer?

Yes, the Crosstrek can tow up to 1,500 pounds, which is suitable for small utility trailers, bike racks, or lightweight campers. It’s not designed for heavy loads.

Does towing affect Subaru’s warranty?

Towing within the vehicle’s rated capacity does not void the warranty. However, damage caused by exceeding towing limits or improper setup may not be covered.

Is all-wheel drive helpful when towing?

Yes, Subaru’s standard Symmetrical AWD improves traction and control, especially in wet, snowy, or uneven conditions. It helps maintain stability when starting, stopping, or turning with a trailer.