Subaru Ascent Towing Capacity: What Every Model Year Can Tow (2019–2025)

This guide is continuously updated for relevancy, accuracy, and the most recent info.

The Subaru Ascent has quietly become one of the most capable three-row family SUVs you can buy — especially when towing is part of the plan. Every Ascent since its debut has offered up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity when properly equipped, making it Subaru’s strongest hauler and a major step up from the brand’s smaller Outback and Forester.

Related – Subaru SUV Models Up Close: Smallest to Biggest

Under the hood, all model years use Subaru’s 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER engine paired with a high-torque CVT and standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. Paired with the right hardware, that combination delivers the full 5,000-lb tow rating across most trims, while lower-spec models are rated at 2,000 lbs. This updated guide covers towing capacity for every model year, what affects your tow rating, and how the Ascent compares across the three-row SUV class.

2025 and 2024 Subaru Ascent

Maximum towing capacity: 5,000 lbs
Base trim: 2,000 lbs
Engine: 2.4L turbo BOXER (260 hp / 277 lb-ft)
Drivetrain: Standard AWD
Transmission: High-torque Lineartronic CVT

Subaru hasn’t changed the towing numbers for 2025. The Ascent maintains its strong 5,000-lb rating, provided the trailer has its own brakes.

Subaru Ascent Towing Capacity by Year (2019–2025)

Since day one, the Ascent has delivered consistent 5,000-lb capability, making it Subaru’s strongest tow vehicle ever.

Why the Ascent Can Tow 5,000 Pounds

The Ascent’s tow rating is built around three factors:

1. The 2.4L Turbo BOXER Engine

260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque give the Ascent strong low-end torque, essential for towing, especially at highway speeds or on inclines.

2. Subaru’s Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive

Unlike rivals that require AWD to unlock max towing, the Ascent comes standard with it across all trims, a huge advantage for traction and stability.

3. High-Torque CVT & Cooling Hardware

Upper trims include additional transmission cooling and reinforced components that support the full 5,000-lb rating. Base models lack the upgraded cooling and are therefore limited to 2,000 lbs.

What You Can Tow With a Subaru Ascent

With 5,000 lbs of towing power, the Ascent is capable of pulling:

• A midsize camper or travel trailer
• A boat and trailer
• ATVs / UTVs on a flatbed
• Small enclosed cargo trailers
• Snowmobiles or dirt bikes with gear
• Lightweight car trailers (depending on weight)

The 2,000-lb base trim is best suited for:

• Utility trailers
• Lawn equipment
• Small aluminum boats
• Compact pop-up campers

Subaru Ascent vs. Outback & Forester (Towing)

The Outback and Forester have improved their towing numbers in recent years (the 2026 Forester Wilderness is up from 3,000 lbs in 2025). However, they still fall well short of the Ascent’s capability, especially important for families with larger trailers.

How the Subaru Ascent Compares to Other 3-Row SUVs

Although not the strongest in the mid-size SUV class, the Ascent sits squarely in the top tier for overall capability and stands out for standard AWD and balanced performance.