The Subaru Forester has always been more about practicality, safety, and all-weather confidence than towing strength. For decades, its modest ratings lagged behind rivals—and even Subaru’s own Crosstrek and Outback eventually surpassed it. But things changed recently. Beginning in 2022, the Forester finally doubled its towing capacity when equipped with a Class II hitch, and the Wilderness variant took things even further.
For 2026, that improvement continues: the new Forester Wilderness now tows 3,500 lbs, giving Subaru buyers real utility without jumping to the Ascent’s 5,000-lb capability.
Subaru Forester Towing Capacity (2026)
- Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, Touring: 1,500 lbs (standard)
- 2026 Forester Wilderness: 3,500 lbs (up from 3,000 lbs)
Required for 3,000–3,500 lbs
- Class II hitch receiver (factory or accessory)
- Properly equipped trailer (with brakes, where required)
Why the Forester’s Towing Numbers Improved
All 2025–2026 Forester trims use Subaru’s 2.5-liter Boxer four-cylinder paired with a Lineartronic CVT and standard all-wheel drive. Output is now 180 hp, and while power isn’t dramatically higher than previous years, Subaru has stiffened the chassis and improved body rigidity by roughly 10% thanks to a reinforced Subaru Global Platform structure.
The result is a more stable, quieter Forester under load—with better ride smoothness and predictability when towing compared to pre-2022 models. Ground clearance remains best-in-class at 8.7 inches, another helpful advantage when hauling on rougher roads or trailheads.
Related – First Drive: 2025 Subaru Forester Balances Tradition and Modern Tweaks
Forester Towing Capacity by Generation (Updated to Include 2026)
| Generation | Years | Max Tow Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 1st gen | 1997–2002 | 1,100 lbs |
| 2nd gen | 2003–2008 | Up to 1,300 lbs |
| 3rd gen | 2009–2013 | Up to 1,400 lbs |
| 4th gen | 2014–2018 | 1,500 lbs |
| 5th gen | 2019–2021 | 1,500 lbs |
| 5th gen refresh | 2022–2024 | 1,500 lbs (base) / 3,000 lbs (Wilderness + Class II hitch) |
| 6th gen | 2025–2026 | 1,500 lbs (base) / 3,500 lbs Wilderness |
What the Forester Can Tow (1,500 lbs versions)
If you’re sticking with the standard 1,500-lb rating, expect to safely pull:
- Small utility trailers
- A couple of canoes or kayaks
- Small dirt bikes or lightweight motorcycles
- A jet ski
- Small teardrop trailers
This fits the Forester’s core demographic: empty-nesters, couples, growing families, and outdoor-focused buyers—not large-trailer owners.
What the Wilderness Can Tow (3,000–3,500 lbs)
The Wilderness trim, especially the updated 2026 3,500-lb version, is suited for:
- Lightweight campers and small RVs
- Dual jet skis
- Small boats
- Heavier utility trailers
- Medium-sized motorcycles on a tandem trailer
This bump finally puts the Forester Wilderness into the same territory as the Outback Wilderness (3,500 lbs) and ahead of many compact SUV rivals. It’s true: Subaru’s subcompact Crosstrek Wilderness remains rated at 3,500 lbs, which now matches the 2026 Forester Wilderness—and beats the Forester’s 1,500-lb standard trims. Buyers cross-shopping these two models should look at payload, interior space, and ride height before deciding.
Related – Subaru SUV Models Up Close: Smallest to Biggest
Trailer Stability Assist: Standard Since 2019
Trailer Stability Assist uses onboard yaw sensors to detect trailer sway and can brake individual wheels to pull everything back in line. It’s not a replacement for proper trailer loading, but it dramatically reduces white-knuckle moments—especially on windy highways.
More Towing-Helpful Features (2025–2026)
The latest Forester generations add several features that improve safety and confidence when hauling:
- LED Steering Responsive Headlights
- High Beam Assist
- Individual-tire TPMS readout
- Updated EyeSight Driver Assist (standard on all trims)
- Improved ride refinement & noise reduction
- Better chassis rigidity for towing stability
Takeaway
The Forester isn’t built to haul massive campers, but the long-overdue jump to 3,000–3,500 lbs finally gives Subaru’s popular compact SUV the muscle many owners have been asking for. Whether you’re hauling weekend toys or a lightweight camper, the updated Wilderness trim positions the Forester as a far more capable adventure rig—without stepping up to the larger Ascent.
