The Subaru Outback’s Towing Capacity Depends on the Engine

The Subaru Outback's towing capacity increased by 800 pounds with the latest 2.4L cylinder turbo - the most ever since the SUV arrived in 1994. But is it enough, and how does it compare with the compact Forester and mid-size, three-row Ascent?

A mid-size SUV with 3,500 pounds towing capacity

Subaru EngineTowing CapacityOutback Generation
2.4L Turbo 4-cylinder3,500 pounds2020-present: 6th-generation
2.5L 4-cylinder2,700 pounds2020-present: 6th-generation
3.6L 6-cylinder3,0000 pounds2015-2019: 5th-generation
2.5L 4-cylinder2,700 pounds2015-2019: 5th-generation
Note: the 4th-generation towing capacity figures and engines are the same as the 5th-generation (2010-2014).

The latest generation Outback’s towing capacity depends on the two available engines. Expect 2,700 pounds of towing from the standard 2.5L 4-cylinder engine; the optional 2.4L turbo is rated at 3,500 pounds.

The outgoing 3.6L V6-powered Outback powering the 2019 model is rated at 2,700 pounds. Subaru managed to squeeze an extra 800 pounds out of a smaller turbo engine, the most ever since the Outback first arrived in 1994. The previous generation 2.5L 4-cylinder Outback towing is unchanged at 2,700 pounds.

2023 Subaru Outback Review jeff wilson
2023 Subaru Outback. Photo: Jeff Wilson

Outback Towing VS. the Forester and Ascent

2024 Forester2024 Outback2024 Ascent
Max. Towing Capacity3,000 pounds3,500 pounds5,000 pounds
  • Subaru Forester: a compact SUV, the Forester’s dimensions have grown over the years. Most impressive, since 2022, the Forester features up to 3,000 pounds towing capacity with an available accessory Class II hitch receiver; 3,000 pounds towing is standard on the more rugged Forester Wilderness.
  • Subaru Outback: seeing as the small Forester tows as much as it does, the latest 3,500-pound figure only makes sense.
  • Subaru Ascent: technically, the Ascent is a mid-size SUV (even with its third-row since 2023), as is the Outback. But at 5,000 pounds, it’s the towing champ within Subaru’s SUV lineup.
2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness with roof cargo box driving up a mountain
2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness. Photo: Subaru

What can the Subaru Outback tow?

A towing capacity of 3,500 pounds for the Subaru Outback allows you to tow a range of objects. Below are some examples, but remember to consider the trailer’s weight, the weight of any cargo, and the tongue weight (discussed more below) when determining if your Subaru Outback is safely within its towing capacity.

Additionally, make sure to adhere to local towing regulations and ensure your vehicle’s towing equipment is in good condition. Always consult your Outback owner’s manual and adhere to Subaru’s recommendations for safe towing practices.

  1. Small to Medium Trailers: You can tow small to medium-sized trailers, such as utility trailers, camping trailers, and small boat trailers.
  2. Small Boats: Many smaller boats, including some fishing boats and smaller sailboats, fall within this weight range.
  3. Small RVs: Certain lightweight travel trailers or camper trailers designed for couples or small families may be towed by the Subaru Outback.
  4. Jet Skis and Personal Watercraft: You can tow one or more jet skis or personal watercraft.
  5. Motorcycle Trailers: The Outback can tow trailers designed to transport motorcycles.
  6. Cargo Carriers: Towing cargo carriers or small enclosed cargo trailers can expand your storage capacity for road trips.
2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness review
2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness. Photo: Brian Chow

Does tongue weight matter? 

Researching the Outback’s towing capacity, we came across several forums with various opinions (of course). One topic was the tongue weight and its impact on the SUV’s pulling abilities. 

Yes, tongue weight does matter when it comes to towing capacity. Tongue weight is the downward force exerted on the hitch ball by the trailer, and it plays a critical role in maintaining safe and stable towing conditions. Proper tongue weight helps distribute the weight of the trailer across the towing vehicle, improving control, steering, and braking.

It’s essential to maintain an appropriate tongue weight, typically recommended to be around 10-15% of the total trailer weight, depending on the specific trailer and towing vehicle. If the tongue weight is too low, it can result in unstable towing conditions, with the trailer swaying or fishtailing. On the other hand, if the tongue weight is too high, it can overload the rear suspension of the towing vehicle, impacting its handling and braking abilities.

When considering towing with the Outback, it’s crucial to adhere to Subaru’s recommendations for both towing capacity and tongue weight to ensure safe and controlled towing experiences. Overloading a vehicle beyond its specified limits can be dangerous and may result in accidents or damage to the vehicle and trailer. Always consult your Outback

Up Next:
Author:
News Editor
News Editor
Bringing the latest news including release dates, pricing announcements, product updates. With some glossy concepts and special edition rides in the mix.