The Subaru Ascent is a three-row mid-size SUV produced from the 2019 model year to the present. This guide covers towing capacity for all Subaru Ascent model years, configurations, and trims.
Following manufacturer-rated towing limits protects the engine, transmission, and braking systems. Proper towing equipment is required to achieve maximum trailer weight ratings.
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2025 Subaru Ascent Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.4L turbocharged H-4 (Boxer) |
| Drivetrain | Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Varies by trim: approx. 1,400 – 1,600 lbs (635 – 726 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 9,000 lbs (4,082 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III (available accessory) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2025 Subaru Ascent offers a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. All 2025 Ascent trims achieve this 5,000-pound rating with the available accessory Class III trailer hitch. Staying within rated limits ensures proper braking control and drivetrain protection.
2024 Subaru Ascent Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.4L turbocharged H-4 (Boxer) |
| Drivetrain | Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Varies by trim: approx. 1,400 – 1,600 lbs (635 – 726 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 9,000 lbs (4,082 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2024 Subaru Ascent provides a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds for properly equipped trims. Models without the factory tow package are limited to 2,000 pounds. The 2.4L turbocharged engine and standard AWD contribute to stable towing performance.
2023 Subaru Ascent Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.4L turbocharged H-4 (Boxer) |
| Drivetrain | Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Varies by trim: approx. 1,400 – 1,600 lbs (635 – 726 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 9,000 lbs (4,082 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2023 Subaru Ascent maximum towing capacity is 5,000 pounds when equipped with the factory tow package. Premium, Onyx, Limited, and Touring trims all achieve the 5,000-pound rating. The Base trim is limited to 2,000 pounds.
2022 Subaru Ascent Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.4L turbocharged H-4 (Boxer) |
| Drivetrain | Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Varies by trim: approx. 1,400 – 1,600 lbs (635 – 726 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 9,000 lbs (4,082 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2022 Subaru Ascent delivers up to 5,000 pounds towing capacity for Premium and higher trims. Trailer Stability Assist is standard across all trims. The Base trim has a maximum rating of 2,000 pounds. Models with the 2.4L turbocharged engine provide consistent towing performance.
2021 Subaru Ascent Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.4L turbocharged H-4 (Boxer) |
| Drivetrain | Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Varies by trim: approx. 1,400 – 1,600 lbs (635 – 726 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 9,000 lbs (4,082 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2021 Subaru Ascent towing capacity reaches 5,000 pounds with the proper equipment. The 2.4L turbocharged BOXER engine produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Standard Trailer Stability Assist helps maintain vehicle control while towing.
2020 Subaru Ascent Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.4L turbocharged H-4 (Boxer) |
| Drivetrain | Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Varies by trim: approx. 1,400 – 1,600 lbs (635 – 726 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 9,000 lbs (4,082 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2020 Subaru Ascent maximum towing capacity is 5,000 pounds when properly equipped with a Class III hitch. Premium and higher trims achieve the full 5,000-pound rating. The base trim is limited to 2,000 pounds. Trailer Stability Assist is standard.
2019 Subaru Ascent Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.4L turbocharged H-4 (Boxer) |
| Drivetrain | Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Varies by trim: approx. 1,400 – 1,600 lbs (635 – 726 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 9,000 lbs (4,082 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2019 Subaru Ascent introduced a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, the highest of any Subaru vehicle at its launch. The 2.4L turbocharged BOXER engine and standard AWD provide the foundation for this towing capability. Properly equipped Premium, Limited, and Touring trims achieve the full 5,000-pound rating. The Base trim is rated at 2,000 pounds.
Towing Equipment and Setup Tips
Proper towing equipment is required to achieve maximum capacity. The factory tow package includes a Class III 2-inch receiver hitch and trailer wiring harness. Trailer brakes are required for trailers over 1,000 pounds. A trailer brake controller is necessary to activate electric trailer brakes.
A weight-distributing hitch is recommended for trailers approaching 5,000 pounds. This equipment helps maintain level vehicle posture and improves steering control. Transmission cooling is standard on all Ascent models.
Tire load ratings must support the combined weight of the vehicle, passengers, cargo, and trailer tongue weight. Trailer sway control is standard on all Ascents with the Trailer Stability Assist system.
Normal vs. Heavy Towing Setup Requirements
| Requirement | Normal Towing (Under 3,500 lbs) | Heavy Towing (3,500-5,000 lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| Tow Package | Recommended | Required |
| Trailer Brakes | Not required | Required |
| Brake Controller | Optional | Required |
| Weight-Distributing Hitch | Not required | Recommended |
| Tongue Weight Range | 8-11% of trailer weight | 10-15% of trailer weight |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum towing capacity of a Subaru Ascent?
The maximum towing capacity of a Subaru Ascent is 5,000 pounds for properly equipped models. This rating applies to all model years from 2019 to 2025.
How much can a Subaru Ascent tow with a tow package?
A Subaru Ascent can tow up to 5,000 pounds when equipped with the factory tow package. The package includes a Class III hitch receiver and trailer wiring harness. Without the tow package, the Ascent is limited to 2,000 pounds.
Does AWD affect Subaru Ascent towing capacity?
All Subaru Ascent models come standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. The AWD system does not limit towing capacity, which remains 5,000 pounds for properly equipped trims. The AWD system provides enhanced traction and stability while towing.
What trailer weight is safe for a Subaru Ascent?
Trailer weight up to 5,000 pounds is safe when the Ascent is properly equipped. The trailer must have its own brakes for loads exceeding 1,000 pounds. Tongue weight should not exceed 500 pounds.
Do I need a weight-distributing hitch for a Subaru Ascent?
A weight-distributing hitch is recommended for trailers approaching 5,000 pounds. This equipment helps distribute tongue weight evenly across the vehicle and trailer axles. Standard hitches are acceptable for lighter loads under 3,500 pounds.
Conclusion
The Subaru Ascent towing capacity ranges from 2,000 to 5,000 pounds depending on trim level and equipment. Premium and higher trims with the factory tow package provide the maximum 5,000-pound rating. The Base trim is limited to 2,000 pounds in all model years.
The 2.4L turbocharged engine, standard AWD, and Trailer Stability Assist provide consistent towing performance. Proper towing equipment, including the correct hitch class and trailer brakes, is essential for safe operation. Always verify specifications using the owner’s manual before towing heavy loads.
