TL;DR
- The Subaru Outback towing capacity varies significantly by engine. Standard models tow 2,700 pounds, while turbocharged versions handle up to 3,500 pounds for diverse adventures.
- The 2.5L engine allows 2,700 pounds of Subaru Outback towing. Turbocharged Wilderness and XT trims achieve 3,500 pounds, enhancing hauling capabilities across models.
- Where to buy a Subaru Outback in Queens? You can buy the latest Subaru Outback models in Queens, NY at Koeppel Subaru.
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Also Read: Exploring the 2025 Subaru Outback Trim Levels
For many adventurers and families across the New York and Tri-State area, the Subaru Outback has become synonymous with capability, reliability, and the promise of exploration. As a premier retailer of new and used Subaru vehicles, Koeppel Subaru understands the importance of knowing your vehicle's limits and potential, especially when it comes to hauling gear for your next big adventure. Whether you are planning a weekend camping trip, transporting equipment, or bringing a boat to the lake, understanding the Subaru Outback towing capacity is essential for a safe and enjoyable journey. This guide from Koeppel Subaru will walk you through the towing capabilities of various Subaru Outback models, helping you make informed decisions for all your towing needs.
The Evolution of the Subaru Outback and its Towing Prowess
The Subaru Outback has a rich history, evolving from a Legacy-derived station wagon into a distinct midsize crossover SUV. This evolution reflects Subaru's commitment to creating versatile vehicles that blend the comfort of a passenger car with the ruggedness of an SUV. Starting with the 2025 model year, the Outback has fully transitioned to being classified as a crossover SUV, featuring a boxier shape, a taller roofline, and an increased use of exterior body cladding, no longer sharing its platform with a sedan. This design choice was made to emphasize the vehicle's heightened profile and durability, appealing to a broader range of consumers who desire a more SUV-like appearance while retaining the attributes existing Outback buyers appreciate.
Throughout its generations, a consistent feature of most Outback wagon models has been standard all-wheel drive, providing confidence in diverse driving conditions, whether towing or simply navigating daily commutes. This fundamental capability lays the groundwork for the impressive Subaru Outback towing capacity across various model years.
Understanding Subaru Outback Towing Capacity by Engine and Model Year
The towing capacity of a Subaru Outback can vary significantly depending on the engine type and model year. Generally, the maximum towing capacity for a Subaru Outback equipped with trailer brakes can reach up to 3,500 pounds. For loads without trailer brakes, the maximum is typically 750kg, which is approximately 1,653 pounds. It is always recommended to consult your owner's manual or speak with experts at Koeppel Subaru to ensure your vehicle matches the specified towing ratings.
Here is a detailed breakdown of the Subaru Outback towing capacity across recent model years:
2025 Subaru Outback
· With the 2.5-liter Boxer four-cylinder engine which delivers 182 horsepower, the maximum towing capacity is 2,700 pounds.
· With the 2.4-liter Boxer turbocharged four-cylinder engine which delivers 260 horsepower, the maximum towing capacity increases to 3,500 pounds.
2024 Subaru Outback
· The 2.5-liter Boxer four-cylinder engine provides a maximum towing capacity of 2,700 pounds.
· The 2.4-liter Boxer turbocharged four-cylinder engine offers a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.
2022 to 2023 Subaru Outback
· Models with the 2.5-liter Boxer four-cylinder engine have a maximum towing capacity of 2,700 pounds.
· Models with the 2.4-liter Boxer turbocharged four-cylinder engine achieve a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.
2020 to 2021 Subaru Outback
· The 2.5-liter Boxer four-cylinder engine offers a maximum towing capacity of 2,700 pounds.
· The 2.4-liter Boxer turbocharged four-cylinder engine, introduced in the 2020 model year redesign, boosts the maximum towing capacity to 3,500 pounds.
2018 to 2019 Subaru Outback
· Both the 2.5-liter Boxer four-cylinder engine with 175 horsepower and the 3.6-liter Boxer six-cylinder engine with 256 horsepower had a maximum towing capacity of 2,700 pounds.
2016 to 2017 Subaru Outback
· The 2.5-liter Boxer four-cylinder engine with 175 horsepower provided a maximum towing capacity of 2,700 pounds.
· The 3.6-liter Boxer six-cylinder engine with 256 horsepower increased the maximum towing capacity to 3,000 pounds.
2014 to 2015 Subaru Outback
· The 2.5-liter Boxer four-cylinder engine with 173 or 175 horsepower offered a maximum towing capacity of 2,700 pounds.
· The 3.6-liter Boxer six-cylinder engine with 256 horsepower had a maximum towing capacity of 3,000 pounds.
It is important to note that the past six-cylinder engine, often identified by a "3.6R" badge, was replaced by the higher power turbo engine in 2020, leading to an increase in the maximum Subaru Outback towing capacity for those models. All Outback SUVs from 2014 to 2025 with the naturally aspirated SUBARU BOXER option maintain a 2,700-pound maximum towing capacity.
Safe Towing Practices
Beyond understanding the Subaru Outback towing capacity and necessary equipment, practicing safe towing is paramount. The Outback lineup has consistently earned IIHS Top Safety Pick awards since 2010, indicating a strong commitment to safety. However, safe towing ultimately relies on the driver. Here are some key tips for secure and confident Subaru Outback towing:
· Understand Your Trailer Trajectory: When reversing with a trailer, turning the steering wheel left will cause the rear of the trailer to move left. Practice in a safe, private area to become comfortable with this dynamic.
· Use Your Engine to Slow Down: Added weight from a trailer can strain your brakes, especially on inclines. Utilize downshifting to help slow your vehicle and reduce reliance on brakes, preserving their performance.
· Maintain Safe Distances: The increased momentum of a towed load requires more stopping distance. Allow extra space between your Outback and the vehicle ahead to ensure you can stop safely.
· Inspect Your Outback and Trailer: Before and after each trip, perform a quick check of your engine oil, wiring harness, and brakes for any signs of damage. Also, inspect the electrical components of your trailer hitch.
· Talk to Professionals: If you have questions about hitching or proper towing techniques, do not hesitate to contact a dealership. The technicians at Koeppel Subaru are ready to provide guidance and ensure your peace of mind.
Where to Buy a Subaru Outback in Queens, New York Area?
You can buy the latest Subaru Outback models in Queens, NY at Koeppel Subaru!
And for all your Subaru Outback towing capacity questions and needs, our dealership is your trusted resource in the Queens, Manhattan, Brooklyn, Staten Island, Bronx, Westchester and Long Island, NY areas. As a family-owned business serving New York’s automotive needs since 1937, we pride ourselves on treating every customer like family.
Our dedicated sales staff can help you browse our new inventory, including the latest 2025 Subaru Outback models, and assist with trade ins or financing options. Our top trained technicians in the service center are equipped to handle all your maintenance and repair needs, from installing genuine Subaru accessories like trailer hitches and ball mounts, to performing routine checks on your vehicle’s components. We offer a comprehensive car buying experience that includes service, car repair, auto parts, accessories, and financing solutions.
