If you're planning to tow a camper, boat, utility trailer, or outdoor gear with a Subaru Outback, understanding its towing capacity is essential before you hitch up.

The Subaru Outback towing capacity ranges from 2,700 to 3,500 pounds, depending on the engine and trim. Standard configurations are rated for up to 2,700 pounds, while turbocharged XT and Wilderness configurations can tow up to 3,500 pounds. Subaru's current specifications confirm a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds on qualifying Outback trims. Subaru's official towing specifications confirm that towing capacity varies by Outback configuration. 

Subaru Outback Towing Capacity at a Glance

Here's a quick comparison of the Outback configurations covered in this guide:

Important: Towing ratings can vary by model year and configuration. Always verify the exact rating for the specific Outback you're considering. Subaru's official owner resources allow you to look up information by VIN or vehicle.

How Much Can a Subaru Outback Tow?

A Subaru Outback can tow up to 3,500 pounds, but not every version has that rating.

The standard 2.5L naturally aspirated engine has a maximum towing capacity of 2,700 pounds. The 2.4L turbocharged engine raises the maximum to 3,500 pounds on applicable configurations.

If you're shopping for a used model, compare used Subaru Outback models to see which engine and trim best match your towing needs. 

 

 

That difference matters if you're planning to tow something substantial. A standard Outback can handle many lightweight trailers and recreational loads, while the turbocharged models provide additional capacity for campers, boats, and other heavier trailers.

2.5L Engine: Up to 2,700 Pounds

The standard 2.5L engine is suited to lighter towing needs.

Typical uses include:

• Small utility trailers

• Bike trailers

• Lightweight kayak or canoe trailers

• Small landscaping or yard-work trailers

• Compact pop-up campers

For occasional towing, the 2.5L engine can provide enough capability without paying for a turbocharged configuration you may not need.

2.4L Turbo Engine: Up to 3,500 Pounds

The 2.4L turbocharged engine increases the Outback's maximum towing capacity to 3,500 pounds.

The additional torque is particularly useful when towing on hills, accelerating onto highways, or carrying a heavier trailer.

Turbocharged configurations include the XT lineup and Wilderness models covered in this guide.

Subaru Outback XT Towing Capacity

The Subaru Outback XT towing capacity is 3,500 pounds on applicable XT configurations.

XT models combine the turbocharged engine with features intended to provide additional performance under load. Earlier Outback XT specifications include:

• 260 horsepower

• 277 lb-ft of torque

• CVT with an 8-speed manual mode

• Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive

For drivers who frequently tow a camper, boat, or heavier utility trailer, the XT configuration provides more capacity than standard 2,700-pound configurations.

The key advantage isn't simply horsepower. Extra torque can make it easier to accelerate, maintain speed, and climb grades while towing.

If the turbocharged configuration fits your towing needs, you can also compare Subaru Outback models before choosing a used vehicle. 

Subaru Outback Wilderness Towing Capacity

 

 

The Subaru Outback Wilderness towing capacity is 3,500 pounds, matching the higher-rated XT models.

What makes the Wilderness different is its focus on off-road capability.

The Wilderness adds features such as:

• Up to 9.5 inches of ground clearance

• Dual-function X-MODE on applicable model years

• All-terrain tires

• Full-size spare tire

• Off-road-focused equipment

The current Outback continues to offer up to 9.5 inches of ground clearance, while Subaru lists a 3,500-pound towing capacity on the Wilderness and qualifying XT trims.

These features can be useful if your towing trips involve unpaved roads, campsites, trailheads, or boat launches.

If you mostly tow on paved roads, however, you may not need the additional off-road equipment.

Can a Subaru Outback Tow a Camper?

Yes, a Subaru Outback can tow a camper, provided the camper's fully loaded weight stays within the vehicle's towing and tongue-weight limits.

The standard 2,700-pound configuration is better suited to smaller campers, while the 3,500-pound turbocharged models provide more room for compact travel trailers.

Campers Suitable for a 2,700-Pound Rating

Potential options include:

• Small teardrop trailers

• Compact pop-up campers

• Lightweight travel trailers

• Other campers that remain comfortably below the vehicle's rated capacity when fully loaded

Campers Suitable for a 3,500-Pound Rating

The higher-capacity turbocharged models can accommodate larger options, such as:

• Larger pop-up campers

• Small travel trailers

• Compact hybrid campers

However, don't compare the vehicle's towing capacity only with a trailer's advertised dry weight.

Water, propane, food, camping equipment, batteries, clothing, and other cargo all add weight. A trailer advertised at 3,400 pounds could weigh substantially more once loaded.

What Is Included in a Subaru Outback Towing Package?

A properly rated towing setup is just as important as the vehicle's engine.

Depending on the configuration, key components can include:

• Hitch receiver: Provides the connection between the vehicle and trailer.

• Wiring harness: Connects trailer lighting and signals.

• Tongue-weight capacity: The downward force the trailer places on the hitch.

• Trailer brake controller: May be appropriate or legally required for certain trailer weights, depending on applicable regulations.

Subaru's current accessory information lists its genuine Outback trailer hitch with different towing and tongue-weight ratings depending on the trim, including 3,500 pounds/350 pounds for XT and Wilderness configurations and 2,700 pounds/270 pounds for applicable standard trims.

Before towing, confirm the hitch, wiring, brakes, and other equipment are properly rated for your specific Outback and trailer.

Is the Subaru Outback Good for Towing?

 

 

The Subaru Outback can be a practical towing vehicle when the trailer is appropriately matched to its rated capacity.

The standard engine makes sense for drivers who occasionally tow lightweight loads. The turbocharged XT and Wilderness models are better suited to drivers who regularly tow heavier trailers or want additional towing performance.

Your decision should come down to:

• How much you plan to tow

• How frequently you tow

• Whether you drive on highways or rough terrain

• How much cargo you carry

• Whether you need the additional capacity of the turbo engine

Instead of automatically choosing the highest-rated trim, match the vehicle to your actual towing requirements.

What Should You Check Before Towing a Subaru Outback?

Before purchasing or towing an Outback, check these five items.

1. Confirm the Exact Towing Rating

Don't assume every Outback has the same towing capacity. Check the model year, engine, trim, and owner's manual.

2. Calculate the Trailer's Loaded Weight

Use the trailer's real operating weight, including cargo, fluids, propane, batteries, and equipment.

3. Check Tongue Weight

A trailer can be below the maximum towing capacity while still exceeding the vehicle's tongue-weight limit.

4. Inspect the Hitch and Wiring

If you're buying a used Outback, inspect the hitch receiver, electrical connections, mounting points, and visible wiring for damage or corrosion.

5. Check Recalls and Vehicle History

Before purchasing a used Outback, review applicable recalls and examine the vehicle's history and maintenance records.

You can use the NHTSA recall lookup tool to check for applicable safety recalls before purchasing a used vehicle. NHTSA allows consumers to search for recalls using a VIN or other vehicle information. 

You should also confirm that any aftermarket towing equipment was installed correctly.

Should You Buy a Subaru Outback for Towing?

The answer depends on what you plan to tow.

A standard 2.5L Outback with a 2,700-pound rating can make sense for light recreational and utility towing. If you need more capacity, the 3,500-pound turbocharged XT and Wilderness models are better choices.

If you're shopping for a used Outback, pay attention to more than towing capacity. Mileage, maintenance history, previous use, accident history, condition, and the specific equipment installed on the vehicle can all affect whether it's a good purchase.

What About Buying a Used Outback for Towing?

A used Outback can be a practical choice for towing, but its condition matters.

If you're comparing used options, browse available Subaru vehicles and narrow your search based on model, condition, and towing requirements. 

Before buying, inspect:

• Hitch receiver and mounting points

• Trailer wiring

• Tires and brakes

• Engine and transmission condition

• Suspension components

• Maintenance history

• Accident or damage history

• Vehicle mileage

• Open recalls

A vehicle that has regularly towed heavy loads may have experienced more wear than a similar Outback used primarily for commuting.

That doesn't automatically make it a bad purchase, but it makes a thorough inspection and vehicle-history review especially important.

Is a Turbo Subaru Outback Worth It for Towing?

If towing is a major reason you're buying the Outback, the turbocharged engine can be worth considering because it increases the maximum rating from 2,700 to 3,500 pounds on applicable configurations.

The extra capacity gives you more flexibility when choosing a camper, boat, or utility trailer.

If you rarely tow and your trailer is comfortably below 2,700 pounds, the standard engine may be sufficient.

The best choice depends on your actual trailer weight rather than simply choosing the most powerful engine.

Final Takeaway

The Subaru Outback towing capacity ranges from 2,700 to 3,500 pounds, making it suitable for a variety of lightweight and moderate towing applications.

Choose the standard configuration if you mainly need to tow bikes, small utility trailers, kayaks, or compact campers. Choose a turbocharged XT or Wilderness if you need the additional 3,500-pound capacity for a camper, boat, or heavier trailer.

Most importantly, don't base your decision on the maximum towing number alone. Check your exact model year, engine, trim, hitch equipment, tongue-weight limit, and the trailer's fully loaded weight.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum Subaru Outback towing capacity?

The maximum Subaru Outback towing capacity is 3,500 pounds on qualifying configurations. Standard configurations can be rated for up to 2,700 pounds, depending on model year and trim. Subaru's current specifications list 3,500 pounds for the Wilderness and qualifying XT trims.

Can a Subaru Outback tow a camper?

Yes. A Subaru Outback can tow a camper when the camper's fully loaded weight and tongue weight remain within the vehicle's limits. Smaller campers are better suited to the 2,700-pound configuration, while higher-rated turbocharged models provide up to 3,500 pounds of capacity.

What is the Subaru Outback XT towing capacity?

The Subaru Outback XT towing capacity is up to 3,500 pounds on qualifying XT configurations.

What is the Subaru Outback Wilderness towing capacity?

The Subaru Outback Wilderness towing capacity is 3,500 pounds. Its advantage over other Outback configurations is its additional off-road equipment rather than a higher maximum towing rating.

Can a Subaru Outback tow a boat?

Yes, provided the boat and trailer's fully loaded weight stays within the Outback's towing and tongue-weight limits. The 3,500-pound configurations provide more capacity for heavier boat-and-trailer combinations.

Is the Subaru Outback good for towing?

The Outback can be a good choice for light to moderate towing when the trailer is appropriately matched to the vehicle. Depending on configuration, towing capacity ranges from 2,700 to 3,500 pounds.