3,000 lbs
See article
Factory option
Class II
The Subaru Outback was introduced for the 1995 model year and is known for combining car-like driving manners with increased ground clearance, standard all-wheel drive, and wagon/SUV versatility.
What is the towing capacity of the 2018 Subaru Outback?
The 2018 Subaru Outback has a maximum towing capacity of 3,000 pounds.
Towing capacity varies by engine, drivetrain, and trim level.
Contents
How Much Can the 2018 Subaru Outback Tow?
The 2018 Subaru Outback can tow up to 3,000 pounds when equipped with the optional factory tow package.
Your actual towing capacity depends on your specific engine and trim level. You can always reach out to your local Subaru dealership to confirm towing specs for your specific vehicle.
2018 Subaru Outback Towing Capacity by Trim Level
Here are the towing capacities for each trim level of the 2018 Subaru Outback:
| Trim | Towing Capacity |
|---|---|
| 2.5i | 2,700 lbs |
| 2.5i Premium | 2,700 lbs |
| 2.5i Limited | 2,700 lbs |
| 2.5i Touring | 2,700 lbs |
| 3.6R Limited | 3,000 lbs |
| 3.6R Touring | 3,000 lbs |
Towing Capacity by Engine
2.5-liter boxer four-cylinder engine
The 2.5-liter four-cylinder produces 175 horsepower and can tow up to 2,700 pounds. This engine is standard on the base 2.5i, Premium, Limited, and Touring trim levels.
3.6-liter 6-cylinder BOXER engine
The 3.6-liter six-cylinder produces 256 horsepower and can tow up to 3,000 pounds. This engine is available on the 3.6R Limited and 3.6R Touring models.
| Engine | HP | Max Tow |
|---|---|---|
| 2.5-liter boxer four-cylinder | 175 hp | 2,700 lbs |
| 3.6-liter 6-cylinder BOXER engine | 256 hp | 3,000 lbs |
2018 Subaru Outback Payload Capacity
Payload data is not available for this vehicle.
Payload refers to the maximum weight you can carry inside the vehicle, including passengers and cargo.
2018 Subaru Outback Tow Package
Does the 2018 Subaru Outback have a tow package?
Yes, the 2018 Subaru Outback offers a factory tow package as an option.
The tow package is required to achieve the maximum towing capacity ratings.
What class hitch does the 2018 Subaru Outback use?
The 2018 Subaru Outback uses a Class II trailer hitch rated to 3,500 pounds. Standard ball sizes are 1-7/8″ or 2″.
- Fitment: This Class 3 Trailer Hitch Compatible with 2010-2019 Subaru Outback
- Feature: This heavy-duty steel trailer hitch features a durable black powder-coated finish, rated for a maximum gross trailer weight of 4000 lbs (4000 lbs with weight distribution) and a maximum tongue weight of 600 lbs (600 lbs with weight distribution)
- Function:This heavy-duty trailer hitch provides a standard 2-inch square receiver, offering versatile mounting for cargo racks, bike racks, tow hooks, and various other accessories. Constructed from robust steel and finished with a durable black powder coat, it delivers superior protection and exceptional resistance to rust, ensuring reliable performance and longevity even under demanding outdoor conditions and rigorous work environments
- Installation: Installation is straightforward using the included hardware; however, it is essential to thoroughly review the provided installation instructions before beginning, as they contain critical information and specific guidance. For optimal performance, professional installation is highly recommended
- Package: 1 x Trailer Hitch including instruction manual and mounting hardware
Can you install an aftermarket hitch on the 2018 Subaru Outback?
Yes, you can install an aftermarket Class II trailer hitch on the 2018 Subaru Outback. Make sure the hitch is rated for your intended towing weight.
2018 Subaru Outback trailer hitch installation
Installing a trailer hitch on the 2018 Subaru Outback typically takes 1-2 hours and requires basic hand tools. The process involves mounting the hitch receiver to existing frame attachment points.
What Can You Tow With a 2018 Subaru Outback?
Travel trailers and RVs
- Pop-up campers — 1,500-3,000 lbs, most models will fit within the 3,000 lb maximum.
- Small travel trailers — 2,500-5,000 lbs, only the lightest models under 3,000 lbs will fit.
- Mid-size travel trailers — 5,000-8,000 lbs, too heavy for the Outback’s 3,000 lb capacity.
- Large travel trailers — 8,000-14,000 lbs, far exceed the Outback’s towing capacity.
Boats
- Jon boats/small fishing boats — 300-800 lbs with trailer, well within the 3,000 lb capacity.
- Bass boats — 1,500-2,500 lbs, most models fit within the towing limit.
- Pontoon boats — 2,000-4,500 lbs, smaller pontoons under 3,000 lbs will work.
- Ski/wakeboard boats — 3,000-5,500 lbs, only the lightest models at 3,000 lbs or less.
- Cabin cruisers — 6,000+ lbs, too heavy for the Outback’s towing capacity.
Utility trailers
- Empty utility trailer — 800-1,500 lbs, easily handled by the Outback.
- Loaded landscaping trailer — 2,000-3,500 lbs, lighter loads under 3,000 lbs will work.
- Loaded equipment trailer — 3,000-5,000 lbs, only if total weight stays at 3,000 lbs or below.
Recreational equipment
- Single motorcycle with trailer — 800-1,500 lbs, well within the towing capacity.
- Single ATV with trailer — 1,200-1,800 lbs, fits comfortably within the limit.
- Two ATVs with trailer — 2,500-3,500 lbs, lighter combinations under 3,000 lbs will work.
- Personal watercraft with trailer — 1,000-1,800 lbs, fits within the towing capacity.
2018 Subaru Outback Towing Capacity vs Competitors
Here’s how the 2018 Subaru Outback compares to similar vehicles in its class:
| Vehicle | Max Tow |
|---|---|
| Toyota RAV4 (2018) | 3,500 lbs |
| Ford Escape (2018) | 3,500 lbs |
| Subaru Outback (2018) | 3,000 lbs |
| Mazda CX-5 (2018) | 2,000 lbs |
| Hyundai Tucson (2018) | 2,000 lbs |
| Honda CR-V (2018) | 1,500 lbs |
The Outback falls in the middle of the pack for towing capacity among compact SUVs.
2018 Subaru Models Towing Capacity
Here are the towing capacities for other 2018 Subaru models:
| Model | Max Towing Capacity |
|---|---|
| 2018 Subaru Ascent | 5,000 lbs |
| 2018 Subaru Outback | 3,000 lbs |
| 2018 Subaru Legacy | 2,700 lbs |
| 2018 Subaru Forester | 1,500 lbs |
| 2018 Subaru Crosstrek | 1,500 lbs |
| 2018 Subaru Impreza | 1,500 lbs |
Looking for a different year? See our Subaru Outback towing capacity guides:
2015 · 2016 · 2017 · 2018 · 2019 · 2020
Data Accuracy
Towing specifications are sourced from official Subaru documentation and may vary by specific configuration. Always verify towing capacity with your dealer or owner’s manual before towing.