3,000 lbs
See article
No
Class II
The Subaru Forester was introduced in 1997 and is known for its standard all-wheel drive, car-like handling, and practical compact-SUV utility.
What is the towing capacity of the 2023 Subaru Forester?
The 2023 Subaru Forester can tow up to 3,000 pounds when properly equipped.
The capacity varies by engine, drivetrain, and trim level.
Contents
How Much Can the 2023 Subaru Forester Tow?
The 2023 Subaru Forester can tow up to 3,000 pounds. Most trim levels are rated for 1,500 pounds, with only the Wilderness trim achieving the maximum 3,000-pound capacity.
The actual towing capacity depends on your specific trim level, engine, and optional equipment. You can always reach out to your local Subaru dealership to confirm towing specs for your specific vehicle.
2023 Subaru Forester Towing Capacity by Trim Level
Here’s the towing capacity for each 2023 Subaru Forester trim level:
| Trim | Towing Capacity |
|---|---|
| Base | 1,500 lbs |
| Premium | 1,500 lbs |
| Sport | 1,500 lbs |
| Wilderness | 3,000 lbs |
| Limited | 1,500 lbs |
| Touring | 1,500 lbs |
Towing Capacity by Engine
The 2023 Subaru Forester offers one engine option across all trim levels.
2.5L SUBARU BOXER 4-cylinder Engine
182 hp, 1,500 lbs towing capacity. This naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine powers all Forester models except the Wilderness trim.
| Engine | HP | Max Tow |
|---|---|---|
| 2.5L SUBARU BOXER 4-cylinder | 182 hp | 1,500 lbs |
2023 Subaru Forester Payload Capacity
Payload data is not available for this vehicle. Payload refers to the maximum weight of passengers, cargo, and equipment that can be carried in the vehicle.
2023 Subaru Forester Tow Package
Does the 2023 Subaru Forester have a tow package?
No, the 2023 Subaru Forester does not come with a factory tow package.
What class hitch does the 2023 Subaru Forester use?
The 2023 Subaru Forester uses a Class II hitch rated to 3,500 lbs. Standard ball sizes are 1-7/8″ or 2″.
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Can you install an aftermarket hitch on the 2023 Subaru Forester?
Manufacturer-recommended towing accessories are available from the parts department. This allows you to add towing capability to your Forester with Subaru-approved components.
2023 Subaru Forester trailer hitch installation
Installing a hitch on the 2023 Forester requires mounting to the vehicle’s frame points. Most installations can be completed with basic tools and take 1-2 hours.
What Can You Tow With a 2023 Subaru Forester?
Travel trailers and RVs
- Pop-up campers — 1,500-3,000 lbs, fits within the Forester’s capacity depending on trim level.
- Small travel trailers — 2,500-5,000 lbs, exceeds capacity for most trims except the Wilderness which can handle some lighter models.
- Mid-size travel trailers — 5,000-8,000 lbs, exceeds the Forester’s maximum towing capacity.
- Large travel trailers — 8,000-14,000 lbs, exceeds the Forester’s maximum towing capacity.
Boats
- Jon boats/small fishing boats — 300-800 lbs with trailer, well within capacity for all trim levels.
- Bass boats — 1,500-2,500 lbs, fits most trim levels for lighter models, Wilderness can handle heavier ones.
- Pontoon boats — 2,000-4,500 lbs, only the Wilderness trim can handle lighter pontoon boats.
- Ski/wakeboard boats — 3,000-5,500 lbs, only the lightest models fit the Wilderness trim’s capacity.
- Cabin cruisers — 6,000+ lbs, exceeds the Forester’s maximum towing capacity.
Utility trailers
- Empty utility trailer — 800-1,500 lbs, fits all trim levels.
- Loaded landscaping trailer — 2,000-3,500 lbs, only fits the Wilderness trim for lighter loads.
- Loaded equipment trailer — 3,000-5,000 lbs, only the lightest loads fit the Wilderness trim.
Recreational equipment
- Single motorcycle with trailer — 800-1,500 lbs, fits all trim levels.
- Single ATV with trailer — 1,200-1,800 lbs, fits most trim levels for lighter models.
- Two ATVs with trailer — 2,500-3,500 lbs, only fits the Wilderness trim for lighter combinations.
- Personal watercraft with trailer — 1,000-1,800 lbs, fits most trim levels depending on specific weight.
2023 Subaru Forester Towing Capacity vs Competitors
Here’s how the 2023 Subaru Forester compares to its main competitors in towing capacity:
| Vehicle | Max Tow |
|---|---|
| 2023 Mazda CX-5 | 2,000 lbs |
| 2023 Honda CR-V | 1,500 lbs |
| 2023 Toyota RAV4 | 3,500 lbs |
| 2023 Nissan Rogue | 1,500 lbs |
| 2023 Hyundai Tucson | 2,000 lbs |
The Forester’s maximum capacity matches most competitors, though the RAV4 offers slightly more towing capability.
2023 Subaru Models Towing Capacity
Here’s how the 2023 Subaru Forester compares to other Subaru models:
| Model | Max Towing Capacity |
|---|---|
| 2023 Subaru Ascent | 5,000 lbs |
| 2023 Subaru Outback | 3,500 lbs |
| 2023 Subaru Forester | 3,000 lbs |
| 2023 Subaru Crosstrek | 1,500 lbs |
| 2023 Subaru Solterra | 0 lbs |
Looking for a different year? See our Subaru Forester towing capacity guides:
2020 · 2021 · 2022 · 2023 · 2024 · 2025
Data Accuracy
We source our towing specifications from official manufacturer documentation and owner’s manuals. Towing capacity may vary based on your specific vehicle configuration, so we recommend verifying these numbers with your dealer or owner’s manual before towing.