5,000 lbs
See article
Yes
Class III
The Subaru Ascent was introduced for the 2019 model year as Subaru’s first three-row midsize SUV, and it is known for standard all-wheel drive, family-focused packaging, and a 5,000-pound towing capacity.
What is the towing capacity of the 2026 Subaru Ascent?
The 2026 Subaru Ascent can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
The actual capacity varies by engine, drivetrain, and trim level.
Contents
How Much Can the 2026 Subaru Ascent Tow?
The 2026 Subaru Ascent has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. This rating applies to most trim levels when equipped with the proper towing package.
The actual capacity depends on your specific trim level, engine, and how the vehicle is equipped. You can always reach out to your local Subaru dealership to confirm towing specs for your specific vehicle.
2026 Subaru Ascent Towing Capacity by Trim Level
Here’s how towing capacity breaks down across the 2026 Ascent lineup:
| Trim | Towing Capacity |
|---|---|
| Base | 2,000 lbs |
| Premium | 5,000 lbs |
| Onyx | 5,000 lbs |
| Limited | 5,000 lbs |
| Touring | 5,000 lbs |
Towing Capacity by Engine
2.4-liter Turbocharged SUBARU BOXER
Towing capacity: 5,000 pounds | Horsepower: 260 hp
This turbocharged engine is the only option for the 2026 Ascent and delivers strong pulling power across most trim levels.
| Engine | HP | Max Tow |
|---|---|---|
| 2.4-liter turbocharged SUBARU BOXER | 260 hp | 5,000 lbs |
2026 Subaru Ascent Payload Capacity
Payload data is not available for this vehicle.
Payload refers to the maximum weight of cargo and passengers you can carry inside the vehicle.
2026 Subaru Ascent Tow Package
Does the 2026 Subaru Ascent have a tow package?
Yes, the 2026 Subaru Ascent offers a factory tow package. The package includes a Class III trailer hitch.
What class hitch does the 2026 Subaru Ascent use?
The 2026 Subaru Ascent uses a Class III hitch with a 2-inch receiver. Class III hitches are rated to handle up to 8,000 pounds and use a standard 2-inch ball mount.
Can you install an aftermarket hitch on the 2026 Subaru Ascent?
Yes, but Subaru recommends using the official Subaru accessory hitch for best fit and performance. Aftermarket options are available from various manufacturers.
2026 Subaru Ascent trailer hitch installation
Installation typically takes 1-2 hours and requires basic hand tools. Most owners can handle the installation themselves or have it done at a dealership or hitch shop.
What Can You Tow With a 2026 Subaru Ascent?
Travel trailers and RVs
- Pop-up campers — typically weigh 1,500-3,000 lbs and fit well within the 5,000 lb capacity.
- Small travel trailers — weighing 2,500-5,000 lbs will work with most fitting at or near the weight limit.
- Mid-size travel trailers — at 5,000-8,000 lbs, only the smallest ones will fit within the capacity.
- Large travel trailers — weighing 8,000-14,000 lbs exceed the Ascent’s towing capacity.
Boats
- Jon boats/small fishing boats — at 300-800 lbs with trailer, these are well within capacity.
- Bass boats — typically 1,500-2,500 lbs and easily handled by the Ascent.
- Pontoon boats — weighing 2,000-4,500 lbs will mostly fit within the 5,000 lb limit.
- Ski/wakeboard boats — at 3,000-5,500 lbs, smaller ones will fit but larger ones may exceed capacity.
- Cabin cruisers — at 6,000+ lbs, these exceed the Ascent’s towing capacity.
Utility trailers
- Empty utility trailer — weighing 800-1,500 lbs leaves plenty of capacity for cargo.
- Loaded landscaping trailer — at 2,000-3,500 lbs, most configurations will fit within capacity.
- Loaded equipment trailer — weighing 3,000-5,000 lbs will fit but use most of the available capacity.
Recreational equipment
- Single motorcycle with trailer — at 800-1,500 lbs, easily within the towing capacity.
- Single ATV with trailer — weighing 1,200-1,800 lbs fits comfortably within limits.
- Two ATVs with trailer — at 2,500-3,500 lbs, well within the 5,000 lb capacity.
- Personal watercraft with trailer — weighing 1,000-1,800 lbs fits easily within capacity.
2026 Subaru Ascent Towing Capacity vs Competitors
Here’s how the Ascent compares to other three-row SUVs in its class:
| Vehicle | Max Tow |
|---|---|
| Ford Explorer | 5,600 lbs |
| Kia Telluride | 5,500 lbs |
| Honda Pilot | 5,000 lbs |
| Hyundai Palisade | 5,000 lbs |
| Toyota Grand Highlander | 5,000 lbs |
| Subaru Ascent | 5,000 lbs |
The Ascent matches most competitors but trails the Ford Explorer and Kia Telluride by 500-600 pounds.
2026 Subaru Models Towing Capacity
Here’s how the Ascent compares to other 2026 Subaru models:
| Model | Max Towing Capacity |
|---|---|
| 2026 Subaru Ascent | 5,000 lbs |
| 2026 Subaru Outback | 3,500 lbs |
| 2026 Subaru Forester | 1,500 lbs |
| 2026 Subaru Crosstrek | 1,500 lbs |
Looking for a different year? See our Subaru Ascent towing capacity guides:
2020 ·2021 ·2022 · 2023 · 2024 · 2025 · 2026
Data Accuracy
All specifications come from official manufacturer documentation and testing. Actual towing capacity may vary based on vehicle configuration, options, and condition.
Always verify specifications with your dealer or owner’s manual before towing.