3,500 lbs
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Factory option
Class II
The Subaru Outback was introduced in 1994 and is known for blending wagon-like utility with SUV-style capability, standard all-wheel drive, and a reputation for rugged versatility.
What is the towing capacity of the 2026 Subaru Outback?
The 2026 Subaru Outback has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.
The actual capacity varies by engine, drivetrain, and trim level.
Contents
How Much Can the 2026 Subaru Outback Tow?
The 2026 Subaru Outback can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. This maximum capacity depends on your specific trim level and engine configuration.
You can always reach out to your local Subaru dealership to confirm towing specs for your specific vehicle.
2026 Subaru Outback Towing Capacity by Trim Level
Here’s how towing capacity breaks down across all 2026 Subaru Outback trim levels.
| Trim | Towing Capacity |
|---|---|
| Premium | 2,700 lbs |
| Limited | 2,700 lbs |
| Touring | 2,700 lbs |
| Wilderness | 3,500 lbs |
| Limited XT | 3,500 lbs |
| Touring XT | 3,500 lbs |
Towing Capacity by Engine
2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER Engine
The 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER engine produces 180 hp and can tow up to 2,700 pounds.
This naturally aspirated engine comes standard on the Premium, Limited, and Touring trims.
Turbocharged 2.4-liter SUBARU BOXER Engine
The turbocharged 2.4-liter SUBARU BOXER engine produces 260 hp and can tow up to 3,500 pounds.
This turbocharged engine is available on the Wilderness, Limited XT, and Touring XT trims.
| Engine | HP | Max Tow |
|---|---|---|
| 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER engine | 180 hp | 2,700 lbs |
| Turbocharged 2.4-liter SUBARU BOXER engine | 260 hp | 3,500 lbs |
2026 Subaru Outback Payload Capacity
Payload data is not available for this vehicle.
Payload refers to the maximum weight of cargo, passengers, and gear you can carry inside the vehicle.
2026 Subaru Outback Tow Package
Does the 2026 Subaru Outback have a tow package?
Yes, the 2026 Subaru Outback offers a factory tow package as an option. The package includes the necessary hardware to safely tow trailers up to the vehicle’s maximum capacity.
The package comes with trailer hitch harness wiring (part number H771SAR000). The hitch ball is not included and the ball mount is sold separately.
What class hitch does the 2026 Subaru Outback use?
The 2026 Subaru Outback uses a Class II hitch rated for up to 3,500 pounds of towing capacity with a 2-inch receiver. Class II hitches typically use a 1-7/8 inch or 2 inch ball size depending on your trailer.
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Can you install an aftermarket hitch on the 2026 Subaru Outback?
Yes, aftermarket hitch options are available with up to 3,500 lbs towing capacity and 525 lbs tongue weight. These aftermarket solutions can provide the same towing capability as the factory option.
2026 Subaru Outback trailer hitch installation
Installing a trailer hitch on the 2026 Subaru Outback typically takes 1-2 hours and requires basic hand tools. Most aftermarket hitches are designed to bolt directly to existing mounting points without drilling.
What Can You Tow With a 2026 Subaru Outback?
Travel trailers and RVs
- Pop-up campers — Most pop-up campers weigh 1,500-3,000 lbs and fit within the Outback’s 3,500 lb capacity.
- Small travel trailers — Small travel trailers typically weigh 2,500-5,000 lbs, so only the lightest models will work with the Outback.
- Mid-size travel trailers — Mid-size travel trailers weigh 5,000-8,000 lbs and exceed the Outback’s towing capacity.
- Large travel trailers — Large travel trailers weigh 8,000-14,000 lbs and are far too heavy for the Outback.
Boats
- Jon boats/small fishing boats — These typically weigh 300-800 lbs with trailer and are well within the Outback’s capacity.
- Bass boats — Most bass boats weigh 1,500-2,500 lbs with trailer and can be towed by the Outback.
- Pontoon boats — Pontoon boats typically weigh 2,000-4,500 lbs with trailer, so smaller models fit within the 3,500 lb limit.
- Ski/wakeboard boats — These boats typically weigh 3,000-5,500 lbs with trailer, so only the smallest models work with the Outback.
- Cabin cruisers — Cabin cruisers weigh 6,000+ lbs with trailer and exceed the Outback’s towing capacity.
Utility trailers
- Empty utility trailer — Empty utility trailers weigh 800-1,500 lbs and are easily handled by the Outback.
- Loaded landscaping trailer — A loaded landscaping trailer weighs 2,000-3,500 lbs and fits within the Outback’s capacity.
- Loaded equipment trailer — Heavy equipment trailers weigh 3,000-5,000 lbs and may exceed the Outback’s 3,500 lb limit.
Recreational equipment
- Single motorcycle with trailer — A single motorcycle with trailer weighs 800-1,500 lbs and is well within the Outback’s capacity.
- Single ATV with trailer — One ATV with trailer typically weighs 1,200-1,800 lbs and can be towed safely.
- Two ATVs with trailer — Two ATVs with trailer weigh 2,500-3,500 lbs and fit right at the Outback’s maximum capacity.
- Personal watercraft with trailer — A jet ski or PWC with trailer weighs 1,000-1,800 lbs and is easily handled by the Outback.
2026 Subaru Outback Towing Capacity vs Competitors
Here’s how the 2026 Subaru Outback compares to other midsize SUVs in terms of towing capacity.
| Vehicle | Max Tow |
|---|---|
| Honda Passport | 5,000 lbs |
| Toyota RAV4 | 3,500 lbs |
| Ford Edge | 3,500 lbs |
| Hyundai Santa Fe | 3,500 lbs |
| Nissan Murano | 1,500 lbs |
The Outback matches most competitors at 3,500 pounds but trails the Honda Passport’s 5,000-pound capacity.
Looking for a different year? See our Subaru Outback towing capacity guides:
Data Accuracy
We source our towing capacity specs from official manufacturer documentation and owner’s manuals. Actual towing capacity may vary based on vehicle configuration, optional equipment, and local regulations.
Always verify towing specifications with your dealer or owner’s manual before towing any trailer.