2025 Subaru Ascent Towing Capacity
The Subaru Ascent towing capacity sets the stage for outings that go beyond just carrying passengers. This family-sized SUV boasts a max towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Combined with the all-weather capability of standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, a generous 8.7 inches of ground clearance, and Trailer Stability Assist, the Ascent is ready to be your ultimate adventure companion.
Curious how towing performance and cargo space change between trims, or how the Ascent has grown through the years? The Peoria Subaru team has put this page together to guide you through a detailed look at towing specs, engineering components, storage volume, and the evolution of this three-row SUV built for life on the move.
2025 Subaru Ascent Towing Capacity by Trim & Engine
The 2025 Subaru Ascent showcases a versatile lineup of eight trim levels, each featuring standard Signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, three rows of seating, and options for seven- or eight-passenger configurations on select variants. Dive into the specifications and towing metrics for each Ascent SUV below:
Premium 8-Passenger / 7-Passenger
- Max Towing Capacity: 5,000 pounds1
- Engine: 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder
- Output: 260 horsepower / 277 pound-feet of torque
- Transmission: Lineartronic CVT
- Drivetrain: AWD
- Curb Weight: 4,449 pounds (8-passenger) / 4,433 pounds (7-passenger)
Onyx Edition 7-Passenger
- Max Towing Capacity: 5,000 pounds1
- Engine: 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder
- Output: 260 horsepower / 277 pound-feet of torque
- Transmission: Lineartronic CVT
- Drivetrain: AWD
- Curb Weight: 4,533 pounds
Limited 8-Passenger / 7-Passenger
- Max Towing Capacity: 5,000 pounds1
- Engine: 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder
- Output: 260 horsepower / 277 pound-feet of torque
- Transmission: Lineartronic CVT
- Drivetrain: AWD
- Curb Weight: 4,581 (8-passenger) / 4,597 pounds (7-passenger)
Limited Bronze Edition 7-Passenger
- Max Towing Capacity: 5,000 pounds1
- Engine: 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder
- Output: 260 horsepower / 277 pound-feet of torque
- Transmission: Lineartronic CVT
- Drivetrain: AWD
- Curb Weight: 4,581 pounds
Touring 7-Passenger
- Max Towing Capacity: 5,000 pounds1
- Engine: 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder
- Output: 260 horsepower / 277 pound-feet of torque
- Transmission: Lineartronic CVT
- Drivetrain: AWD
- Curb Weight: 4,590 pounds
Onyx Edition Touring 7-Passenger
- Max Towing Capacity: 5,000 pounds1
- Engine: 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder
- Output: 260 horsepower / 277 pound-feet of torque
- Transmission: Lineartronic CVT
- Drivetrain: AWD
- Curb Weight: 4,588 pounds
Because every 2025 Subaru Ascent in the series is outfitted with a standard 2.4-liter turbocharged SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder engine, all eight trims have the muscle to tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. That means no matter if you're chasing weekend escapes, hauling gear for a family trip, or towing a travel trailer to the lake, you can choose the iteration that fits your goals - without ever compromising on horsepower, torque, or dynamic handling.
Subaru Ascent Towing Capacity by Year
Since launching in 2018, the Subaru Ascent has proven itself capable of hitching up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. In its earlier years, however, towing ability depended on the trim – most notably, the now-retired Base model could only manage 2,000 pounds.1
By 2025, Subaru reshaped the lineup, retiring the Base and making the Premium the new entry point. The result? Every variant now brings the full 5,000-pound1 Subaru Ascent towing capacity to the table.
| Model Year | Generation | Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain | Max. Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Second | 2.4L Turbo SUBARU BOXER 4-cyl | Lineartronic CVT | AWD | 5,000 lbs1 |
| 2024 | Second | 2.4L Turbo SUBARU BOXER 4-cyl | Lineartronic CVT | AWD |
|
| 2022 | First | 2.4L Turbo SUBARU BOXER 4-cyl | Lineartronic CVT | AWD |
|
| 2021 | First | 2.4L Turbo SUBARU BOXER 4-cyl | Lineartronic CVT | AWD |
|
| 2020 | First | 2.4L Turbo SUBARU BOXER 4-cyl | Lineartronic CVT | AWD |
|
| 2019 | First | 2.4L Turbo SUBARU BOXER 4-cyl | Lineartronic CVT | AWD |
|
What Can the 2025 Subaru Ascent Tow?
Up to 5,000 pounds1 of pulling power means you can hitch an ATV for a spontaneous off-road excursion, a boat for a sunrise fishing trip, or a camper packed with supplies for exploring National Parks near and far. Wherever your plans lead, the Ascent makes it possible with the ability to tow a number of items.
Campers
- Small to midsize travel trailers
- Teardrop trailers
- Pop-up campers
- A-frame hybrid trailers
Watercraft
- Aluminum fishing boats
- Jet Skis
- Small pontoon boats
- Inflatable or lightweight boats
Recreational Vehicles
- ATVs
- UTVs / side-by-sides
- Dirt bikes/motorcycles
- Small snowmobiles
Trailers
- Single-axle utility trailers
- Landscape trailers
- Equipment trailers
- Cargo trailers
- Tilt trailers
Always check the weight of the item you plan to haul to ensure it does not exceed the top-end Subaru Ascent towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.1 Surpassing the tow limit can affect vehicle performance, safety, and handling.
2025 Subaru Ascent Tow Package & Features
The 2025 Subaru Ascent does not come with a factory-installed tow package, but it's easily capable of reaching its peak towing potential of 5,000 pounds.1 By equipping the available Class III trailer hitch - which showcases a two-inch receiver, wiring harness, and protective cover - drivers can unlock the three-row SUV's full towing prowess.
Other standard components that enhance towing include:
- Trailer Stability Assist: Monitors trailer sway and automatically applies braking to select wheels, keeping you anchored and in command on every tow.
- Hill Descent Control: Holds your speed steady on steep declines, giving you extra confidence when towing through rugged landscapes.
- Vehicle Dynamics Control: Constantly monitors steering, braking, and road conditions to ensure your Ascent remains composed under load.
- Traction Control System: Detects wheel slip and applies braking where needed, maintaining grip even when hauling heavy equipment.
- Active Torque Vectoring: Works with Vehicle Dynamics Control to brake the inside front wheel, sharpening cornering, steering precision, and overall maneuverability while trailering.
Even when towing isn't on the agenda, the Subaru Ascent opens the door to a number of activities with a range of optional accessories. Equip a Thule® crossbar set, haul up to four bikes with a carrier, pack extra luggage in a rooftop cargo box, or pitch a rooftop tent for a spontaneous night under the stars, transforming your 2025 Ascent into a versatile adventure machine. Shop these items at our Subaru dealer in Peoria, AZ.
How Subaru Ascent Signature Symmetrical AWD Enhances Towing
As mentioned above, every Ascent comes standard with the renowned Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive setup. While some would not necessarily associate this with towing, this AWD platform actually contributes greatly to a safe haul. Here's why:
Better Traction When Pulling a Load
Because power is continuously sent to all four wheels, the Ascent maintains a stronger hold on the road, especially useful if you're towing on wet pavement, dirt roads, waterside ramps, or uneven surfaces.
Balanced Power Distribution
Symmetrical AWD distributes torque evenly across the drivetrain. This balance makes the SUV more predictable when towing and reduces overall mechanical strain.
Confidence on Steeper Grades
Whether launching a small motorboat or transporting a camping rig through hilly terrain, AWD helps the Ascent secure traction and strives to prevent the front or rear wheels from spinning under load.
Works With Tow-Focused Driver Aids
AWD works in harmony with systems like Trailer Stability Assist, Vehicle Dynamics Control, and Hill Descent Control to provide even more composure and protection when towing.
Which Subaru Ascent is Right For You?
As established, the performance specs are identical across the 2025 collection, making the Subaru Ascent tow rating consistent at a maximum of 5,000 pounds1 for every trim. So, with towing taken care of, the real question becomes: what do you need most from your midsize SUV? Is it passenger room, advanced amenities, cargo versatility, or fuel efficiency?
Seating
The Premium and Limited trims stand out by offering an eight-passenger configuration, providing the top seating capacity along with a reclining second-row 60/40-split flat-folding seatback. For those seeking the most interior space, the Premium provides the highest first- and second-row headroom at 41.2 inches and 40 inches, respectively, plus a total passenger volume of 153.2 cubic feet (150.2 cubic feet on remaining trims).
Cargo
When it comes to storage, the Premium leads again with a maximum cargo volume of 75.6 cubic feet and 43.5 cubic feet behind the second row. Other trims remain competitive, providing up to 72.8 cubic feet of storage area and 42.1 cubic feet behind the second row.
Amenities
If you're looking for particularly upscale touches, consider the Onyx Edition, featuring a heated steering wheel. True luxury steps in with the Limited model. From the Limited onward (with the exception of the Limited Bronze Edition variant), drivers enjoy a Harman Kardon® premium audio system, the standard 11.6-inch Multimedia System with Navigation, leather-trimmed upholstery, and heated second-row outboard seats.
Miles Per Gallon
Fuel-conscious drivers will appreciate that the Premium, in both its seven- or eight-passenger setup, achieves the best gas mileage, with an EPA-estimated 20/26 MPG (City/Highway).2 The remaining variants aren't far behind, with an EPA-estimated 19/25 MPG (City/Highway).2
Exterior Style
The Limited Bronze Edition makes a bold statement with standard 20-inch bronze metallic alloy wheels, matching exterior accent trim, and StarTex upholstery with bronze contrast stitching. The Onyx Edition Touring elevates sophistication with daring black alloy wheels, a black grille, and refined exterior accents. Both combine the top-tier technology and premium cabin materials for a standout presence on the road.
From fuel economy to leather-trimmed seats to bronze elements, you can select the 2025 Subaru Ascent that fits your family's needs without compromising towing proficiency. We invite you to schedule a test drive at Peoria Subaru to make your final choice in person.
Experience the 2025 Subaru Ascent Today!
As the largest SUV in our new Subaru inventory, the 2025 Ascent commands attention in the SUV segment. Turbocharged muscle, Symmetrical AWD, and three rows of seating combine with up to 5,000 pounds1 of towing capacity to ensure you can carry your crew, your essentials, and your next excursion - wherever the road may lead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Subaru Ascent good for towing?
Yes, as the largest Subaru SUV, the 2025 Ascent delivers a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds1 across every trim level. This strength makes it easy to haul everything from small to midsize campers to fishing boats, ATVs, personal watercraft, dirt bikes, motorcycles, and utility trailers. Inside follows suit with seating for up to eight passengers and a 75.6 cubic feet max cargo volume.
Can a Subaru Ascent tow a travel trailer?
Yes, with its 5,000-pound max towing capacity,1 the 2025 Subaru Ascent can pull a wide variety of travel trailers, including teardrop models, A-frame campers, lightweight and ultralight travel trailers, pop-up campers, and smaller off-road travel trailers. In addition, the Ascent is able to tow numerous traditional single-axle utility trailers designed for both work and recreation.
How does AWD on the Subaru Ascent help with towing?
The standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive in the 2025 Subaru Ascent enhances towing by improving traction, anchoring, and responsiveness. By perpetually sending power to all four wheels, the drivetrain helps retain grip on slippery pavement, gravel paths, and sloped boat launches while keeping the vehicle more stable when a trailer is being pulled from behind. It also works seamlessly with features like Trailer Stability Assist to make transporting safer.
1Maximum towing capacity varies by trim level. Trailer brakes may be needed. See your retailer for details.
2EPA fuel economy estimates. Actual mileage will vary with driving conditions and your vehicle's condition.
