Subaru Forester Towing Capacity

Subaru Forester Specs

The 2021 Subaru Forester can tow up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped. That's enough to hitch a utility trailer, fishing boat, jet ski, or ATV to your SUV. To haul all that cargo, it runs on a 2.5L 4-cylinder SUBARU BOXER® engine that gets up to 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque.

The Forester's tow hitch also features a strong tongue weight of 176 pounds. On top of having all the power and strength you need, it also comes with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) to help get your cargo through all sorts of driving conditions.

Trailering Features

The 2021 Subaru Forester also offers the kind of features that can make towing easy for you. For example, a Rear-Vision Camera comes standard to help you line your tow hitch up with your trailer. Just put your SUV in reverse and the dashboard monitor will switch to a live picture of what's behind you.

You'll also have all the traction and stability you'll need to haul heavy cargo. In addition to AWD, the Forester features Vehicle Dynamics Control with a Traction Control System and Trailer Sway Assist. When these drivetrain functions work with Trailer Stability Assist, you can be confident that your cargo will stay balanced and perfectly in line with your SUV.

You can even tow a trailer up steep terrain with Hill Descent Control. It helps you bring your cargo back down at a safe, consistent speed. Plus, you'll have an extra set of eyes helping you change lanes while your trailer is attached, thanks to Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.

Cargo Capability

Feel free to load up the 2021 Subaru Forester with extra cargo too. Whether you have more gear or just a bunch of things that don't need their own trailer, this versatile SUV has you covered. For starters, it comes with a large trunk that includes an extra-wide tailgate.

To make packing up easier, it's available with a Power Rear Gate. You can also give yourself extra cargo room with the 60/40-split flat-folding rear seats. Plus, with a spacious cabin, you can always toss some bags on the floor or in the backseat too.

The Forester can even accommodate long cargo like lumber, a kayak, or your Christmas tree. Not only does it feature roof rails, but those rails include integrated tie-down points, so it's easy to tie things tightly.