Subaru Ascent Towing Capacity

Subaru Ascent Towing Capacity MaxTowingCapacity.com When it comes to finding a reliable and capable SUV for all your towing needs, the Subaru Ascent stands out from the crowd.

With its impressive towing capacity, this SUV is perfect for hauling trailers, boats, or even small campers.

In this blog article, we will delve into the details of the Subaru Ascent’s towing capacity, covering everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

Whether you’re planning a family vacation or embarking on an outdoor adventure, understanding the towing capabilities of the Subaru Ascent is crucial.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various aspects of the Subaru Ascent’s towing capacity. From its engine power and towing capabilities to its towing features and safety considerations, we’ll provide you with all the essential information to make the most out of your towing experience with the Subaru Ascent.

Understanding Towing Capacity

Before we dive into the specifics of the Subaru Ascent’s towing capacity, let’s first understand what towing capacity actually means.

Towing capacity refers to the maximum weight that a vehicle can safely tow. It is determined by several factors, including the vehicle’s engine power, transmission, suspension, and braking system.

Read More: Towing Capacity Subaru Baja

When it comes to the Subaru Ascent, its towing capacity is influenced by its robust design and engineering. This SUV is built on a strong and durable platform, allowing it to handle heavy loads with ease.

The Subaru Ascent’s towing capacity is also influenced by its engine options and towing features, which we will discuss in detail in the following sections.

Factors Affecting Towing Capacity

Several factors can impact the towing capacity of an SUV like the Subaru Ascent. These factors include:

• Engine Power: The engine plays a crucial role in determining the towing capacity. A more powerful engine can handle heavier loads.
• Transmission: The type of transmission, whether it’s a manual or automatic, can affect the vehicle’s towing capacity.
• Suspension: The suspension system of the vehicle needs to be strong enough to handle the additional weight of the trailer or camper being towed.
• Braking System: A reliable and efficient braking system is essential for safe towing. The braking system should be capable of stopping both the vehicle and the load being towed.
• Towing Accessories: The presence of towing accessories, such as a hitch, wiring harness, and trailer sway control, can also impact the towing capacity.

By considering these factors, you can have a better understanding of the towing capacity of the Subaru Ascent and ensure that you choose the right configuration for your towing needs.

Subaru Ascent Engine Power

The engine is a crucial component when it comes to towing capacity. The Subaru Ascent comes equipped with a robust powertrain that provides ample power for towing.

It offers a 2.4-liter turbocharged Boxer engine, which produces an impressive 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque.

The Boxer engine design, unique to Subaru, provides a low center of gravity and balanced weight distribution.

This design not only enhances the overall performance of the Subaru Ascent but also contributes to its towing capabilities.

The turbocharged engine ensures quick acceleration, making it easier to merge onto highways or navigate steep inclines while towing.

Choosing the Right Engine Configuration

When selecting a Subaru Ascent for towing purposes, it is essential to consider the engine configuration that best suits your needs.

The Subaru Ascent offers different trim levels, each with its own towing capacity. The base trim has a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds, while higher trims can tow up to an impressive 5,000 pounds.

If you plan on towing heavier loads, opting for a higher trim level with a more powerful engine is recommended.

The higher trim levels come with additional features and capabilities that enhance the towing experience, such as a larger radiator to handle increased engine heat and a heavy-duty transmission cooler to maintain optimal transmission performance.

Towing Features of the Subaru Ascent

Subaru understands the importance of providing towing-specific features to enhance the towing experience. The Subaru Ascent comes equipped with various towing features that contribute to its impressive towing capacity.

Trailer Stability Control

Trailer stability control is a vital feature that helps maintain stability while towing. The Subaru Ascent’s trailer stability control system detects any sway or instability in the trailer and applies the brakes selectively to individual wheels, helping to correct the trailer’s movement and ensure a safer towing experience.

Trailer Sway Control

Similar to trailer stability control, the trailer sway control feature helps mitigate any sway or fishtailing that may occur while towing.

It applies the brakes and adjusts engine torque to help bring the trailer back in line with the vehicle, providing enhanced stability and safety on the road.

Towing Assist Systems

The Subaru Ascent also offers towing assist systems to make the towing process more convenient and efficient. These systems include a rear-vision camera that provides a clear view of the trailer hitch, making it easier to align the hitch with the trailer.

Additionally, the Ascent features an available 180-degree front-view monitor that offers a wide-angle view of the front of the vehicle, aiding in maneuvering tight spaces or navigating tricky terrains while towing.

Performance While Towing

It’s not just about the towing capacity; how well the vehicle performs while towing is equally important. The Subaru Ascent delivers impressive performance while towing, ensuring a smooth and controlled experience.

Acceleration and Power Delivery

The Subaru Ascent’s turbocharged Boxer engine provides ample power and torque for quick acceleration while towing.

The turbocharging technology optimizes power delivery, ensuring that the engine responds promptly to throttle inputs.

This enables the Subaru Ascent to handle inclines and merge onto highways effortlessly, even with a trailer in tow.

Braking and Stability

When towing heavy loads, effective braking is crucial for safety. The Subaru Ascent features a responsive braking system that provides confident stopping power, both for the vehicle and the load being towed.

The trailer stability control and trailer sway control systems also contribute to enhanced stability while braking, minimizing any potential sway or fishtailing.

Fuel Efficiency

While towing, fuel efficiency can be a concern. The Subaru Ascent offers impressive fuel efficiency for its class, even when towing.

This is thanks to its efficient engine design and advanced technologies, such as direct fuel injection and a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which optimize fuel consumption. However, it’s important to note that towing heavier loads will naturally have a greater impact on fuel efficiency.

Tips for Optimizing Performance

To optimize the performance of your Subaru Ascent while towing, consider the following tips:

• Ensure proper weight distribution by loading the trailer correctly, placing heavier items low and towards the front.
• Check and adjust tire pressure on both the vehicle and the trailer to ensure optimal traction and stability.
• Engage the Subaru Ascent’s X-Mode, if available, to optimize traction and stability on challenging terrains.
• Maintain regular servicing and maintenance to keep the vehicle in optimal condition.
• Practice safe driving habits, including maintaining a safe following distance and adjusting driving speed based on road conditions.

Following these tips will not only enhance the performance of your Subaru Ascent while towing but also contribute to a safer and more enjoyable towing experience.

Subaru Ascent Towing Packages

Subaru offers various towing packages that can further enhance the towing capabilities of the Ascent. These packages include essential towing accessories and equipment to optimize the towing experience.

Hitch

The Subaru Ascent can be equipped with a genuine Subaru trailer hitch, specifically designed for optimal towing performance. The hitch is custom-fit to the vehicle’s frame, ensuring a secure and reliable connection between the Subaru Ascent and the trailer.

Wiring Harness

A wiring harness is an essential component for towing, as it provides electrical connections between the Subaru Ascent and the trailer. It enables the operation of trailer lights, turn signals, and brake lights, ensuring proper visibility and safety while on the road.

Trailer Sway Control

While the Subaru Ascent already has a built-in trailer sway control system, additional trailer sway control accessories can be included in the towing package. These accessories further enhance the vehicle’s ability to mitigate trailer sway, providing an extra layer of safety and stability while towing.

Installation and Compatibility

When opting for a Subaru Ascent towing package, professional installation is recommended to ensure proper installation and compatibility with the vehicle. Subaru dealerships have certified technicians who can install the towing accessories correctly, ensuring optimal performance and safety.

Safety Considerations for Towing

Read More: 2015 Subaru Forester Towing Capacity

Towing requires careful attention to safety considerations, both for the driver and other road users. Understanding and following these safety guidelines is crucial for a safe and enjoyable towing experience with the Subaru Ascent.

Weight Distribution

Proper weight distribution is essential when towing with the Subaru Ascent. It helps maintain stability and control while on the road.

When loading the trailer, distribute the weight evenly, placing heavier items towards the front and lower to the ground.

This ensures that the weight is properly balanced between the trailer and the towing vehicle, minimizing the risk of swaying or loss of control.

Trailer Brakes

For trailers weighing over a certain threshold, it is recommended to have trailer brakes installed. Trailer brakes provide additional stopping power and help distribute the braking force evenly between the towing vehicle and the trailer. This enhances braking performance and reduces the strain on the towing vehicle’s braking system.

Maintenance and Inspections

Prior to any towing trip, it is crucial to conduct a thorough inspection of both the towing vehicle and the trailer. Check the tire pressure, ensure all lights are functioning correctly, and inspect the hitch and wiring connections for any signs of wear or damage.

Regular maintenance of the Subaru Ascent, including oil changes, brake inspections, and suspension checks, is important to ensure optimal performance while towing.

Safe Driving Practices

Safe driving practices are essential when towing with the Subaru Ascent. Maintain a safe following distance to allow for ample braking time and reaction time. Adjust your driving speed based on road and weather conditions, as well as the weight being towed.

Be mindful of turns, as the weight distribution may affect the turning radius. Additionally, avoid sudden maneuvers or aggressive driving behaviors that may compromise the stability of the towing setup.

Towing Capacities Across Subaru Ascent Trims

The Subaru Ascent is available in different trim levels, and the towing capacity can vary across these trims. Here is a breakdown of the towing capacities for each trim level of the Subaru Ascent:

Base Trim

The base trim of the Subaru Ascent offers a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds. This capacity is suitable for lighter loads, such as small utility trailers or lightweight campers.

Premium Trim

The Premium trim of the Subaru Ascent provides an increased towing capacity of 2,700 pounds. This allows for towing larger trailers or campers, providing more versatility for outdoor enthusiasts.

Limited Trim

The Limited trim of the Subaru Ascent boasts a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. This higher capacity makes it suitable for towing larger trailers, boats, or even mid-sized campers.

Touring Trim

The Touring trim, the highest trim level available for the Subaru Ascent, also has a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. This trim offers additional luxury features and enhancements, making it an excellent choice for those seeking both towing capabilities and premium amenities.

By considering the towing capacities across the Subaru Ascent trims, you can select the trim level that best suits your towing needs, ensuring that you have the necessary capacity to tow your desired load.

Tips for Safe Towing with the Subaru Ascent

While the Subaru Ascent offers impressive towing capabilities, practicing safe towing techniques is essential. Here are some tips to ensure safe towing with your Subaru Ascent:

Understand Weight Limits

Before embarking on a towing trip, familiarize yourself with the weight limits of your Subaru Ascent and adhere to them. Exceeding the recommended weight limits can compromise the vehicle’s performance and safety.

Use Proper Towing Accessories

Ensure that you have the appropriate towing accessories installed, such as a hitch and wiring harness. These accessories are designed specifically for the Subaru Ascent and contribute to safe towing.

Check Tire Pressure

Regularly check the tire pressure of both the towing vehicle and the trailer. Proper tire inflation is crucial for optimal traction and stability while towing.

Practice Trailer Maneuvers

Before hitting the road, practice maneuvering the trailer in a safe and open space. Familiarize yourself with how the trailer reacts to steering inputs and get comfortable with backing up and making turns.

Be Mindful of Braking Distance

Remember that the added weight of the trailer increases the braking distance. Allow for more distance between your vehicle and the one ahead to ensure safe stopping.

Monitor Engine Temperature

Keep an eye on the engine temperature gauge while towing. If the temperature starts to rise significantly, it may indicate an issue with the cooling system. In such cases, pull over and allow the engine to cool down before continuing.

Practice Defensive Driving

Follow defensive driving practices while towing. Be aware of other drivers around you, use turn signals well in advance, and maintain a safe speed that allows you to react to any sudden changes on the road.

Practice Weight Distribution

Ensure that the weight inside the trailer is properly distributed. Avoid placing excessive weight on one side, as it can cause instability and compromise the control of the towing setup.

Plan Ahead

Plan your route and stops ahead of time. Avoid congested areas or narrow roads that may be challenging to navigate while towing. Research rest areas or service stations that are suitable for towing vehicles and provide ample space for parking.

Stay Within Your Comfort Zone

If you’re new to towing, start with lighter loads and gradually work your way up to heavier loads. Gain experience and confidence before attempting to tow larger trailers or campers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the Subaru Ascent’s towing capacity:

What is the maximum towing capacity of the Subaru Ascent?

The maximum towing capacity of the Subaru Ascent is 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.

Do I need any additional towing equipment?

To maximize the towing capabilities of the Subaru Ascent, it is recommended to have a trailer hitch and a wiring harness installed. These accessories ensure a secure connection between the vehicle and the trailer, as well as enable proper functioning of trailer lights and signals.

Does towing affect fuel efficiency?

Towing heavier loads can have an impact on fuel efficiency. The added weight creates more resistance, which requires the engine to work harder. As a result, the vehicle may consume more fuel while towing compared to regular driving conditions.

Can the Subaru Ascent tow a boat or a camper?

Yes, the Subaru Ascent’s towing capacity makes it suitable for towing boats, campers, and trailers of various sizes. However, it is important to ensure that the weight of the load, including any passengers and cargo inside the vehicle, does not exceed the recommended towing capacity.

Is towing covered under the Subaru Ascent’s warranty?

While specific warranty details may vary, towing with the Subaru Ascent is generally covered under the vehicle’s warranty as long as it is within the recommended towing capacity and proper towing equipment is used.

Comparing Subaru Ascent with Other Towing SUVs

When considering the Subaru Ascent’s towing capacity, it is helpful to compare it with other popular SUVs in its class. Here’s how the Subaru Ascent stacks up against some of its competitors:

Subaru Ascent vs. Honda Pilot

The Subaru Ascent and the Honda Pilot have similar towing capacities, with both capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. However, the Subaru Ascent offers standard all-wheel drive, which provides enhanced traction and stability while towing.

Subaru Ascent vs. Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander has a slightly lower towing capacity than the Subaru Ascent, with a maximum capacity of 3,500 pounds. The Subaru Ascent’s higher towing capacity of 5,000 pounds gives it an advantage for those requiring more towing capabilities.

Subaru Ascent vs. Ford Explorer

Both the Subaru Ascent and the Ford Explorer offer similar towing capacities, with both capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds. However, the Subaru Ascent’s standard all-wheel drive system provides better traction and control while towing.

In conclusion, the Subaru Ascent offers impressive towing capacity, making it a reliable and capable SUV for all your towing needs. By understanding the various aspects of its towing capacity, engine power, towing features, and safety considerations, you can make an informed decision and enjoy a safe and enjoyable towing experience with your Subaru Ascent.

Read More: Towing Capacity of Subaru Outback 2014

Related video of Subaru Ascent Towing Capacity: A Comprehensive Guide

https://youtube.com/watch?v=9MzXJhuy-tw