As you've likely guessed, Subaru Outback towing capacity varies based on powertrain, two of which are available in the 2026 Outback lineup. This means you can choose the trim level that matches its trailering performance to your needs. While these Outback towing specs may not be the beastliest you've ever seen when it comes to towing, its two engine options are well-suited for leisure activities or small-business ventures.
Take home a Premium, Limited, or Touring trim level equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine if you plan to predominantly use your sport-ute for daily errands but want the ability to tote heavier DIY supplies like sand and mulch or outdoor gear like Jet Skis. This configuration commands 180 horsepower, 178 pound-feet of torque, and tows up to 2,700 pounds.1
If you choose a Wilderness, Limited XT, or Touring XT variant of the Subaru Outback, weight limits for trailering increase to 3,500 pounds1 and create opportunities to haul larger utility trailers or even midsize boats. This leap in Outback tow strength is made possible by the upper trims' 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder setup that unleashes 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque.
Subaru Outback towing capacity is determined by the SUV's two powertrain configurations, which tow 2,700 and 3,500 pounds, respectively.1
Now that we're clear on why and how much a new Outback SUV can tow, let's pause a moment and imagine the possibilities these specs afford. Even in the entry-level Premium trim, you'll have the ability to load your bikes onto a trailer, hit the road, and complete an exciting ride through the Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve.
Prefer an afternoon on the water? Your Subaru Outback can haul kayaks, fishing boats, or canoes to Skokie Lagoons. Camping is a breeze thanks to the SUV's roof rails and available Thule rooftop tent accessory, or you could bring your ATVs to Rocky Glen OHV Park and make some unforgettable trail memories.
Explore the chart below to determine which 2026 Outback trim is your best fit. We cover all the most vital specs of each variant, including Subaru Outback Premium towing capacity and Subaru Outback Limited towing capacity.
Go camping, kayaking, fishing, and more: Take advantage of all our great state has to offer when you load up your Subaru Outback trailer and leave everyday life behind.
| 2026 Outback Trims | Premium / Limited / Touring | Wilderness / Limited XT / Touring XT |
|---|---|---|
| Towing Capacity | 2,700 lbs1 | 3,500 lbs1 |
| Engine | 2.5L 4-cyl | 2.4L turbo 4-cyl |
| Transmission | Lineartronic CVT | Lineartronic CVT |
| Drivetrain | Symmetrical AWD | Symmetrical AWD |
| Horsepower | 180 | 260 |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 277 lb-ft |
| EPA-Est. MPG (City / Hwy) | 25 / 31 MPG2 |
|
Do you crave a connection with the great outdoors in Highland Park, IL? Are you scouting for a sport-ute that can rise to the occasion and tow all your favorite toys? Rival midsize SUVs may tow slightly heavier cargo, but the 2026 Outback is still more than capable of bringing along your kayaks, ATV, jet ski, canoes, fishing boat, bicycles, or small pop-up camper. Plus, you'll gain a host of supporting features in the new Subaru Outback that its challengers can't provide:
Schedule a test drive of the Subaru Outback today to discover other ways this midsize sport-ute outshines offerings from other brands.
Subaru Outback towing capacity is ideal for hauling small recreation vehicles. It may not blow other brands out of the water with brute strength, but the well-rounded Outback comes with additional standard benefits that even the outdoors playing field.
You've put off plans to kayak on the lake, bike through a nearby preserve, or discover uncharted trails in your ATV long enough. Now, it's time to make those dreams come true at our local Subaru dealer. Yes, Subaru Outback Wilderness towing capacity – along with that of the Outback XT – truly is the best of the entire 2026 Outback family, but every trim level is more than ready for a romp on the wild side. Visit us in Highland Park today to explore personalized lease and finance opportunities for the new Subaru Outback.
Trims fitted with a 2.5-liter engine have a Subaru Outback towing capacity of 2,700 pounds.1 Thanks to their turbocharged 2.4-liter powertrains with even higher torque, Outback Wilderness and Outback XT towing capacity is elevated to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. Both setups are capable of hauling everything from furniture, lumber, and appliances to ATVs, kayaks, canoes, and fishing boats.
You'll get the highest Subaru Outback towing capacity from a Wilderness, Limited XT, or Touring XT trim level. All three of these variants can trailer up to 3,500 pounds.1 The Wilderness trim is particularly useful if you plan to tow and go off-road because it sits a stunning 9.5 inches off the ground and wears all-terrain tires.
Each 2026 Subaru Outback trim level comes with standard EyeSight safety and driver-assistance technology. Inside the EyeSight suite, you'll find helpful programs like Emergency Lane Keep Assist, Sway Warning, Emergency Stop Assist, and Automatic Emergency Steering – all features that prove useful when towing in Highland Park, IL, or anywhere else. The SUV also has a standard Traction Control System, a rear-vision camera, and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.
12/10/24
Very excited to be driving away in my brand new Subaru Outback from Muller. Jason was an exceptional Subaru Representative and educated me through the whole process. I truly feel like he found me the exact vehicle for my needs. Thank you!!!
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.