2025 Subaru Ascent's Hauling Performance

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Comprehensive Towing Capabilities of the 2025 Subaru Ascent


Numerous considerations go into selecting your next SUV. A common requirement for many is an SUV with a decent towing capacity. If you're looking for a new SUV that can tow a range of cargo, the 2025 Subaru Ascent may be the perfect solution. Below, our team at Speedway Subaru dives into the 2025 Subaru Ascent's towing capacity, what this means in practical terms, and the other features that make the Ascent an excellent choice for towing.


Maximum Towing Capacity: Breaking Down the 5,000 Pounds

When properly equipped, the 2025 Subaru Ascent has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. This means that the Ascent can safely tow up to 5,000 pounds; however, you must factor in a few other elements. For example, that figure includes the weight already present in the vehicle. If your Ascent is loaded with heavy materials in the cargo area, you'll have a lower towing capacity available.

Similarly, towing capacity depends on the type of trailer hitch that you use. The 5,000-pound maximum applies when you choose the Ascent with a Class III trailer hitch. Choosing a different trailer hitch will lower the capacity.

Lastly, hauling capacity depends on what you're towing. Towing capacity is typically divided into two categories: braked and unbraked. This refers to whether your trailer has its own braking system. If you're hauling a trailer with a braking system, you can tow heavier loads, while any other scenario leaves you with a smaller capacity.

Essential Towing Features and Technologies

With the 2025 Subaru Ascent, several towing features and technologies can help you have the best experience. Trailer stability assist senses unsafe yaw conditions and automatically applies the brakes to specific wheels for better control. Another key feature is hill descent control, which helps your Ascent maintain a steady speed when driving downhill with a trailer.

The Ascent also comes with enhanced safety features, including:

  • Blind-spot detection
  • Rear cross-traffic alert
  • Trailer sway assist

Finally, the 2025 Ascent comes with X-MODE, a driving feature that optimizes engine output when you're going over rough terrain. This is especially useful if you're taking your trailer off-road, such as on a camping or fishing trip.

Impact of Engine and Trim Variants on Towing Performance

One of the great things about the 2025 Subaru Ascent is that each trim level comes with the same 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engine. As a result, each trim level has the same towing capacity and performance. This allows you to focus on other features and elements when deciding on a trim level, knowing that you'll get the same towing capacity no matter your choice.

How Much Can a Subaru Ascent Tow?

What does a 5,000-pound towing capacity mean in practical terms? Five thousand pounds gives you enough versatility for a range of common towing needs. You should be able to tow midsized trailers, small campers, and other utility trailers with your Ascent. Many popup campers and lightweight travel trailers are also under this limit.

Beyond trailers, 5,000 pounds is typically enough to tow a small boat or personal watercraft trailer, provided you have proper weight distribution. Lastly, 5,000 pounds is a good capacity for towing landscaping or other construction equipment. If you have something specific you're looking to tow, it's a good idea to determine its maximum weight before purchasing a new Subaru Ascent to ensure it comes in under the maximum towing capacity.

Maximizing Your 2025 Subaru Ascent's Hauling Performance

To get the most from your towing and hauling experience, keep the following in mind.

Important Factors Affecting Hauling Performance

Adding significant weight to the tail end of your Ascent will impact your SUV's performance. Your Ascent's suspension and tires, in particular, will be under extra stress. This is why it's a good idea to inspect your tires and suspension system regularly if you frequently tow with your Ascent. Make sure your tires have enough tread remaining on them and that they're wearing evenly.

As you're loading your trailer, distribute the weight as evenly as you can. Doing so will help to manage the stress on your Ascent and keep your tires from wearing down unevenly. It will also help you maintain better control over your Ascent, especially around corners.

Safe Towing Practices and Tips

Beyond aiming for the best performance from your Ascent, you'll also want to keep it safe while towing. This starts by ensuring everything is connected correctly before you get on the road. Always double-check your connections and that you've secured your cargo inside your trailer. Also, check that there are no issues with your trailer, such as worn-down tires or a broken taillight.

If you're new to towing, we recommend taking your Ascent out for a test-drive with an empty trailer first. This will help you learn how to navigate tight spaces or traffic better and learn how the vehicle behaves with extra weight attached. Once you add the full cargo, consider driving around some side streets first to get a feel for things before taking your Ascent onto the highway.

Test-Drive The 2025 Subaru Ascent at Speedway Subaru in Indianapolis

Interested in learning more about the new 2025 Subaru Ascent? If you're in the Indianapolis area, visit Speedway Subaru to experience the new Ascent for yourself. One of our friendly team members would be happy to answer any questions or set you up with a test-drive. We can also discuss your towing needs and whether the 2025 Subaru Ascent is up for the challenge. Contact us to schedule a visit, or get started today by valuing your trade-in or getting preapproved for financing.