2018 Subaru Forester Towing Capacity & Payload

The 2018 Subaru Forester can tow a maximum of 1,500 pounds.

Quick answer

• Max Towing Capacity: 1,500 lbs
• Max Payload: 900-998 lbs
• GVWR: 4,400 lbs
• GCWR: 5,900 lbs
• Curb Weight: 3,296-3,624 lbs
• Hitch Class: Class I (for 1,500 lb capacity, 150 lbs tongue weight)

Tow ratings by engine & trim

(Note: All 2018 Subaru Forester models are equipped with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.)

Tow package contents

Subaru did not offer a specific "tow package" for the 2018 Forester from the factory. Towing accessories, such as a hitch receiver, wiring harness, and ball mount, were typically dealer-installed options. It's important to note the following:

• Transmission Cooler: While not a standalone "tow package" item, the Forester's CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) is designed for efficiency. For sustained towing, especially in hilly terrain or warmer climates, it's highly recommended to monitor transmission temperatures carefully. An aftermarket transmission cooler can provide additional protection, though it was not a factory option.
• Integrated Brake Controller: The 2018 Forester does not come with an integrated trailer brake controller. If your trailer has electric brakes and weighs over the recommended limit (typically 1,000 lbs, but always check your trailer's specific requirements), an aftermarket brake controller will be necessary for safe operation.
• Trailer Sway Control: The 2018 Forester includes Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) with Trailer Stability Assist (TSA). This system is designed to detect and mitigate trailer sway by applying individual brakes and/or reducing engine power, helping to maintain control.
• 7-pin Connector: The factory wiring harness typically provides a 4-pin flat connector. For trailers requiring electric brakes or auxiliary power, an adapter or a separate 7-pin wiring installation would be needed.

5th-wheel & gooseneck

The 2018 Subaru Forester is not designed for 5th-wheel or gooseneck towing. These types of trailers require heavy-duty trucks with significant frame and suspension modifications to handle the increased tongue weight and overall trailer size. The Forester's unibody construction and light-duty chassis are not suitable for such applications.

Weight distribution & WDH requirements

For a towing capacity of 1,500 lbs, a weight distribution hitch (WDH) is generally not required for the 2018 Subaru Forester. The tongue weight capacity for the 1,500 lb tow rating is typically 150 lbs, which is well within the capabilities of a Class I hitch. However, proper loading of your trailer to ensure correct tongue weight (aim for 10-15% of the total trailer weight) is crucial for safe towing. If you find your vehicle squatting excessively or exhibiting unstable handling, redistributing the load in the trailer should be the first step, rather than relying on a WDH for such a low tow capacity.

Real-world towing tips for this vehicle

• Know Your Weights: Always verify the actual weight of your trailer and its contents, as well as your loaded vehicle. Do not exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR).
• Proper Loading: Load your trailer with about 60% of the weight in the front half of the trailer to achieve the ideal 10-15% tongue weight. Distribute weight evenly from side to side.
• Tire Pressure: Ensure your vehicle's tires and trailer tires are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended pressures for towing. This is usually higher than everyday driving pressures.
• Braking Distance: Your braking distance will significantly increase when towing. Maintain a greater following distance than usual.
• Acceleration: The Forester has a modest towing capacity. Expect slower acceleration, especially on inclines. Plan your merges and passes carefully.
• Transmission Selection: When descending long grades, use lower gears (if applicable with the CVT's manual mode) to help slow the vehicle and reduce reliance on your brakes, preventing overheating.
• Pre-Trip Inspection: Before each towing trip, check your lights, brakes, hitch connection, safety chains, and tire conditions.

Common towing-related issues

• Overheating Transmission: As mentioned, the CVT can be susceptible to overheating with sustained heavy towing, especially in demanding conditions. Monitoring temperatures and potentially adding an aftermarket cooler can mitigate this.
• Reduced Fuel Economy: Towing significantly increases aerodynamic drag and engine load, leading to a noticeable decrease in fuel efficiency.
• Sway: While the Forester has Trailer Stability Assist, improper loading or excessive speed can still induce sway. If sway occurs, gently reduce speed and avoid sudden steering inputs.
• Suspension Sag: Even within capacity, some rear squat is normal. If it's excessive and affecting handling, re-evaluate your load distribution.

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