2023 Subaru Forester Towing Capacity & Payload

The 2023 Subaru Forester can tow a maximum of 1,500 pounds.

Quick Answer

• Max Towing Capacity: 1,500 lbs
• Max Payload Capacity: 904 - 1,120 lbs (varies by trim)
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): 4,440 lbs
• Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): 5,940 lbs
• Curb Weight: 3,450 - 3,570 lbs
• Hitch Class: Class I (for 1,500 lbs capacity), with a maximum tongue weight of 150 lbs.

Tow Ratings by Engine & Trim

All 2023 Subaru Forester models are equipped with a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER 4-cylinder engine and Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. Therefore, towing capacities are consistent across all trims.

Note: Payload capacities vary based on the specific configuration and optional equipment of each trim. Always refer to the tire and loading information sticker on the driver's side door jamb for the most accurate payload for your specific vehicle.

Tow Package Contents

Subaru typically offers a "Trailer Hitch" accessory for the Forester, but there isn't a comprehensive "tow package" in the traditional sense that includes items like an integrated trailer brake controller or transmission cooler from the factory for the 1,500 lbs capacity models. The Forester Wilderness, however, is factory-equipped for 3,000 lbs towing and has enhanced cooling capacity.

For models with a 1,500-pound towing capacity, an aftermarket hitch receiver and wiring harness are usually added by the dealer or owner. For safe towing, especially with the 1,500 lbs capacity, consider the following:

• Transmission Cooler: While not a standalone factory option for the 1,500 lbs models, the Forester's CVT is designed for efficiency. For frequent or heavy towing near the limit, especially in hot climates or hilly terrain, an auxiliary transmission cooler can help prolong the life of the transmission fluid and components. The Wilderness trim has an enhanced design for its higher capacity.
• Integrated Trailer Brake Controller: An integrated brake controller is not offered as a factory option for the Forester. If your trailer has its own braking system and weighs over 1,000 pounds (or as required by local laws), an aftermarket trailer brake controller will be necessary for safe operation.
• Trailer Sway Control: The 2023 Forester comes standard with Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), which includes a form of trailer stability assist that can help mitigate trailer sway by applying individual wheel braking and/or reducing engine power. This system is designed to work passively but is not a substitute for proper trailer loading and potentially a weight distribution hitch for heavier loads.
• 7-pin Connector: The standard accessory wiring harness for the Forester typically provides a 4-pin flat connector. If your trailer requires a 7-pin connector (for trailer brakes, auxiliary power, or reverse lights), an adapter or a more robust aftermarket wiring solution will be needed.

5th-Wheel & Gooseneck

The 2023 Subaru Forester is not designed for 5th-wheel or gooseneck towing. These types of hitches are generally used with heavy-duty trucks and require a much higher towing capacity and a different truck bed configuration than what the Forester offers.

Weight Distribution & WDH Requirements

For towing capacities up to 1,500 pounds, a weight distribution hitch (WDH) is generally not required for the Subaru Forester. However, a WDH can offer benefits by distributing the tongue weight more evenly across the vehicle's axles, which can improve stability, braking, and steering. If you are towing close to the maximum 1,500-pound limit or notice significant sag in the rear suspension, a WDH might be a worthwhile addition. Always consult your Forester's owner's manual for specific recommendations on weight distribution hitches.

For the Wilderness trim with its 3,000 lbs capacity, the use of a WDH is strongly recommended for trailers exceeding certain weights, typically around 1,500 lbs or if the tongue weight approaches the maximum permissible amount. Refer to the owner's manual for precise WDH requirements for the Wilderness.

Regardless of WDH use, ensure your tongue weight (the downward force the trailer exerts on the hitch) does not exceed 10-15% of the total trailer weight and stays within the maximum limits of your hitch receiver (typically 150 lbs for a Class I hitch for the 1,500 lbs models, and higher for the Wilderness).

Real-World Towing Tips for This Vehicle

• Stay within Limits: Always stay well within the 1,500-pound (or 3,000-pound for Wilderness) towing capacity and 150-pound tongue weight limit. Exceeding these limits can strain your vehicle's engine, transmission, brakes, and suspension, leading to premature wear and unsafe driving conditions.
• Proper Loading: Load your trailer correctly, aiming for roughly 60% of the cargo weight in the front half of the trailer to achieve the recommended 10-15% tongue weight. Improper loading is a leading cause of trailer sway.
• Check Tires: Ensure both your Forester's tires and the trailer's tires are properly inflated to the manufacturer's recommended pressures for towing.
• Practice: If you're new to towing, practice turning, backing up, and braking in a safe, open area before heading out on the road.
• Allow for Extra Time and Distance: When towing, your vehicle will accelerate slower and take longer to stop. Allow plenty of extra space between your vehicle and others, and anticipate stops and turns well in advance.
• Monitor Temperatures: Keep an eye on your engine temperature gauge, especially when climbing hills or in hot weather. If you notice the temperature rising, pull over and allow the vehicle to cool down. The Wilderness trim has enhanced cooling, but vigilance is still wise.
• Regular Maintenance: Ensure your Forester is regularly maintained, especially its brakes, transmission, and cooling system, before any towing trips.

Common Towing-Related Issues

• Overheating: Pushing the Forester to its towing limits, especially up long grades or in hot weather, can lead to transmission or engine overheating. This is less likely with the Wilderness due to its enhanced cooling, but still possible.
• Reduced Braking Performance: The added weight of a trailer significantly increases stopping distances. Factory brakes are designed for the vehicle's GVWR, not GCWR. Relying solely on the Forester's brakes can lead to excessive wear and fade.
• Trailer Sway: Improperly loaded trailers, high speeds, or strong crosswinds can cause dangerous trailer sway. Ensuring correct tongue weight and using trailer sway control (either built-in VDC or an aftermarket anti-sway device) is crucial.
• Suspension Sag: Heavy tongue weight can cause the rear of the Forester to sag, affecting handling and headlight aim. Airbags or helper springs can be installed to mitigate this, or a WDH for Wilderness models.
• CVT Strain: While the Forester's CVT is robust, continuous towing at maximum capacity, particularly in demanding conditions, can put additional stress on the transmission. Following maintenance schedules and using an auxiliary cooler (if applicable for 1,500 lbs models) is important. The Wilderness model's CVT is specifically tuned and cooled for its higher towing capacity.

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