The Subaru Forester Wilderness is an off-road-ready SUV that combines rugged capabilities with everyday practicality. Among its many features, the Forester Wilderness boasts an impressive towing capacity, making it suitable for various towing tasks.
Factors Impacting Forester Wilderness Towing Capacity
The Forester Wilderness’s towing capacity is influenced by several factors:
- Engine: The vehicle’s 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine provides ample power for towing, producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque.
- Transmission: The continuously variable transmission (CVT) efficiently handles the increased load of towing.
- Suspension: The reinforced suspension with thicker springs and struts enhances stability and control while hauling.
- Brakes: Upgraded brakes with larger rotors and calipers ensure ample stopping power when towing heavier loads.
Towing Recommendations and Cautions
To ensure safe and efficient towing, consider the following guidelines:
- Weight Distribution: Distribute weight evenly throughout the trailer and place heavier items closer to the vehicle’s center.
- Tongue Weight: The tongue weight should not exceed 150 pounds and should be 10-15% of the trailer’s total weight.
- Trailer Size: Choose a trailer that is not wider than the vehicle and does not obstruct the driver’s view.
- Trailer Brakes: Trailers weighing over 1,500 pounds should be equipped with their own brakes.
Avoid overloading the vehicle, as exceeding the towing capacity can compromise stability and safety. Additionally, improper weight distribution or excessive trailer sway can affect handling and braking capabilities. Use a sway control device to minimize trailer sway.
The Subaru Forester Wilderness offers a towing capacity of 1,500 pounds, making it a capable choice for hauling small campers, boats, or ATVs. By adhering to proper towing practices and avoiding overloading, owners can safely utilize this SUV’s towing capabilities.
FAQ: Forester Wilderness Towing Capacity
What is the towing capacity of the 2023 Subaru Forester Wilderness?
The Forester Wilderness has a towing capacity of 1,500 pounds when properly equipped with the towing package.
What does the towing package include?
The towing package includes a heavy-duty hitch, wiring harness, and transmission cooler.
What factors affect towing capacity?
Towing capacity is influenced by engine power, transmission type, suspension, and brakes.
What are some towing recommendations?
Distribute weight evenly, ensure tongue weight is within limits, choose an appropriate trailer size, and consider using trailer brakes.
What are some cautions to follow when towing?
Avoid overloading, distribute weight properly, be aware of trailer sway, and use a sway control device if necessary.

Characteristic/Advice | Key Point |
---|---|
Towing Capacity | 1,500 pounds with towing package |
Engine | 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque |
Transmission | Continuously variable transmission (CVT) designed for towing |
Suspension | Reinforced with thicker springs and struts for enhanced stability |
Brakes | Upgraded with larger rotors and calipers for increased stopping power |
Distribution | Place heavier items closer to the center of the vehicle and distribute weight evenly throughout the trailer |
Tongue Weight | 10-15% of trailer’s total weight, not exceeding 150 pounds |
Trailer Size | Should not be wider than the vehicle and should not obstruct the driver’s view |
Trailer Brakes | Trailers over 1,500 pounds should have their own brakes |
Overloading | Never exceed the vehicle’s towing capacity |
Weight Distribution | Improper distribution can affect stability and handling |
Trailer Sway | Use a sway control device to minimize sway caused by winds, uneven roads, or high speeds |