Searching for a large SUV with strong towing capabilities? Look no further than the 2023 Subaru Ascent. Featuring a tough body structure and potent engine, this midsize SUV has an impressive tow rating that enables it to pull a wide range of equipment and trailers. It also offers enhanced stability and safety when towing in inclement weather and away from the pavement, thanks to its standard all-wheel drive. Let's take a closer look at the towing capacity of the new Subaru Ascent.
What Are the Factors That Can Affect a Vehicle's Towing Capacity?
One of the main factors that determines the towing capacity of a vehicle is its engine. The tow rating may vary across variants for SUVs that offer multiple engine options. Most of the 2023 Subaru Ascent's trims have the same towing capacity because the SUV comes with only one engine.
The sole 2.4L four-cylinder of the Subaru Ascent is rated at 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, meaning it's powerful enough to handle most driving tasks, from daily commuting to transporting heavy loads. The Boxer powerplant uses dual valve active control and direct-injection fuel delivery for enhanced power output. Dual valve active control is a system that improves engine load by adjusting the timing of the intake and exhaust camshafts. These advanced engine technologies help make the Subaru SUV a great vehicle for towing.
The transmission is another component of a vehicle that can have an impact on the amount of weight it can tow. Many auto experts recommend automatic transmissions for towing. This is because these transmissions tend to give you better control in challenging conditions. They're also less likely to damage the clutch than their manual counterparts when shifting gears during trailering. Nonetheless, manual transmissions may be a better option for off-road towing.
The Subaru Ascent gives you the best of both worlds with its high-torque continuously variable transmission that has an eight-speed manual mode function. This transmission enables the SUV to pull hefty loads smoothly and safely while delivering great fuel efficiency. The Ascent also comes with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters that make it easier for you to switch gear ratios to suit different driving situations.
When it comes to drivetrain, all-wheel drive is the best for recreational towing. This type of drivetrain sends power to all four wheels rather than just two, which improves traction. It helps the wheels stay well planted on the ground when you're trailering, allowing you to maneuver your vehicle easily despite the extra weight.
Similar to most other new Subaru vehicles, the Ascent comes standard with the brand's innovative symmetrical all-wheel-drive system. This system features the X-MODE technology for optimal traction both on and off the pavement and hill-descent control to keep you safe when heading down steep slopes with a trailer.
How Much Weight Can the 2023 Subaru Ascent Tow?
The base model of the 2023 Subaru Ascent offers a maximum towing capacity of only 2,000 pounds. If you know you'll need to be able to pull more than that, opt for any of the higher trim levels, such as the Premium, Onyx Edition, Limited, and Touring. These trims have an impressive tow rating of 5,000 pounds, making the Ascent the best model for towing in the current Subaru lineup. The SUV is also one of the most-capable workhorses in the mainstream midsize SUV segment, where only a few vehicles exceed the 5,000-pound mark.
Note that the towing capacities of the Subaru Ascent models are braked capacities. The braked towing capacity of a vehicle is the amount of weight it can tow if its attached trailer is equipped with a braking system to help with its own braking. If the trailer doesn't have brakes, the tow rating will drop dramatically. This is an important consideration when you're choosing a trailer and calculating how much your Ascent can pull.
What Can You Tow With the 2023 Subaru Ascent?
The items you can tow with a 2023 Subaru Ascent depends on whether you opt for the entry-level model or a higher trim. Choosing the base Ascent will give you a tow rating of 2,000 pounds. While it may seem low, this capacity enables you to lug more than you think. If you enjoy water activities, you can use the Subaru SUV to transport four kayaks, a canoe, a pair of stand-up jet skis, or a rowboat. For outdoor recreation, you should be able to tow two dirt bikes, two ATVs or snowmobiles, or a small camper.
If you decide to get the Premium or higher, you'll have a 5,000-pound towing capacity at your disposal. This allows you to lug everything that the base model can tow, plus a good deal more. Some of the other heavier items you can pull include an enclosed utility trailer, a tow dolly with a small car, an A-frame trailer, a landscape trailer, a small travel trailer, or a fishing boat.
When you're trying to determine what you can tow with a Subaru Ascent, bear in mind you have to take into consideration everything you're towing. So a boat that weighs 4,900 pounds may be too heavy because the trailer it's on and the fuel can easily push the total weight above the 5,000-pound limit. Towing more than what the SUV is rated for can be extremely dangerous, as it can cause you to lose control of your vehicle or even damage it.
Come to Apple Subaru To Test-Drive the Awesome 2023 Subaru Ascent
If you're interested in getting the 2023 Subaru Ascent in York, Pennsylvania, consider coming to Apple Subaru for a test drive. Serving York, Emigsville, Stonybrook, Leaders Heights, Thomasville, Wrightsville, and Strinestown, our dealership has a great selection of new Ascents for you to choose from. Regardless of your driving and towing needs, we can help you drive home a model that satisfies you in every way. Make sure you check out our amazing new vehicle specials to see whether you can get a discount on your preferred Subaru. Contact us today to book a test drive.
