Davis Bellew Are you looking for an ideal family SUV that can handle all your towing needs? Look no further than the Subaru Ascent! With its impressive towing capacity, this SUV is perfect for adventure seekers, families, or individuals with an active lifestyle.
In this article, we’ll explain the towing capacity of the Subaru Ascent for different model variations, factors that affect towing capacity, how to calculate a vehicle’s towing capacity, safety tips while towing, and the most suitable type of trailer for Ascent.
Towing Capacity of the Subaru Ascent
The Subaru Ascent is known in the SUV market as one of the best tow vehicles due to its power and reliability. The towing capability of the Ascent is determined by its engine power, transmission, and suspension system.
The Subaru Ascent comes in four different models, which have varying towing capacities. The base model of the Ascent can tow up to 2,000 pounds, while the other three models can tow up to 5,000 pounds. It is important to note that the 5,000 pound towing capacity is only for Ascent models equipped with a factory-installed trailer hitch.
Factors that Affect Towing Capacity
The towing capacity of a vehicle is influenced by several factors, including the vehicle’s engine power, transmission, suspension, size, and weight. Adding to these factors, the trailer’s weight, the tongue weight, and other optional equipment on the vehicle can also affect the towing capacity.
The tongue weight is the weight that rests on the hitch ball, and it should be approximately 10% of the total weight of the loaded trailer. Therefore, it is important to know the maximum towing capacity of your vehicle to ensure you don’t exceed the weight limit.
How to Calculate a Vehicle’s Towing Capacity
Calculating the towing capacity of a vehicle can be confusing, but it is critical to ensure your safety while towing. The simplest way to calculate towing capacity is by checking your vehicle’s owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer for more information.
Another way to determine your vehicle’s towing capacity is by subtracting the vehicle’s weight from the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR). The GCWR is the maximum weight allowed for your vehicle, including passengers, cargo, and the trailer weight.
It is advisable to get assistance from a professional in calculating your vehicle’s towing capacity or visiting a local dealership to learn more about towing capacity for your specific model.
Safety Tips While Towing
Towing can be a dangerous activity if not done correctly. Here are some safety tips to follow when towing with the Subaru Ascent:
- Check the weight of your trailer and tongue weight to ensure it does not exceed the Subaru Ascent’s towing capacity.
- Always distribute the weight in the trailer evenly, ensuring it is not loaded unevenly to the sides or front of the trailer.
- Slow down and give yourself a longer stopping distance while towing, as the added weight affects the vehicle’s stopping power.
- Check the tire pressure and condition of both the trailer tires and the vehicle tires to ensure they are adequately inflated and are in good condition.
Most Suitable Type of Trailer for the Ascent
The most suitable type of trailer for the Subaru Ascent depends on the weight and size of the trailer. The Ascent is capable of towing many types of trailers, including small to mid-size campers, small boats, and cargo trailers.
Car haulers, horse trailers, and large boats may exceed the Subaru Ascent’s towing capacity, and you should consider a larger SUV or truck for these types of trailers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can the Subaru Ascent tow a camper?
A. Yes, the Subaru Ascent is capable of towing a small to mid-size camper. Ensure you check the camper’s weight and tongue weight to ensure it doesn’t exceed the Ascent’s towing capacity.
Q. How much weight can the Ascent tow without a trailer hitch?
A. The Ascent’s base model can tow up to 2,000 pounds without a trailer hitch. However, it is advised to use a trailer hitch to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road.
Q. Can I upgrade the towing package on my Subaru Ascent?
A. Yes, you can upgrade the towing package of your Subaru Ascent by purchasing a factory-installed hitch. This can increase your towing capacity up to 5,000 pounds.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Subaru Ascent is an ideal family SUV that can handle all your towing needs. With its impressive towing capacity, this SUV can tow a variety of trailers and meets the expectations of families, adventure seekers, or individuals with an active lifestyle.
Remember to follow safety tips while towing, ensure you always stay under the towing capacity, and use the most suitable type of trailer for the Ascent. With these measures in place, you are guaranteed an efficient and seamless towing experience.
