Can a Subaru Outback pull a teardrop trailer?
In this article, we are going to discuss: Can a Subaru Outback pull a teardrop trailer? We will review the towing capacity and performance of a Subaru Outback.
Can a Subaru Outback pull a teardrop trailer?
Yes, a Subaru Outback can pull a teardrop trailer. This Subaru model can tow up to 1800 kg/ 3989 lbs (depending on the year of manufacture) – this being enough for a small teardrop trailer, lightweight caravan and even for a boat.
Subaru Outback Towing Capacity
| Year | Towing Capacity for Unbraked Trailers | Towing capacity for Braked Trailer | |
| 2021 | 1500kg | 2000kg | |
| 2020 | 0kg | 1800kg | |
| 2019 | 1500kg | 1800kg | |
| 2018 | 1500kg | 1800kg | |
| 2017 | 1500kg | 1800kg | |
| 2016 | 1500kg | 1800kg | |
| 2015 | 1500kg | 1800kg | |
| 2014 | 1500kg | 1800kg | |
| 2013 | 1500kg | 1800kg | |
| 2012 | 1500kg | 1800kg | |
| 2011 | 1500kg | 1800kg | |
| 2010 | 1500kg | 1800kg | |
| 2009 | 1500kg | 1800kg | |
| 2008 | 1500kg | 1800kg | |
| 2007 | 1500kg | 1800kg | |
| 2006 | 1500kg | 1800kg | |
| 2005 | 1500kg | 1800kg | |
| 2004 | 1500kg | 1800kg | |
| 2003 | 1400kg | 1800kg | |
| 2002 | 1400kg | 1600kg | |
| 2001 | 1400kg | 1600kg | |
| 2000 | 1200kg | 1600kg | |
| 1999 | 1200kg | 1200kg | |
| 1998 | 1200kg | 1400kg | |
| 1997 | 1400kg | 1400kg | |
| 1996 | 1400kg | 1400kg |
What is towing with a Subaru Outback like?
Towing a teardrop trailer with a Subaru Outback is easy and comfortable. A four-wheel-drive station wagon with a six-cylinder engine is now a more than a scarce commodity. For towing, we love the 3.6L Subaru Outback.
However, its towing capacity is not its greatest quality. Indeed, the manufacturer mentions that it can tow up to 1360 kilograms/3000 pounds, which represents about 3000 pounds. Considering that the weight of a tent trailer varies between 1000 and 2500 pounds depending on the model, this shouldn’t be a problem for you.
However, be sure to buy a trailer that is low enough in weight to give you some leeway. You have to take into account that the trailer will be heavier than its empty weight when you go on vacation with the bikes, the kayak, etc.
In addition to enjoying the summer by pulling your small trailer or tent trailer, you will also love the Outback in the winter. Indeed, it is equipped with a highly efficient all-wheel-drive allowing safe movement, even in snow. Its tailgate, which can load a ton and a half of stock, is also one of its great assets.
That said, plan on spending more on fuel than your current Fit, especially when towing.
As always, when it comes to acquiring a used vehicle, we recommend that you take steps to know the history of the vehicle and its maintenance. Inspection by a trusted mechanic is also required.
Other questions you may be interested in
Can you sleep in a teardrop trailer?
Can a Prius tow a teardrop trailer?
Subaru Outback H6: better for towing
Without falling into the disproportion of midsize SUVs, it is difficult to find a product that will offer a high level of towing capacity. On this point, we have to face the facts; the Subaru Outback H6, which can tow up to 3,000 pounds, when properly equipped, stands out. Overall, it includes all the qualities of a compact SUV and more in many cases.
In a lot of advantages, there is a ground clearance generally higher than the competition. In addition, the performance of its all-wheel drive is hard to beat. The constant grip allows for reassuring behaviour and skills that SUVs that favour traction do not have. Without a shadow of a doubt, the Subaru Outback 3.6 is a top choice.
As for other possibilities, if you want a capacity of over 3,000 pounds, the list is short.
Considering that you are already a satisfied Subaru owner and that Outback 3.6 meets your needs, I don’t think it is necessary for you to look any further. It offers horsepower, decent towing capacity, excellent all-wheel drive and even, the most voluminous interior space of the choices listed. Add to that that it retains good resale value.
The only downside, in our opinion, is its unusually high maintenance cost for the segment. But you probably already know that.
Tips for towing a teardrop trailer with your Subaru Outback
Growing in popularity between 1930 and 1960, the teardrop-shaped motorhome provided adventurers with a safe, secure and comfortable place to rest their heads. While this style of motorhome doesn’t offer a lot of space, the interior setup is a cut above sleeping in a tent, providing protection from the elements and a comfortable bed to rest your head-on.
The teardrop-shaped trailer easily attaches to any car and is a lightweight travel trailer option for people looking to enhance their camping experience.
This small trailer is made by several manufacturers, each offering something different. Some limited models of the teardrop trailer only have enough room to accommodate a comfortable bed with minimal headroom. These trailer options are compact, lightweight and provide weather protection.
While some teardrop-shaped minimal trailer options have a hard aluminum coating, others are made of tent material. These tent-shaped trailers allow you to unpack and unpack the speaker, giving you more room to the layout. However, tent-shaped trailers don’t give you much control over the indoor temperature and climate.
Other teardrop-shaped trailer options are larger, offering more space and convenience. Some teardrop-shaped trailers have a full-height ceiling, which leaves room for a small kitchen and sleeping area.
These areas will provide a small cooker, a prep area, and even a small area to sit and eat. Often the dining room can be transformed into a bedroom. These larger teardrop trailer options are perfect for two people to take advantage of the space.
As a recommendation, the best teardrop trailers that you can tow with a Subaru Outback as High Camp Trailers and Timberleaf Trailers.
- If you’re looking for something that exudes retro charm, there’s nothing quite like an aluminum teardrop trailer. This model from High Camp Trailers in Portland, Oregon has a sleeping cabin up front and a compact galley in the back.
Hidden inside the birch drawers in the cooking space, you’ll find kitchen essentials like a stainless steel cooktop and Coleman cooler.
- Timberleaf Trailers. You can practically sleep under the stars inside this teardrop-shaped trailer from Timberleaf. The motorhome’s huge skylight is one of the largest in the trailer industry according to the manufacturer.
You won’t need a sport utility vehicle to tow this lightweight RV as it weighs 1,200 pounds. The rear of the Timberleaf has a well-designed Baltic birch cooking space.
The bottom line
The Outback is a favourite vehicle for those who enjoy outdoor activities. Although it was never distinguished as a powerful model, those wanting more power can get an optional four-cylinder turbo engine for the first time.
The Outback performed well by our criteria; It demonstrated good advantages in terms of value, safety, efficiency and (perhaps most importantly) the performance of the expected function.
Do you have any questions or suggestions on towing with a Subaru Outback? Let us know!
FAQ on Can a Subaru Outback pull a teardrop trailer?
What kind of trailer can a Subaru Forester pull?
With an average towing capacity of 1600 -1800 kilograms, a Subaru Forester can pull a small or medium-sized caravan, horse trailer with one horse, a small boat or sports equipment.
What weight can a Subaru XV tow?
The weight that a Subaru XV can tow is between 1250 and 1400 kg braked capacity.
What weight can the Subaru Crosstrek tow?
Subaru Crosstrek has a towing capacity of 680 kg or 1500 pounds, making it great for towing small campers, a flatbed or a bicycle trailer.
Is the Subaru XV a good car?
Overall, Subaru XV is a very good car, quite comfortable on high-speed and the torque has a good value, of 350 Nm, being reached very low, from 1,600 rpm.
