Outback Wilderness Real Life Tow Test

So far, the Outback Wilderness has impressed us in almost every way. That being said, I wanted to see how this vehicle could do under a real-life tow test. I had to know what this vehicle was capable of even though most people will never tow with their Outback Wilderness, but for those of us who intend to use this vehicle for everything that it claims it can do, I knew that this test could break my enthusiasm. So I loaded up a trailer with a reasonable amount of weight, took it to the scale, and then took off driving under multiple different conditions to get an idea of gas mileage, acceleration, and braking, as well as took measurements to see what kind of suspension sag we would get with a trailer this heavy. This video is as close to scientific as I could get without making the information difficult to understand for people who haven't done much towing. As always, no science experiment is perfect outside of laboratory conditions, but I did what I could to limit variables and keep the information as concise as possible.
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[@wilhitefamily5572]

I tow a 2021 sunset rv 109 sport trailer. I use a curt Bluetooth wireless controller. Total weight loaded is about 1400 pounds . The outback wilderness has no problems. Tows very well. Good gearing for climbs and lots of power. Tracks perfectly. Also tow a utility trailer 4x8 at 2300 pounds loaded. Great vehicle over all.

[@roamingwithjosh]

Agreed!

[@Chevygang23LT]

Finally a real world review on this car! Thank you

[@roamingwithjosh]

No worries!

[@zachv8286]

Great video! I'm with you on being very happy with the OBW -- it's checked all of the boxes for us, and has really surprised me in its overall balance of capability and refinement. I appreciate the towing info as well, and am excited to see this thing put through a proper overlanding test by someone with a great deal of overlanding experience and insight. Looking forward to the videos to come!

[@roamingwithjosh]

Right on! Thank you for the comment and we look forward to sharing our experiences with you!

[@Principal9999]

Hi Josh. I also have a 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness. I absolutely love it! I have had quite a few different Subaru vehicles and always return to the dealership to purchase another. :) I am looking forward to your future content - thanks for sharing. Cheers from Ontario, Canada 🇨🇦.

[@roamingwithjosh]

Awesome, we love ours too! I'm not sure what the future holds for our vehicles, but if I had to make a decision today it would be to stick with the OBW. I appreciate the comment and support!

[@stylekanton7006]

Great review, I was a bit on the fence about this car because of the lack of info surrounding this subject. Now you have presented all the test data I need to go ahead and look further into this car :) cheers!

[@roamingwithjosh]

Glad it was helpful!

[@kfivemtb]

Great information we just got a wilderness. Keep the great videos coming!

[@roamingwithjosh]

Thank you!

[@djmx1566]

Super informative video! Shopping around for an off-road cross over and keep coming back to this. Seems like the winner tbh

[@roamingwithjosh]

It’s definitely more capable then what people give it credit for. Appreciate the comment!

[@hypercam258]

Great Channel! High quality videos. Keep doing what you're doing and you'll take off

[@roamingwithjosh]

Appreciate the support and kind words! Thank you!

[@kurtluhmann1744]

Thanks for taking the time to share the information.

[@roamingwithjosh]

Glad it was helpful!

[@justinflott5133]

Looking forward to what you report after your trip. Have fun!

[@roamingwithjosh]

Thank you!

[@JosephSanders]

Thanks so much for the thorough research/experiment video! We are getting our OBW in a week and we may be doing some towing as well 👍

[@roamingwithjosh]

No worries! Glad it was helpful!

[@stephentremblay652]

Thanks for your work, great help! I'm taking a trailer up to Maine this weekend for some island camping. I have a 22 and just hitting 20,000 miles about 7 months in.

[@roamingwithjosh]

No worries! Thanks for the input!

[@melindabingham8703]

Wow, This was such an informative video about towing with the Outback. I'm a new 2022 Wilderness Outback owner (got the last 2022 on the lot), having gotten it in part for its towing capacity. I look forward to seeing more of your videos.

[@roamingwithjosh]

glad it was helpful, and thank you for the kind words!

[@j.trevorstuart7718]

Excellent… Well done covering many of the things most people are unaware of for safe towing. •Another overlooked Item • - Unequal Pressure ! Of the towing vehicle Drive axle TIRES can cause an almost immediate wagging When applying brakes especially on declines quickly becoming extreme as the driver tries to counteract. Many KZbin videos showing wagging action accidents without explanation as to why …

[@roamingwithjosh]

Totally agree! Thanks for the input!

[@nikobellic3540]

Leaving a comment just to help this video out you really did a good job with this test thank you

[@roamingwithjosh]

Appreciate it!

[@MarcStJean1965]

Hey ! Thanks for all these infos ! I bought mine 2 weeks ago and love it so far. I may have a Eyesight calibration to do on it tho.... It get off all the time too easily. I bought it to tow once a while around 2000 pounds for about 2 hours drive. In Quebec we have a Bipolar weather, never know what it will be on the next day ! I did an Offroad test in 14 inches of snow. Forward and stop in no trail in front. Restart quit easily. Turn around stop, got stuck (he he he). Push XDrive for Snow and got out of that stuck position without going backward. I was impress!!! I also watch the Offroad Jeep trail... wow nice drive ! Will follow your channel ! Thanks to you and your wife !

[@roamingwithjosh]

Right on! Thank you and have fun in your new wilderness, congrats!

[@camillebrenes]

Another excellent video bud. I owned a 2021 Ascent and towed my 18.5 ranger bass boat with it effortlessly (its about 2100 pounds total between boat and trailer and gear). I had a feeling the wilderness (my new 2024 one) would be just fine even without the higher rating, you have pretty much confirmed what I thought. Running about 60% of max towing capacity. I also add a bit of tire pressure to all 4 wheels (not a lot a few lbs) which seems to help a bit with the extra sway from the lift over the standard outback. I bought a 4 pin to 5 pin adapter so I could run my lights correctly on the boat, and the trailer has manual brakes (momentum based mechanical) which helps braking strain the OW.

[@roamingwithjosh]

Right on! Appreciate the input!

[@llowielynbatara1089]

Just discovered your channel. Well made videos. You explain things a lit better. Now I have to save for some upgrade my wife’s Outback xt. Planning on getting an off-road trailer it can pull and this made me rethink. Was going to buy a 3k lbs forward fold trailer for it but…after watching this.:)

[@roamingwithjosh]

Right on! Thanks for the comment!

[@jeffk464]

So the test is to tow for 5 years or so and see if the CVT transmission grenades itself.

[@subienorris]

Happy you're enjoying the Wilderness. I have a 2021 Onyx XT Outback and have some hesitations about towing, so it's nice to hear that you haven't had any issues. The 2.4 turbo in the car is a strong motor.

[@roamingwithjosh]

Thank you! I had my hesitancies as well, but this Wilderness impressed me again!

[@MaruchanWes]

I have a 2021 onyx, does great. Have kept it under 2600 total, so that's all I can speak for, 90% of the time under 1900.

[@bradh6185]

Great info. Thanks. I'm thinking about getting the Touring XT and a 2,000-pound pop up.

[@roamingwithjosh]

Sounds like a plan! You will be in good shape with that set up.

[@geoffreydlin8043]

Extraordinarily educational.

[@JonathanBaileyn2u]

That’s my philosophy 👊 Thank you for doing this video to the level you did👊

[@roamingwithjosh]

No worries!

[@fionnmccueil]

Thank you for the straightforward information and recommendations. It is much appreciated. I'm seriously considering this vehicle to replace the 2006 Forester that's on engine #2 and approaching 300K miles. I'll miss the stick shift, but I've grown used to driving my wife's Crosstrek Hybrid, aka The Spaceship, so I'll get over it!

[@roamingwithjosh]

Right on! Thanks for the comment.

[@brian1740]

really love this video your set up is very close to what i am planning on tow with my new outback wilderness to Florida from Ohio! I have been looking for this kind of info for a while now on KZbin thank you!! the gas mileage was the biggest info I was looking for. the only other question I have is what kind of RPMs was the motor running at around 70MPH. did it feel like it was revving itself to death?

[@roamingwithjosh]

Honestly, the motor ran extremely smoothly. I've towed a lot, with many different vehicles and this one really handled well the entire way too, and from the West Coast pulling a teardrop. You will have no issues at all.

[@GATOROC1]

Thanks for the informational video. We just picked up our OBW last week and are loving it so far. It's a MUCH better DD than our JLUR, but we expected that. We were able to drive it on some ice packed roads and I couldn't believe how well it works. I look forward to hearing about your upcoming trip!

[@roamingwithjosh]

Awesome stuff! Thanks for the comment!

[@lydolife]

I just bought one, great video!

[@roamingwithjosh]

Congrats!

[@yuniaguirre]

Hello there, I’m enjoying your videos, they have been very helpful to me in building up my wilderness before placing my order. With regards to your tow hitch, i like the way yours is inside the bumper rather than below. Is that factory installed?

[@roamingwithjosh]

It is factory installed. Subaru will mount it the way we have it if you go with them for the install. Hope that helps!

[@INSTACRUISING]

Very good video! Thank you

[@roamingwithjosh]

Anytime! Thank you for your support!

[@tpseeker3367]

Looking forward to your upcoming adventures @OverlandingNow. Still think you should get a gauge scanner to keep an eye on the trans temps.

[@roamingwithjosh]

I was thinking the same thing and I may just go ahead and order one today just to be safe. Thanks for the input!

[@chewchy9052]

Great video ty

[@roamingwithjosh]

No worries

[@LuisHerrera-vr5fk]

Hi Josh! This was a great video and I thank you for making it. I have a 22’ Forester Wilderness (non-turbo) rated to tow 3000lb. Do you think if I tow from TX to Utah with a little under 1000lb considering slopes that it is do-able?

[@roamingwithjosh]

That's more than do-able. I think you will be smooth sailing. Thanks for the comment!

[@user-yv5id5gl4w]

Thank you so much! My future vehicle.

[@roamingwithjosh]

No worries!

[@billhecht5291]

I have an 5x8 aluminum enclosed trailer I use for my DJ business. Right now I pull it with a full size truck however would like to trade in for a smaller vehicle like the Outback. This really helps with the research, thank you.

[@roamingwithjosh]

No worries at all. Glad it was helpful.

[@shawn-paulluchin603]

Helpful . I am considering this as my next subie. I have a 2010 Outback that I had a 7 pin connection put on to tow my Scamp 13ft travel trailer(1600 lbs) works very well. Only time I don't have enough power (2.5 engine) is going up a pass that is 5000 ft and up. Otherwise braking is very good and I get a little better than 19mpg on a 500 mile trip, that I have done 9 times. Also does well in the snow!

[@roamingwithjosh]

Right on!

[@DavidSilva-zb6mh]

Awesome intel!! Did you end up getting a 7 pin installed? If so, what did you use. And did you hook up your battery brake line Thank you in advance. David

[@roamingwithjosh]

I did not. Thanks for the comment!

[@theshakenman7698]

Im waiting on my wilderness to come in this month! Do you have anyissues with the forward collision? Iv heard that it will slam on the brakes randomly sometimes

[@roamingwithjosh]

If someone pulls out in front of you it will light up and apply pressure to the brakes for a split second. I haven’t had any other issues with yet!

[@timothyj.2937]

Can’t wait for the long trip video

[@roamingwithjosh]

Thank you!

[@MartinKnauber]

Hey Josh, I realy love your videos. Thanks for making them! I also got myself an Outback Wilderness and was wondering if you have any idea how the CVT will perform when I pull someting at the limit of the tow rating of 3500 lbs? I want to tow a boat that is just about 3400 lbs and am trying to figgure out if that will damage my CVT. What do you think?

[@roamingwithjosh]

Unfortunately I’m not a Subaru tech so I don’t want to give you my opinion and then something happen to your trans. I would get with your dealer and talk to an actual tech who services the vehicle to get the most accurate answer.

[@MartinKnauber]

@@roamingwithjosh Hey Josh, thanks for the reply. Much appreciated. Yes, I already talked to three different techs at Subaru. They all said if I just go with what Subaru says I'd probably be fine. However, each one of them was also unsure if I could tow a 3400 pound boat up the mountains for a longer distance. I live in BC - lots of mountains here. One of the techs said that a CVT could more easily overheat than a normal automatic or manual transmission. ...So, I asked you because I thought that maybe you have already tried out towing a max load over a long distance. But from all the feedback I got so far, I think I might just tow the boat over short distances where it's flat or get another tow-vehicle. But thanks again for your reply and thanks for an absolute awsome channel, I love it and learn a lot.

[@oceanbeliever681]

My son in law and daughter just bought one because of you, you should get a commission! Thx for the shirt Brother I love it!

[@roamingwithjosh]

I wish it worked that way, dude! Tell them to enjoy and thanks for the support! Enjoy the T!

[@oceanbeliever681]

@@roamingwithjosh keep doing what your doing Brother.

[@Kianquenseda]

Great video I am trying to determine if it would be possible to live out of a small trailer for a summer but what trailer can my outback wilderness pull ?

[@roamingwithjosh]

The OBW can pull just about any light teardrop. 3000lbs would be your max with all gear loaded to pull comfortably and safely. That's my personal opinion and what I would do.

[@TomWuQ]

Great video! Any MPG result for a full size rooftop tent? such as iSkycamp 2.0?

[@roamingwithjosh]

We have the same tent, but haven't tested that.

[@Conflict7701]

I’m looking to purchase a wilderness this fall/winter but I’d also like to put some KO2s on it how does it do with acceleration? Does it feel slow and sluggish with the larger tires?

[@roamingwithjosh]

not at all!

[@phanivanka1962]

What do you recommend as options to consider for reducing the sag? I am looking at a trailer between 2200-2400 pounds for my 2023 obw

[@roamingwithjosh]

The only way to really compensate for the sag is to add a stiffer suspension which will impact the ride quality on a day to day basis. You have to try and balance how much you tow vs how much you don't and decide which of the two you're willing to sacrifice. It's a common issue for anyone who tows. I would recommend this setup if you do decide to add suspension adventurerigshop.com/products/2-ats-suspension-lift-kit-suited-for-2020-subaru-outback-bt?variant=45107656687892

[@benjaminmanzano9284]

Hi, thank you for the informative video. Towing is a new thing to me. I was wondering if you had any thoughts on towing another vehicle long distance. I want to tow an Equinox, which is listed to weigh about 2500 lbs. I'm not sure if the weight becomes less once put on one of those towing frames. Also, any thoughts on the 2 wheels towing vs the 4 wheels towing that UHAUL offers? Thank you!

[@roamingwithjosh]

Only thing I can say for this is that towing on 4 wheels reduces the overall weight which is a good thing. Towing with the Uhaul trailer is obviously towing more weight. Try to keep your weight down as much as possible.

[@brandonknudson3662]

I just purchased a 2022 wilderness and it is our third outback we have owned and it is by far the most capable so far...

[@roamingwithjosh]

That's awesome to hear! This is our first ever subaru and I can say that so far we are beyond impressed with what it's capable of! Thanks for the input!

[@McmeYTman]

I am considering an outback XT/Wilderness for my next vehicle but I am unsure if I it will be pushing it too hard for a lightweight camper. I am specifically looking at something like a Kz Sportsman Classic 170MB that has a dry weight of 2,780lb. I wonder if even with some supplies, fluids, if the tow capacity of the Outback at 3,500lb will be cutting it too close.

[@roamingwithjosh]

I wouldn't go over 2,500lbs completely loaded. I'm not an engineer, I'm just giving you my personal experience towing with this car.

[@bodiesbyjason7558]

What is the loud sound I hear from the rear suspension when I go over tall speed bumps? It sounds like it only come from the rear passenger side and it sounds like it’s the spare tire bouncing but I think it’s just the suspension recoiling out hard

[@roamingwithjosh]

I think that’s exactly what it is. It could be the suspension hitting it’s limit and bottoming out. I’ve had that happen to me several times over speed bumps as well.

[@texassky9706]

Looking forward to watching your channel for the long range Sube trip :) I'm not entirely convinced about the towing. I've towed a 16,000lb fifth wheel with my Ford F350 super duty, so maybe my brain is thinking way too much about safety. I have a Wilderness and the thing is GREAT. I would say, if I were to tow with it, I'd prefer something that has more of a tear drop shape or something short like it and nothing with higher footprint than the Sube itself for gas purposes. The no trailer brake thing is an issue that needs to be addressed. I hope you can find something that works with your set up. Was a great test you ran with solid info. Great content!! Safe travels :)

[@roamingwithjosh]

Thank you! I'm used to towing my f250 super duty so I totally understand what you're saying. The trailer brake is an issue and that little trailer is what I had at my disposal so I had to roll with what was available. I sincerely appreciate the feedback and input!

[@chriskauerz806]

An F350 doesn't belong in a Subaru towing thread.. But I feel you. The last 2 vehicles I've owned were a Tundra Crewmax and Tundra 1794 crew.. I know what he's talking about when you push that weight limit. Better know what the hell you're doing and even then you'll pucker some.. I jumped in this thread because I traded my 2015 Tundra for a loaded 2018 Outback back in March of 2021 and really haven't looked back. I'm 6'3 and 230 lbs and fit in that thing like a glove. I have a roof rack that will carry a couple hundred lbs and I did pull a 5x10 trailer with 1500 pounds of limestone to a job across town. But I've decided that I'm not gonna pull anything with weight that pushes the limit on that Subaru. Towing comes down to really 1 thing and that's your ability to stop.. You can pull things and burn gas all day but if you can't control or stop your vehicle you are Focked..

[@roamingwithjosh]

@@chriskauerz806 I think the point of the F350 comment was just to provide some validity to his input, but I get what you're saying. Towing is tricky if you haven't done a lot of it and I can say that I have pushed the envelope several times and towed some dangerous loads with a truck that probably wasn't built for the job, but when you're young, you're stupid and less concerned. I think what people need to understand mostly is that just because your vehicle has a tow rating of X doesn't mean that it's a good idea to max it out and take off down the road. I also think vehicle manufactures push the limit of what their vehicles can truly tow which gives people the misconception that just because it "can" tow that much, doesn't mean it's safe to do so. Thanks for the input!

[@texassky9706]

@@chriskauerz806 You are right. I was comparing 2 entirely different vessels. However, I gained some experience by my previous setup that makes me extra cautious, especially on long trips and hauling over mountain passes; just wanted to share... I don't have experience hauling a trailer through an off-road route. That, I would love to try with my Sube. Anyway, this is a great discussion. All good points for people to ponder.

[@NewDoughs]

How does this relate to tounge weight and carrying bike racks? I never tow but I do frequently carry bike racks up to 250 lbs. Does the same 75% rule matter when it comes to t tongue weight? Would you expect the same sort of sag from a 220 lb bike rack as a 2200 lb trailer? Thanks!

[@roamingwithjosh]

You could expect the same amount of suspension sag with 220 lb bike rack. The 75% rule more applies to the total trailer weight, not to the tongue weight.

[@NewDoughs]

@@roamingwithjosh Thanks

[@m3rdpwr]

Putting aside what you said about your larger tires than stock. I wonder how the Outback touring XT, would compare to the wilderness model, seen that the wilderness model has different gearing.

[@roamingwithjosh]

That's a great question!

[@StevenZinck]

Great video. I wish I could find a similar video for the Crosstrek Wilderness. It has the same tow capacity as OBW Wilderness but no turbo. Any gut feeling how the Crosstrek Wilderness will tow?

[@roamingwithjosh]

Without the turbo I would be concerned. It makes all the difference in the world when getting up to speed on the highway. I've towed with some dogs of vehicles and that always concerned me.

[@StevenZinck]

@@roamingwithjosh do you know what your tongue weight was?

[@Handcraftedcc]

Awesome video! What do you think is the max weight you should get for a travel RV type trailer? Is a 3100lbs UVW trailer to much?

[@roamingwithjosh]

Would 3100lbs be with all your gear, water, etc?

[@Handcraftedcc]

@@roamingwithjosh empty weight. I watched some of your newer videos and based on those I assume that that would probably be a rather unpleasant experience :D

[@Handcraftedcc]

@@roamingwithjosh What would be the max total weight you would pull "reasonably comfortable"?

[@roamingwithjosh]

I think 2500 would be my max pulling on the road.

[@carlosocsc]

i towed about 2800lbs cross country on a move during the new year snow storm and it handled great the only down sides are the brakes feeling soft with the load and the suspension is a bit floaty but nothing that isn't manageable by a normal person. i only towed about 3 times before this trip

[@roamingwithjosh]

That’s definitely close to the limit, but I could see how the car would do just fine. It’s pretty awesome how well they perform.

[@ThatPNWlyfe]

I like your comprehensive approach. What is the tongue weight of the trailer?

[@roamingwithjosh]

Roughly 10%, I didn’t weigh the tongue and wish I would have.

[@douglassnyder8163]

Thanks

[@rickviavattine7658]

Thanks for the information. I am researching purchasing a 2023 Wilderness outback and towing (approx.) 2250 lbs. Bass Boat. Currently, I'm towing a 2019 GMC Sierra with issues. Max distance would be an occasional 4-6 hour drive. I'd love to know your thoughts? Thanks Rick

[@roamingwithjosh]

Rick, I thought I responded to this already. Apologize for the delay. I think you would be just fine and enjoy much better gas mileage. Towing with a truck is much different then a sedan, but it would handle that load just fine and the turbo would help a lot. I would go test drive one and hook your boat up to it just to be sure you’re ok with it before making the switch.

[@wanglee21]

All Outback are great comfort. I have a 2010 and going off roading feels like driving on cloud. So the big wheels probably reduced the tow mileage by a few miles. But in the end the result is pretty good. I feel the reason for the stronger roof is meant for rooftop tents. There for your mileage wont suffer as great. I picking one up this week. The only towing I'll do is to move large items with a flat tow bed.

[@roamingwithjosh]

Right on! Thanks for the comment!

[@benroehl4412]

Hey Josh thank you! I did search the comments but couldn’t see any information on what size that trailer is?

[@roamingwithjosh]

It's a 5x12

[@benroehl4412]

Wow! I didn’t realize there was a 5X12 made. Thank you!

[@MrFguasp]

I have a 2021 non turbo outback and towed a 2020 tab 320s (1,946 lbs dry weight) camper from New York to Maine and back. Definitely sagged in the rear, so this year I will be installing Rallitek rear overload springs to see if that helps. As for power, there were some steep mountains that we climbed where the car struggled a bit, but fuel economy was good and overall am please with the car. Since we only go camping twice a year or so we decided on the non turbo vs the turbo, but the turbo model would have been way easier.

[@roamingwithjosh]

Right on! Thanks for the comment.

[@nobearclaw7308]

Did you end up installing those rear overload springs? How'd they work out? Thanks

[@novatronss]

I bought a 98 yukon delta enclosed trailer, and my 10 Harley Fatboy. Traveled 500+ miles averaged 18 mpg at 60-65 mph. Total weight under 1400# 17 outback 3.6

[@roamingwithjosh]

Right on!

[@Kdlittle]

Why did you turn off the lane departure while towing or do you usually have it off?

[@roamingwithjosh]

I never have it on. I'm not a fan of those types of safety features.

[@whitneylloyd2191]

I tow a 2015 Coleman Expedition with mine and it works great!!

[@roamingwithjosh]

Awesome! Thanks for the comment!

[@2sully4]

What’s the dry weight on it ?

[@1966stumpjumper]

Great test 👍I had a 2017 Outback with the 3.6r engine, 2” lift with 2 3/8” in the rear. We rented a Tab 320 boondock edition weighting around 2000 lbs. Towing was not great, largely due to the CVT trans. I sold that vehicle because of the lac lusted towing performance. Still a huge subie fan. Please report back on how you feel the CVT is towing with what you have ! I’m actually looking at a converting a small 6x12 cargo trailer into a camper. Also have looked at the tear drop options, thinking of building my own. Up here in Alberta Canada.

[@roamingwithjosh]

I honestly haven’t had any issues with the CVT yet. I know a lot of people don’t like them, but it’s done it’s job pretty well towing. Appreciate the input!

[@xColter]

Josh, do you think it's a bad idea to tow a Winnebago Hike 100 behind the outback wilderness? The Hike 100 has a dry weight of 2700.

[@roamingwithjosh]

You will be pushing your limit, but it will do the job. The biggest issue is the lack of a trailer brake.

[@MrBrandonPetersen]

Great video! Are you getting rubbing with those tires ?

[@roamingwithjosh]

No, sir!

[@carkingspot3973]

Going to go look at the Wilderness today at my local Subaru dealership. Thinking about buying one.

[@roamingwithjosh]

You won’t regret it!

[@carkingspot3973]

@@roamingwithjosh Just test drove the black one (only one they had available), and it drives really nice. Also, in person it looks much higher off the ground.

[@NearlyFromAfar]

Wanted to say that was a really great video. You obviously put a lot of work and thought into it, so kudos on that. I’m getting the sense that they really beefed up the Outback with this Wilderness edition. Saying you have confidence in it during towing is great to hear. I’ve been waffling on whether my next vehicle will be one of the turbo-powered Outbacks or a different vehicle entirely. Might be the Onyx for me though instead of the Wilderness. For some reference, I’ll share my experiences towing with a 2014 Outback 2.5. Towing a utility trailer with no brakes (cargo and trailer weighing ~1000 lbs) feels real nervous. It can get it going just fine, but I never felt like I could stop it in an emergency. We also have a pop up camper. It is an 8 ft box and weighs 1550 lb dry. It has its axle far back, so tongue weight is already at 200 lb w/o anything like propane or stuff loaded on the tongue. It sits lower than the roofline of the OB so its wind resistance is great on the highway. It has new and adjusted electric brakes, I’ve installed a 7 pin proportional controller in the car, as well as a transmission cooler to help the CVT. Only after all those upgrades does the OB give any confidence in towing it around. And even that’s limited by the 2.5 engine. Pretty much have to stay tucked in behind the slowest semis when going up steep grades around Socal. The upside is because it’s not a truck, it gets amazing mileage even with the popup, so you never have to worry about range between destinations. One thing I can recommend, if you haven’t done so already, is get something that can monitor actual CVT temps in real time. I do it with a Scangauge II but there are other options out there. It’s a good idea to know exactly where the CVT temp is while putting it through the loads you sound like you plan to.

[@roamingwithjosh]

I’ve been thinking about that as well as a CVT cooler for the warmer months. The larger brakes on the OBW really helped with slowing everything down and made for a pretty decent experience on our cross country trip. Overload springs is a must for us because of the 200lb + tongue weight of the camper. Appreciate the comment!

[@NearlyFromAfar]

@@roamingwithjosh I thought the turbo OB's like yours and the Onyx already had a trans cooler in front of the radiator...? Definitely get some kind of monitor, it helps with peace of mind. Besides CVT and engine coolant temps (among a dozen other parameters), It can also tell you how much slip your torque converter is undergoing, all the way to full lockup. Very useful when rock crawling because all that slipping generates heat real fast. Cheers! (*edit: spelling)

[@roamingwithjosh]

We appreciate the info and I will add that to the list!

[@suzannecartwright6504]

Wow. Thank you so much for your thorough report on your 2014 Outback towing experience. I just (reluctantly) replaced my 2014 Outback’s CVT and was thinking of buying a small trailer like his Homesteader to pull behind it. With the wonky breaking situation you described, I’m reconsidering it now. I thought perhaps I’d try one of those tiny U-Haul trailers first to see what it’s like -sort of a “test drive” before I buy anything.

[@NearlyFromAfar]

@@suzannecartwright6504 You're welcome! Sorry to hear you had to replace your CVT. What happened to it, if you don't mind sharing. Regarding towing a U-Haul trailer to test things out, it's a hit-or-miss idea. From my experience of renting them, the enclosed-box U-haul trailers (even the single axle) are equipped with surge brakes. If you're not familiar with them, surge brakes are self-contained systems with no need for electrical signal from the tow car. They work when the tow car slows down, and the trailer's momentum pushes it against the hitch ball. That push in turn will compress a brake cylinder on the trailer that compresses the brakes. In short, the trailer will brake itself when you hit your car's brakes. With all that said, it might not be the test you're looking for. But you could ask U-haul if they have any small trailers with no brakes. That would work better for your idea. At the end of the day, our base Outbacks really aren't made for confident towing, though some modifications can be done to help their case.

[@jqentertainment6966]

I tried towing a small camper with my Outback, but it didn't like it. So, I got a GX460 to tow a RV with

[@roamingwithjosh]

GX460 is a great rig

[@NitroRoo]

Really great info and test! I've got an Onyx XT and am shopping for a camper. 3500lb tow rating does limit your choices - and one thing you didn't specifically mention was tongue weight, which for our cars is rated for 350lbs. I've found some trailers are within that 75-80% of the tow rating but come too close to or exceed the tongue weight rating. Hoping to find the perfect camper for us (2 adults and two collies) soon!

[@roamingwithjosh]

Awesome stuff and good luck!

[@wilhitefamily5572]

Tongue weight is about 200 pounds. That is with a 40 pound tank ad moved the spare tire to the back. I can send a few pictures tomorrow if you want

[@wilhitefamily5572]

The sunset rv sunray 149 might be a good choice. Room for two and dogs

[@nobearclaw7308]

@@wilhitefamily5572 Do you tow that camper with your subaru? I'm looking for a camper now and have the 22 outback wilderness

[@tadstertrolley7770]

We are finally getting the 2.4 turbo outback in Australia for 2023, but our tow rating is 5300lbs and towball download is 530lbs, I wonder if this is just jurisdiction or if there are mechanical differences.

[@ElGancho08]

What your MPG like after adding the bigger tires?

[@roamingwithjosh]

19.8

[@kevin00271871]

What Hitch setup do you have? Factory hitch system, aftermarket...what brand?

[@roamingwithjosh]

I have the factory hitch from subaru

[@PatriotSteve]

@@roamingwithjoshdoes the factory hitch have chain holes where i can connect the safety chains from my jetski trailer?

[@jenniferyakumo2272]

I would love to hear more about its towing performance on an uphill climb.

[@roamingwithjosh]

it did very well on the uphill. The turbo makes all the difference in the world in those situations.

[@SD_HUNTING_FISHING]

I would add an equalizer hitch to level out the vehicle and trailer if towing at greater than 70% of the weight rating. This would reduce the lift on the front end of the vehicle and the “V” between the trailer and vehicle. If the trailer is taller and wider than the outback I would also add a sway bar. If the trailer is equipped with brakes have a e-brake installed.

[@wilhitefamily5572]

My mileage averages about 18 a gallon on the highway. The sunray 109 is a little lower profile than most trailers. This is beneficial for mileage and handling

[@wilhitefamily5572]

I have black rhino offsets with 8 ply bfg all terrains. With stock wheels and tires I was at about 19 miles per gallon . I have a seven pin connector with a power wire from the battery 30 Amp to power brakes. Works great

[@alexmedeiros9306]

My wife and i are about to move from southernCalifornia to northern Washington. And hoping we are fine with towing a 5x8 trailer with our 2015 4cly outback. We dont have a lot. No furnature and only 1 bed apt.

[@roamingwithjosh]

Just try and stay within that weight limit and you should be fine.

[@Timetravel1111]

Question 🙋‍♀️ where can I get the tow- kit/hitch Suburu outback

[@roamingwithjosh]

Contact your dealer for that.

[@Timetravel1111]

@@roamingwithjosh they’re all sold out all over. I went to O’Reillys. Ended up finding a guy that install them so he’s gonna use a set up of his own and I’m gonna return the one I got it ORiley‘s.

[@troytdesigns1]

I tow a Taxa Outdoors Woolly Bear (1,270lbs dry weight) with my Onyx XT which is also lifted, rear overload sprints, wheels, tires, etc etc. The more I went up hill I got about 17.7mpg but the best I've gotten on the flat at 65mph is 19.1mpg

[@roamingwithjosh]

I'm getting under that when towing, but after the lift, tires etc, I'm getting just over 19. Thanks for the info!

[@johnfoster8968]

Can a 7 wire connector and brake controller be installed in Subaru Wilderness?

[@roamingwithjosh]

Yep it can, i'll be installing one.

[@mariner3485]

@@roamingwithjosh Please do a video on that 7 wire upgrade! I think the 4 wire is all I'll ever need, but since I just got my 2021 Limited XT Outback, my trailer hitch is still on backorder - so I'm waiting until I can tow my sailboat (approx 1,500# + trailer = approx 2,000#). Great video! I'm also interested in what else you will be using that hitch for. My Outback is not a Wilderness, but is close enough for me. I will be following your progress!

[@ImaYam]

I tod a 4000 uhaul 8x12 with my base crosstrek stick from Miami to poconos and had massive sway if going over 70 so I kept it at 55. I wouldn’t do it again but it was fine lol very stressfull first time towing

[@roamingwithjosh]

LOL that's a big trailer for a small car. Glad you made it safely!

[@user-fx1kk1bv2v]

I have a 2022 Subaru forester wilderness what can it tow?

[@roamingwithjosh]

Not sure

[@larplabs7679]

Did your trailer have brakes for this drive with a brake controller?

[@roamingwithjosh]

I did not

[@larplabs7679]

@@roamingwithjosh thanks for replying to the bad question, I typed it before I got to the in depth coverage on that later in the video. Thanks for all the content. It's been helpful as I consider a 24 obw

[@relaxation2380]

I've been towing a waverunner with a xl thule cargo carrier for a while and now I've added a kayak

[@roamingwithjosh]

Right on!

[@relaxation2380]

@@roamingwithjosh it's pretty impressive how much it can handle

[@roamingwithjosh]

We agree!

[@ventureofalifetime8282]

Hey brother. Im revamping my YT channel and was also going to talk about towing with the subaru and tear drops. Ive talked with you on instagram a few times but thanks for the help!

[@roamingwithjosh]

Anytime, Kolby. With you the best with the revamp!

[@dbmiller5881]

Interesting with your attention to details, you didn't delve into the tongue weight of the trailer? Especially when loading the seats and back like that, the tongue weight could have exceeded the GVW of the vehicle. This also could have had an effect on your sag measurements.

[@roamingwithjosh]

Traditionally tongue weight is 10% or less of a trailer when it’s properly loaded as long as you know what you’re doing you can get that number without having to weight it.

[@PennsylvaniaDualSport]

A trailer with a GVW of 2,000 pounds or more should have come with trailer brakes. I’m glad you mentioned that it has a 4 pin. I currently tow a lightweight aluminum open trailer with motorcycles using a 2018 Crosstrek. Loaded the trailer is 1000 or less depending on bikes with a 70 pound tongue weight. We’d like to eventually move to an enclosed trailer which means upgrading to the Outback if we want to stick with the brand. The Aspen is out of the question lol. Also towing with the Outback Wilderness will yield better acceleration than another outback with the same 2.4 as the Wilderness has a lower axle gear ratio. The only thing I’m really concerned about is continually towing with yet another CVT vehicle

[@roamingwithjosh]

Yea I agree with the brakes. The OBW does great towing and once I get some better rear springs I think I will be really happy with it. Thanks for the comment!

[@alejandropmorcate]

Great content. Really enjoy your channel. I don't know about the Outback Wilderness, but I drive an Ascent and even though the tow rating is 5000lbs, Subaru's manual says that trailer brakes are required for anything above 1000lbs. Many trailers under 3000lbs sold in the US don't have brakes, so that is a problem for a lot of people. Subaru does not take their engineering lightly, so if they specify that a trailer gross weight over 1000lbs requires trailer brakes, I would follow that requirement. I tow a small boat ~1000lbs over a mountain pass and can say that even though the acceleration and torque from that fantastic FA24 are solid, the braking feeling going down the hill (even with engine braking) does not inspire the same confidence. Safe travels!

[@roamingwithjosh]

I absolutely agree with what you're saying. For whatever reason that specific trailer doesn't have brakes and surprisingly the OBW did really well. For one reason or another, the trailer hitch receiver and wiring the dealership puts on is a 4 pin and doesn't have the ability to control the brakes. Strange they would do that knowing the vehicle can tow more. Thanks for the input!

[@bradleyjenkins4709]

Can it tow a fully loaded 5x8 U-Haul?

[@roamingwithjosh]

Depends on how much it weighs.

[@jowens4883]

The only draw back that seems to be existing with the Outback is the price and dealers not being willing to negotiate. Once you get into the $38k & above price range, there is so much to choose from, IE Ford Escape PHEV (with tax incentive taken into consideration) that get's you 52mph, 38 mile all electric range. But is much slower than an XT, But then you look at the Escape 2.0L motor and that is easily as fast as the XT if not faster (I had 2017 Escape with 2.0 and that was rocket when you needed it). But can be much cheaper. The interiors are no comparison on upper range between the escape and Outback. That is main reason I am considering the Outback because of its interior quality.

[@roamingwithjosh]

There’s just so much more to the choice other than gas mileage. The off-road capability of an escape can’t compare to an Outback of any trim. The gas mileage is probably just something your mentioning in an effort to not write a novel, but if that isn’t the case then the Outback is leaps and bounds ahead of the escape.

[@Databyter]

Well, one of the downsides for me with the Wilderness was the inability to go with smaller wheels because of the massive new disc brake system on it. So I am pleasantly absorbing the news about how well it brakes with that much weight and work. There is a silver lining. They wanted the big brakes because it IS a vehicle that is touted to carry things and tow, and it has a torquey for its size turbo motor. Looks like the brakes did their job at least. Still it woulda been nice to be able to put smaller wheels and higher sidewalls. I guess Subaru made the right compromise. You can't please all factors all the time. At least it's not riding on 18's or 19's, and at least it has some really effective brakes that should also come in extrememly handy on steep offroad grades, especially when loaded down. They say mine is coming SOMETIME in January. We shall see. By the way, do you really get a lot of use out of those alley lights? Are they worth it? Do you ever use them in every day situations or just offroad, camping etc. Databyter

[@roamingwithjosh]

I will say that I’m happy about the brake size and although a meaty tire would be nice, the ones I have should be more than enough for about any terrain. I don’t use them in everyday use, but they’re extremely valuable for those few times you do need them.

[@suzannecartwright6504]

Hi! Just wondering, what is an “alley light”?

[@wkw4095]

Will you be towing the camper?

[@roamingwithjosh]

I'll be towing something... Stay tuned!

[@bobbyceja1]

Is that the OEM tow hitch?

[@roamingwithjosh]

it is

[@nfprojectshop]

The bad part of tow sag is that you will have less traction on the front steer tires and not be able to maneuver out of a situation quickly.

[@roamingwithjosh]

Agreed

[@rockingrogershomestead]

Do you have an XT?

[@rockingrogershomestead]

Nvm. I heard you say turbo.

[@redrum1955]

You also have head lights no longer poin properly

[@roamingwithjosh]

That's a really good point. Thank you for mentioning that.

[@saabyurk]

Australians don't seem to be so cautious. A 2022 Outback with 2.5 NA is rated to tow 4400 lb. I think he got it up to 70 mph but it didn't look too stable: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eoCXanWEmduBh5o

[@ingridmatschke]

Just a FYI, all Subarus come with a warning in the manufacturer's user's manual never to exceed 80kph .. in ANY Subaru since about 2000.

[@jereldonovan834]

I have gone down the rabbit hole of GVWR, GCWR, GAWR yada yada yada and even tire weight ratings. It definitely gets complicated but is also quite interesting IMO. I'm still trying to absorb things so forgive me if I get something wrong but... People always keep focused on their towing limits but almost always exceed their payload limits, payload is what you need to keep an eye on it seems. I would argue you probably exceeded your 900lb payload limit. Without rewatching your video I belive you put in around 370lbs of weight, plus your bodyweight of I'm guessing 200 we are now up to 570lbs. IF your trailer is properly balanced (IF) with 40% of its weight behind the axle and 60% in front of the axle they you would have a tounge weight of 10-15% of your trailers weight, giving us a tounge of 220-330lbs. If we go in the middle at 275lbs plus your already 570lbs we are up to 845lb, that's damn close. That doesn't even include your roof rack system and all your overlanding gear. Since you live so close to a weigh station I'd look into your cars weight when it's truly loaded for a road trip and also measure your tounge weight, then crunch the numbers. I also want to make clear that even if you do go over I believe that what you are doing is safe, if you look at the same vehicles limits in Australia or Europe you will see greatly higher numbers, the vehicle is safe. The reason I tiptoe around these numbers is because I don't trust insurance companies and I want to make sure if something happens I'm not liable. I'm definitely going to be re watching this video to see if I missed anything, I have a Wilderness inbound and will be towing, thanks for this.

[@roamingwithjosh]

Thanks for the thought out comment and explanation! There are several nuances of towing that unfortunately if you haven't towed a lot, you may never even think of. At this point I feel good about taking the set up across country with my family and I can guaranty when I return I will be making some changes. Thanks again!

[@immachine1565]

Did u put makeup on lolol u look like mac from its always sunny when the did the free tv channel

[@roamingwithjosh]

No, no make up.

[@IronmanV5]

Safe Travels

[@roamingwithjosh]

Thank you, sir!

[@piratedust5761]

Rather than talking we need more visuals! Thanks

[@roamingwithjosh]

It’s hard to provide visuals with numerically technical information. Thanks!

[@grzegorzlecki3139]

This could have been a 5 minutes video. So much fluff!

[@roamingwithjosh]

You’re welcome

[@MrModerndaydrifter]

How about a 2200lb boat? You seemed hesitant about boats.

[@roamingwithjosh]

I'm not hesitant at all when it comes to towing. Although a 22,000 lb boat sounds like a big boat.

[@MrModerndaydrifter]

@@roamingwithjosh 2,200 pounds