I believe the cvt transmission was the reasoning behind the reduced towing rating for 2014+. 2011-2013 have the same engine as the 2014+, but have a 2400lb towing capacity with the 4 speed auto transmission..so the only real change was the cvt. My 2011 tows 1000-1500lbs safely without trailer brakes even at 5k-8k altitude and up/down mountain passes (albeit very slowly on the way up), so the FB2.5 engine isn't the limiting factor. You just have to make a decision about how tough you think the cvt transmission is.
Maybe figure out how much your 5x8 trailer actually weighs, whether or not you'll be towing up/down hills, how far and at what speeds, the condition of your brakes/suspension, etc, and then make a determination as to what you're comfortable towing with. You could also get a newer Outback which has a 2700lb towing capacity.
Note to all: I'm ignoring the legal aspect of the decision and just speaking to what the car is physically capable of.
Maybe figure out how much your 5x8 trailer actually weighs, whether or not you'll be towing up/down hills, how far and at what speeds, the condition of your brakes/suspension, etc, and then make a determination as to what you're comfortable towing with. You could also get a newer Outback which has a 2700lb towing capacity.
Note to all: I'm ignoring the legal aspect of the decision and just speaking to what the car is physically capable of.