Can you add a trailer hitch to a Subaru Crosstrek?

Yes. You can add a trailer hitch to a Subaru Crosstrek, either through Subaru’s factory tow package or via aftermarket hitch options. When properly equipped, the Crosstrek can tow up to 1,500 pounds, making it suitable for light trailers, bike racks, and small campers. This article outlines your options, what you’ll need, and key considerations for installation and safety.

Whether you’re planning to haul a bike rack, a small trailer, or camping gear, the Crosstrek’s towing capability depends on the year and trim. Below you’ll find an overview of factory and aftermarket options, what each entails, and practical steps to install and use a hitch safely.

Tow hitch options for the Crosstrek

The Crosstrek can be equipped with a trailer hitch in one of two broad ways: a factory tow package or a reputable aftermarket hitch. Each option has its own setup, warranty implications, and installation considerations.

• Factory tow package: An official Subaru option that adds a 2-inch hitch receiver and a compatible wiring harness. It is typically installed or certified by a Subaru dealer and ensures alignment with Subaru’s towing guidelines.


• Aftermarket hitch: A range of 2-inch Class III hitches from brands such as Curt, Draw-Tite, Reese, and Tow Ready. These bolt to the Crosstrek’s frame and are a common route for models without the factory tow package.

Availability can vary by model year, trim, and region. Always confirm compatibility with your specific Crosstrek and check current towing specifications with Subaru or your dealer before purchasing or installing.

Factory tow package details

The factory tow package is designed to integrate with the Crosstrek’s electrical system and hitch mounting points. It typically includes a 2-inch receiver, a wiring harness, and the hardware needed for a clean, weather-resistant connection. This option often aligns with the vehicle’s warranty and service expectations, since Subaru provides the installation and confirms the towing rating for your configuration.

Because this is an official option, it’s wise to consult a Subaru dealer to verify that your model year and trim can be equipped with the tow package and to understand any related warranty coverage or restrictions.

What you’ll need for towing (aftermarket and factory options)

Before you attach a trailer to your Crosstrek, you’ll need to assemble a few core components. The exact items depend on whether you’re starting with the factory tow package or an aftermarket setup.

• Trailer hitch receiver: A 2-inch Class III receiver is standard for Crosstrek towing.


• Wiring harness: A trailer lighting harness compatible with your trailer’s lighting system (common options include 4-pin and, in some setups, additional connectors).


• Ball mount and hitch ball: Sized to match your trailer’s coupler (commonly 1-7/8" or 2" balls).


• Towing accessories: Safety chains, hitch pin/lock, and, if required by your trailer, a brake controller (often needed for larger trailers or in areas with strict regulations).

Note that exact components and configurations can vary by year and by whether you’re using the factory tow package or an aftermarket kit. Always verify that your chosen components meet Subaru’s towing rating for your specific vehicle.

Installation considerations and steps

Installing a hitch—whether factory or aftermarket—follows similar principles, but the process and warranty implications differ. The steps below provide a general outline for aftermarket installations and what to discuss with a dealer if you’re using the factory option.

1. Verify your Crosstrek’s year, trim, and tow rating with Subaru or your dealer to ensure compatibility and safe towing limits.


2. Choose the right hitch and wiring kit for your trailer and driving needs. If unsure, consult a professional installer.


3. Prepare the vehicle: parking brake engaged, wheels straight, and exhaust clearance checked; some installations may require lowering the exhaust or removing panels for access.


4. Attach the hitch to the frame using the supplied hardware, tightening bolts to the specified torque and ensuring proper alignment and clearance.


5. Install the wiring harness and route it to the rear of the vehicle, avoiding hot surfaces, moving parts, and pinch points; test all trailer lights before towing.


6. Test the overall system with the trailer attached in a safe area, checking lights, hitch security, and clearance during turns and in reverse.

A professional installation can reduce the risk of misalignment or wiring issues. After installation, inspect the mount periodically and follow maintenance recommendations from the hitch and wiring manufacturers.

Safety and usage considerations

Towing with a Crosstrek requires careful adherence to weight limits and safety practices. Below are key factors to consider to help prevent damage and improve handling on the road.

• Adhere to the official towing limit: up to 1,500 pounds gross trailer weight when properly equipped. Do not exceed this rating for any load.


• Weight distribution and trailer braking: Ensure proper tongue weight and, if your trailer has its own brakes, verify whether a brake controller is needed or recommended by local regulations.


• Driving adjustments: Allow for longer stopping distances, reduced acceleration, and altered handling due to the added trailer. Practice turns and parking with the trailer attached.


• Maintenance and inspections: Regularly inspect the hitch, wiring, and tires for wear or damage, and ensure the lights and brakes function correctly on the trailer.

For most users, using a reputable hitch and wiring kit installed by a qualified technician provides the best balance of safety, reliability, and warranty coverage.

Summary

In short, yes—the Subaru Crosstrek can be equipped with a trailer hitch. You have two main paths: the factory tow package, which offers a factory-integrated solution and warranty alignment, or a range of aftermarket 2-inch Class III hitches from trusted brands. With proper equipment and adherence to the 1,500-pound towing limit, the Crosstrek can haul light trailers, bike racks, and small campers. Always verify compatibility for your specific model year, follow installation best practices, and prioritize safety and local regulations.

How much is a hitch for a Subaru Crosstrek?

The cost to install a hitch on a Subaru Crosstrek typically ranges from $300 to $800, depending on the parts and labor involved.

Why is Subaru discontinuing the Crosstrek?

Subaru is not discontinuing the Crosstrek model line entirely, but the Crosstrek Hybrid (PHEV) was discontinued in the U.S. due to slow sales and Subaru's strategic shift toward new hybrid and electric vehicle (EV) platforms that will be shared with Toyota. Subaru is still producing the standard Crosstrek and is developing new hybrid and EV models based on its new Global Platform, which will offer a new hybrid system for the Crosstrek in the future. The discontinuation of the manual transmission option was also driven by declining demand. 
This video discusses the reasons behind the discontinuation of the Crosstrek Hybrid and Subaru's future plans for electrification: 46sAlex PrestigiacomoYouTube · Jun 9, 2025

• Hybrid model discontinued: The Crosstrek Plug-In Hybrid was dropped after a short run in the U.S. because it only accounted for a small percentage of total sales. 
• Strategic shift to new platforms: Subaru is focusing on developing new hybrid and EV models using its new Global Platform, which is designed to accommodate these powertrains. The company is working with Toyota on future EV platforms to improve profitability and innovation. 
• Manual transmission phased out: The manual transmission option was discontinued due to declining sales, as a small percentage of buyers opted for it compared to automatic transmissions. 
• Standard Crosstrek remains available: The gasoline-powered Crosstrek continues to be a popular and available model. 
• Future hybrid return: Subaru has stated that it will launch a new hybrid Crosstrek in the future, likely with a new hybrid system and on the new Global Platform. 

This video explains the changes coming to the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek, including updates to the powertrain options: 55sAlex PrestigiacomoYouTube · Nov 4, 2024

Can I add a hitch to my Subaru Crosstrek?

Yes, you can put a 2-inch hitch on a Subaru Crosstrek. Keep in mind that the hitch's weight capacity might be higher than the vehicle's towing capacity, but that doesn't mean the vehicle can tow more. You must always abide by the lowest-rated towing component whether that's your car, hitch, or accessory.

How much does it cost to have a trailer hitch installed?

To get this extra capacity, a hitch needs to be bolted to your frame that allows a trailer to be connected to your vehicle. What does trailer hitch installation cost? There's a large range in price from around $250 to $1,300 or more. Naturally, it varies depending on the vehicle and the type and class of hitch.