What Crosstrek can tow 3500 lbs?
In short: no. A Subaru Crosstrek is not rated to tow 3,500 pounds; its official maximum towing capacity is about 1,500 pounds when properly equipped.
Why the Crosstrek can't tow 3,500 pounds
The Crosstrek is built as a compact crossover with a small-displacement engine, lightweight chassis, and modest braking hardware. Towing at 3,500 pounds would demand a more powerful drivetrain, stronger frame, heavier-duty suspension, and higher-capacity brakes than the Crosstrek is designed to provide. Towing ratings are set to protect vehicle safety, handling, and warranty coverage, and they take into account weight distribution, hitch requirements, and braking needs. In practice, these limits mean the Crosstrek’s trailer weight stays well below 3,500 pounds.
Key factors that limit towing on the Crosstrek
The official rating reflects several drivetrain and safety considerations, including engine torque, transmission type, braking capability, cooling, and overall vehicle weight limits. Even with a hitch and wiring, the Crosstrek remains within a modest towing envelope that does not reach 3,500 pounds.
Official towing capacity and how it applies to Crosstreks
Before considering lists, note the core fact: the Crosstrek’s towing capacity is limited to about 1,500 pounds when equipped with the factory tow hitch and required components. This rating is consistent across most model years and trims that offer the tow package or hitch option. Always verify the exact figure for your specific year, engine, and equipment at the owner's manual or Subaru’s official specification page.
Below is a quick look at the official capacity and related caveats that apply to Crosstreks.
- Maximum towing capacity is 1,500 pounds with proper equipment (factory hitch and wiring, and braking as required).
- Not all Crosstrek trims offer the tow package or wiring harness; the towing option is not standard on every model.
- The rating assumes using the correct hitch, trailer wiring, and, if required by your trailer, trailer brakes and lighting.
Concluding the above: The Crosstrek cannot legitimately tow 3,500 pounds. If you need to tow that much regularly, you’ll want a larger, higher-capacity Subaru model or another brand that offers a higher tow rating.
Subaru models that can tow 3,500 pounds or more
For those who must tow around 3,500 pounds, the Crosstrek isn’t the right fit. Some Subaru models offer higher towing capacities, with exact numbers varying by year, engine, and equipment. Below are two examples commonly cited as capable of at least 3,500 pounds when properly equipped, followed by a note to check year-specific specs.
- Subaru Outback — commonly rated up to 3,500 pounds with the appropriate hitch and braking setup.
- Subaru Ascent — rated up to 5,000 pounds, depending on year and configuration.
Concluding the list: If your towing needs are around 3,500 pounds, consider the Outback or the Ascent rather than the Crosstrek, and always confirm the exact rating for your model year and trim with official documentation.
How to verify towing numbers for your vehicle
To be certain about what your Crosstrek can or cannot tow, follow these steps:
- Check the owner’s manual for the official tow rating and any year-specific notes.
- Look at the door jamb or fuel-filler door placard for the GVWR/GCWR and the recommended towing limits.
- Verify with Subaru’s official website or a dealership for the exact year and trim you own or are considering.
- Ensure you have the correct factory tow hitch and wiring harness if towing is advised, and be aware of trailer brake requirements where applicable.
Concluding: Always use the officially published numbers for your exact year and configuration, and plan payload, hitch weight, and trailer brakes accordingly to stay within safe limits.
Summary
The Subaru Crosstrek does not come close to towing 3,500 pounds. Its practical limit hovers around 1,500 pounds when properly equipped. If you routinely need to tow 3,500 pounds, look at higher-tow-capacity Subaru models such as the Outback (up to 3,500 pounds) or the Ascent (up to 5,000 pounds), and confirm the exact rating for your year and trim. Always consult official documentation and use safe towing practices, including appropriate hitches, trailer brakes, and weight calculations that account for passengers, cargo, and hitch weight.
