What is the weight capacity of a Subaru crosstrek?
The Crosstrek’s usable weight varies by year and trim, but in general it supports a payload of about 1,000–1,300 pounds, can tow up to 1,500 pounds with the right hitch and equipment, and sits in the 3,100–3,400-pound curb weight range with a gross vehicle weight rating around 4,400–4,500 pounds. Exact figures depend on model year and configuration.
What weight capacity means for the Crosstrek
Weight capacity is a cluster of related measurements that tell you how much you can load into the vehicle and what you can tow. These figures influence everyday cargo, passenger loads, and how much you can pull behind the Crosstrek. The key numbers are payload, towing capacity, curb weight, and GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating).
Key weight metrics you should know
Below is a concise guide to the main weight-related figures you’ll encounter when evaluating a Crosstrek. The values are approximate and vary by year, drivetrain, and trim; consult the door sticker and owner's manual for exact figures on a given vehicle.
- Payload capacity: roughly 1,000–1,300 pounds (includes passengers and cargo; varies with trim and equipment).
- Curb weight: typically about 3,100–3,400 pounds (the weight of the vehicle without passengers or cargo, depending on year and configuration).
- GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating): generally in the 4,400–4,500 pound range (maximum allowable combined weight of vehicle, passengers, cargo, and accessories).
- Towing capacity: up to 1,500 pounds with proper equipment (hitch, wiring, and braking as required); actual capacity can vary by year and drivetrain.
Concretely, these figures define how much you can carry safely and what kind of trailer you can pull. Always verify the exact numbers for your specific Crosstrek using official documentation and your vehicle’s door jamb sticker.
How to verify the exact numbers for your Crosstrek
Because Subaru updates specifications and options across model years, the most reliable way to know your Crosstrek’s precise limits is to check the official documentation for your year and trim, and to read the sticker on your vehicle.
- Check the door jamb sticker on the driver’s side: it lists GVWR and sometimes payload estimates for your exact vehicle.
- Consult the owner’s manual: it provides detailed definitions and the recommended towing limits for your drivetrain configuration.
- Review the window sticker for new purchases or Subaru’s official spec sheets for your model year: these will show the factory-rated GVWR and towing capacity.
- If planning a trailer, verify hitch and braking requirements meet or exceed the stated towing capacity, and ensure you have the appropriate trailer wiring and lighting.
- Compute your usable payload: payload = GVWR – curb weight – optional aftermarket gear; keep within the published limit to avoid overloading.
Verifying these figures before loading or towing helps prevent overloading, protects safety, and preserves vehicle warranty and performance.
Summary
For most Subaru Crosstrek models, you can expect a payload around 1,000–1,300 pounds, a towing capacity up to 1,500 pounds with proper equipment, a curb weight near 3,100–3,400 pounds, and a GVWR around 4,400–4,500 pounds. Exact numbers vary by year, trim, and drivetrain, so always consult the owner’s manual and the vehicle’s door sticker for the precise specifications on your Crosstrek. Understanding these limits helps you plan safe cargo loads and towing operations.
