What size mattress can fit in a Subaru Crosstrek?
For most Crosstrek configurations, a standard twin mattress is the most reliable fit when the rear seats are folded. A full or larger mattress is generally not a clean flat fit in the unmodified cargo area, and a queen or larger is unlikely to fit without compromises. Exact fit varies by model year and how you arrange the seats.
Understanding Crosstrek cargo dimensions and how they affect mattress sizes
The key measurements to consider are the width between the wheel wells, the overall cargo width, and the load length with rear seats folded. In common Crosstrek configurations, you can expect roughly 40 inches of width between the wheel wells, about 44 inches of cargo opening width, and a flat load length of around 74–75 inches when the rear seats are folded. These figures help explain why certain mattress sizes fit more neatly than others.
Here's a quick guide by mattress size:
Twin and Twin XL mattresses — A standard twin mattress (38" wide x 75" long) fits across the cargo width, and many owners report it works well with the rear seats folded. A Twin XL (38" x 80") is also possible, but it is a tight squeeze and may require moving the front seat forward or slight angling of the mattress.
Full/double mattress — A full (54" wide x 75" long) is much wider than the Crosstrek’s cargo width and generally won’t lay flat across the opening. It could be accommodated only with diagonal placement or by compromising the seat configuration, which is not ideal for most travelers.
Queen and larger mattresses — Queen (60" x 80") and larger sizes are typically not feasible to fit flat in a Crosstrek’s cargo area. Some users attempt diagonal placement or use inflatable/air mattresses, but a standard queen is unlikely to fit without significant alteration.
Bottom line: if you’re relying on the Crosstrek for mattress transport, a twin or twin XL is the most practical option in most setups, with full and larger sizes posing serious fit challenges.
Practical tips for maximizing fit
These tips help you gauge how to load a mattress and what to expect in real-world use:
- Measure your own cargo length with the rear seats folded flat to confirm the exact available distance before buying a mattress.
- Keep the mattress in a protective cover to simplify loading and unloading and to protect the interior.
- Remove the mattress with the least resistance by folding both rear seats and, if comfortable and safe, sliding the mattress through the hatch at an angle rather than trying to fit it perfectly flat.
- Consider using a high-quality, packable air mattress or foam topper as an alternative when traveling light or needing a quick sleep space.
- If you regularly need longer sleep surfaces, you might explore a small roof cargo carrier or a bed platform that allows longer items to extend beyond the trunk, though this changes vehicle handling and weather exposure.
These practical steps can help you maximize the available space and avoid forcing a mattress into a configuration that could damage the interior or be uncomfortable.
Summary
In short, a twin mattress is the most reliable choice for a Subaru Crosstrek with the rear seats down. A Twin XL may also work but is tighter, and full or larger mattresses generally don’t fit flat across the cargo area. Always measure your specific model year and seating arrangement before purchasing, and consider alternatives like inflatable mattresses or temporary sleep setups for longer trips.
Can a queen size mattress fit in a Subaru?
Yes! But to be fair it was a new boxed memory foam mattress. You might be able to fit one in unboxed, if it's flexible enough, but likely not one with springs or a box spring.
What is the best mattress for a Subaru Crosstrek?
The most popular air mattress for Subaru Crosstreks is the Luno 2.0 for Subaru Crosstrek.
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.
- 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.
Is there room to sleep in a Subaru Crosstrek?
Yes, you can definitely sleep in a Subaru Crosstrek! When you fold down the back seats, you get about 51.9 cubic feet of space. This creates a sleeping area about 66 inches long and 41 inches wide.
