What size wheels for Subaru Crosstrek?
The correct wheel size for a Subaru Crosstrek depends on the model year and trim level. In general, Crosstreks use 16-, 17-, or 18-inch wheels, with a common bolt pattern of 5x100 and a center bore around 56.6 mm. Always verify the exact specifications for your specific vehicle via the door jamb sticker or the owner's manual.
How wheel sizes vary by year and trim
To understand what wheels came standard or as options, it helps to know the typical diameter ranges used across Crosstrek generations. The following breakdown describes common stock sizes by era, noting that exact fitment can vary by package and market.
- 16-inch wheels are typically found on base and some mid-level Crosstrek trims.
- 17-inch wheels are common on many mid- to higher-trim models, often paired with upgraded tires.
- 18-inch wheels appear on select trims and special editions, usually with sportier or premium packages.
When shopping for wheels or tires, confirm the precise size for your year and trim, as Subaru occasionally updates factory configurations between model years and regional markets.
Key measurements to know before buying wheels
Before choosing aftermarket or replacement wheels, certain specifications determine fitment and safety. The essential measurements are listed below to help you compare options accurately.
- Bolt pattern (PCD): 5x100 for most Crosstrek models.
- Center bore: 56.6 mm (alters hub centering; aftermarket hubs may require spacers or adapters).
- Offset: typically in a mid-range, roughly +40 to +50 mm, depending on wheel width and year.
- Wheel width: commonly between 6.5 and 7.5 inches, with wider wheels affecting clearance and ride characteristics.
Knowing these specs helps ensure a wheel will mount correctly, clear the brake components, and maintain proper handling and speedometer accuracy.
Practical considerations when upgrading wheels
Upgrading wheel size can change several vehicle dynamics, so it’s important to plan for clearance, gearing, and safety. The following points cover practical implications and best practices.
- Maintain overall tire diameter close to stock to preserve speedometer accuracy and gearing. A change of more than a percent or two can affect acceleration and fuel economy.
- Check brake caliper and suspension clearance to avoid rubbing at full steering lock or during suspension travel.
- Ensure the wheel offset and width do not push the tires into the fenders or into components like control arms or struts.
- Choose tires with an aspect ratio that helps keep the overall diameter within 1–2% of stock for optimal ABS, traction control, and ride quality.
- Verify load rating and speed rating match or exceed OEM specifications, especially if the Crosstrek is used for towing or carrying heavier loads.
Following these guidelines helps preserve safety, maintain factory feel, and minimize unintended changes to ride quality and performance.
Frequently asked questions
Can I install 18-inch wheels on all Crosstrek models without issues?
Not always. While some trims and packages support 18-inch wheels, others may experience clearance issues with brakes, suspension, or fender clearance. Always check your year’s wheel chart and measure or test-fit a true 18-inch wheel with the correct offset for your specific model.
Will changing wheel size affect fuel economy or acceleration?
Yes. Larger or wider wheels can increase rolling resistance and unsprung weight, which may reduce acceleration slightly and impact fuel economy. To minimize effects, keep overall diameter close to stock and select wheels and tires designed for lightness and efficiency.
Does upgrading wheels affect the Crosstrek’s warranty or safety systems?
Modifications can affect warranty coverage and how safety systems react if the wheel/tire package deviates significantly from factory specs. Consult Subaru’s official guidance or a certified installer to ensure compatibility and to avoid triggering warranty exclusions.
Summary
The Subaru Crosstrek accommodates several wheel sizes across its lineage—most commonly 16, 17, or 18 inches—with a 5x100 bolt pattern and a 56.6 mm hub bore. When selecting wheels, verify the exact year/trim specifications, pay attention to offset and width, and consider the impact on clearance and overall diameter. Upgrading wheels can enhance style and performance, but it requires careful matching of diameter, offset, and tire size to maintain safety, handling, and accuracy of vehicle systems.
What size rims for Subaru Crosstrek?
Subaru Crosstrek GU 2.0 e-Boxer (5AA-GUD)
| Tire | Rim | Backspacing mm inches |
|---|---|---|
| OE 225/55R18 98H | 7Jx18 ET55 | 157 6.18 |
| 245/55R17 98H | 7.5Jx17 ET55 | 163 6.42 |
| 245/50R18 97H | 7.5Jx18 ET55 | 163 6.42 |
| 245/45R19 95V | 8Jx19 ET48 | 162 6.38 |
What size tires are on a Subaru Crosstrek?
Common Subaru Crosstrek tire sizes include 225/55R17, 225/60R17, and 225/55R18, with the specific size depending on the model year and trim level.
- 225/55R17: Often found on base and premium trims.
- 225/60R17: A common size for many models.
- 225/55R18: Typically found on higher trims.
- 225/65R17: An option for those looking for a slightly larger tire, especially for off-roading, that can often be fitted without a lift.
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
What year to stay away from a Subaru Crosstrek?
Years to potentially avoid for the Subaru Crosstrek include the 2016 and 2018 models due to issues like drivetrain vibrations, infotainment problems, and oil consumption. The early years of the first generation, specifically 2013-2015, should also be approached with caution due to common issues like oil consumption and head gasket problems with the 2.5-liter engine.
Years with more reported issues
- 2016: Has been associated with drivetrain vibrations and faulty infotainment systems.
- 2018: This model year is known for excessive oil consumption, glitchy technology, and a serious safety concern regarding the rear wheels kicking out, causing fishtailing.
- 2013-2015: These early models, particularly with the 2.5L engine, are prone to head gasket problems and excessive oil consumption. The 2012 Impreza shared this generation and also had issues with its CVT and oil consumption.
Other years to consider
- 2017: Generally considered a safer bet with fewer reported issues and recalls.
- 2019: While some sources suggest avoiding it due to numerous recalls and a significant number of complaints related to the ECM software causing unexpected engine stalls, other owners have reported it as reliable.
- 2021: This model year has received positive marks for reliability.
- 2023: This year is often recommended as one of the better choices in the second generation.
