Can a Subaru Crosstrek Tow Everything You Should Know

Yes, a Subaru Crosstrek can tow, but the limits depend on your model year and trim level. The base towing capacity sits around 1,500 pounds for older models and up to 2,000 pounds for newer versions with the proper towing package. Whether you are hauling a small camper, a jet ski, or a cargo trailer, understanding your Crosstrek’s towing specs is essential for safe and legal towing.

So you just bought a Subaru Crosstrek. Or maybe you are thinking about buying one. Either way, a question keeps popping up in your head. Can a Subaru Crosstrek tow? The short answer is yes. But the full answer is a bit more nuanced. Towing capacity depends on your model year, trim level, and whether you have the right equipment installed. In this guide, we will walk through everything you need to know about towing with a Subaru Crosstrek. From towing limits to hitch setups, from payload numbers to real-world use cases, we have got you covered.

The Subaru Crosstrek is one of the most popular compact crossovers on the road. It sits higher than a standard Impreza. It has all-wheel drive standard. It looks great and handles well on and off the pavement. But when it comes to towing, many owners wonder what their little Crosstrek can actually handle. Can it pull a small camper? A pair of kayaks? A utility trailer loaded with firewood? Let us break it all down for you.

Key Takeaways

• Towing Capacity Varies by Year: Older Crosstrek models tow around 1,500 lbs while newer ones reach up to 2,000 lbs with the right setup.
• GT Trim Offers Better Towing: The 2024 and newer Crosstrek GT trim comes with a standard towing package that boosts capacity.
• You Need a Proper Hitch: A Class I receiver hitch is required and must be installed correctly for safe towing.
• Payload Matters Too: Towing capacity is not the same as payload capacity. Both affect how much your Crosstrek can handle.
• Safety First: Always stay under the rated limit and use proper wiring, mirrors, and braking equipment.
• Not Built for Heavy Loads: The Crosstrek is a compact crossover, not a full-size SUV. It excels at light towing, not hauling large trailers.
• Check Your Owner Manual: Always confirm your specific model’s towing specs before hitting the road.

What Is the Subaru Crosstrek Towing Capacity?

The towing capacity of a Subaru Crosstrek varies by model year and trim. Here is a quick look at the numbers across different generations.

Towing Capacity by Model Year

For the 2018 through 2023 model years, the base Subaru Crosstrek has a towing capacity of 1,500 pounds. This applies to the 2.0i base trim and the 2.0i Premium trim. These models come with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque. That is enough for light towing but not much more.

Starting with the 2024 model year, things changed. Subaru introduced the Crosstrek GT trim. This version comes with a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine producing 221 horsepower and 230 pound-feet of torque. The 2024 Crosstrek GT has a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds. That is a meaningful jump from the previous generation. It opens up more towing possibilities for Crosstrek owners.

Older models from 2013 through 2017 had a towing capacity of 1,500 pounds as well. The engine was the same 2.0-liter four-cylinder. So if you are shopping for a used Crosstrek, you can expect similar towing numbers across the board.

What Does 1,500 to 2,000 Pounds Actually Mean?

Let us put those numbers into perspective. A 1,500-pound towing capacity means your total trailer weight including cargo should not exceed 1,500 pounds. A 2,000-pound capacity works the same way but allows for a heavier load. Here are some real-world examples of what you can tow within these limits.

• Small pop-up camper: Most lightweight pop-up campers weigh between 1,000 and 1,500 pounds. A Crosstrek can handle these easily.
• Jet ski trailer: A jet ski with a trailer typically weighs around 400 to 700 pounds. Well within the towing limit.
• Utility trailer with firewood: A loaded utility trailer with a cord of wood can reach 1,200 to 1,500 pounds. This is right at the edge for base models.
• Bike rack with bicycles: A bike rack with two to four bikes adds about 50 to 100 pounds. Very manageable.
• Small boat trailer: A lightweight aluminum boat and trailer combo might fit under 1,500 pounds for older models.

The key takeaway is that the Subaru Crosstrek is designed for light towing. It is not built to haul large travel trailers or heavy equipment. Stay within the rated limits and you will be just fine.

Do You Need a Towing Package for the Subaru Crosstrek?

Not every Crosstrek comes with a towing package from the factory. And this matters a lot if you plan to tow regularly. Let us look at what is involved.

What Is Included in the Towing Package?

A towing package for the Subaru Crosstrek typically includes several key components. First and most importantly, it includes a trailer hitch receiver. This is the metal bracket that attaches to the frame of the car and provides a connection point for your trailer. For the Crosstrek, a Class I receiver hitch is standard. These hitches are rated for lighter loads, which matches the Crosstrek’s towing capacity perfectly.

The towing package also includes a wiring harness. This connects your Crosstrek’s electrical system to the trailer’s lights. Without it, your brake lights and turn signals will not work on the trailer. This is not just inconvenient. It is illegal in most states and extremely dangerous.

Some packages also include a coolant booster for the engine. Towing puts extra strain on your vehicle. The coolant booster helps keep temperatures in check during longer tows. This is especially important for older Crosstrek models with the naturally aspirated 2.0-liter engine.

2024 Crosstrek GT Towing Package

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek GT comes with a standard towing package. This means you do not need to add anything extra. The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, the Class I hitch, and the wiring harness all come pre-installed. If you buy a 2024 Crosstrek GT, you are ready to tow right out of the dealership. This is a big selling point for anyone who wants a compact crossover that can actually pull a trailer.

For other trims and model years, you will likely need to have a towing package installed aftermarket. This costs anywhere from $400 to $800 depending on where you go and what components are included. It is a worthwhile investment if you plan to tow regularly.

What Can You Tow with a Subaru Crosstrek?

Now let us get into the fun part. What can you actually tow with this little crossover? The answer depends on your specific model and trim, but here are some practical examples.

Camping and Outdoor Adventures

The Subaru Crosstrek is a fantastic outdoor companion. Its all-wheel drive system handles dirt roads and trails with ease. Pair that with towing capability, and you have a versatile adventure rig. You can tow a small tent trailer or a pop-up camper to remote campsites. Just make sure the total trailer weight stays under your Crosstrek’s rated capacity.

Many Crosstrek owners use their vehicles for weekend camping trips. A lightweight tent trailer with a sleeping area and small kitchen setup works perfectly. The Crosstrek’s ground clearance helps navigate rough terrain to reach your campsite. And the standard all-wheel drive gives you confidence on unpaved roads.

Water Sports Equipment

Love kayaking or paddleboarding? The Crosstrek can tow a water sports trailer with ease. A couple of kayaks on a trailer weighs well under 1,500 pounds. You can also tow a small inflatable boat with an outboard motor. Just remember to factor in the weight of the motor and fuel when calculating your total tow weight.

Jet skiing is another popular use case. A jet ski trailer with a single Ski-Doo or Sea-Doo typically weighs between 500 and 800 pounds. The Crosstrek handles this without breaking a sweat. Make sure you have proper wiring for the trailer lights and brakes if your trailer is equipped with them.

Utility and Hauling

Need to move some supplies or haul gear? A small utility trailer works great with a Crosstrek. You can tow lumber, yard waste, or construction materials. Just be mindful of the weight. A fully loaded utility trailer can quickly approach the 1,500-pound limit. Weigh your load before heading out to make sure you stay within safe towing limits.

Some owners also use their Crosstrek to tow a small cargo trailer for moves or hauling large purchases. A cargo trailer loaded with furniture or appliances can add up fast. Always check the weight before you start towing. It is better to be safe than sorry.

How to Set Up Your Subaru Crosstrek for Towing

Proper setup is critical for safe and effective towing. Here is what you need to do before you hit the road.

Install a Class I Receiver Hitch

The first step is installing a Class I receiver hitch. This is the standard hitch class for the Subaru Crosstrek. Class I hitches are rated for loads up to 2,000 pounds. They bolt onto the frame underneath the rear of the vehicle. Installation typically takes about an hour and can be done at a mechanic shop or with basic tools if you are handy.

Make sure the hitch is rated for your specific Crosstrek model. Not all hitches fit all vehicles the same way. Check the fitment guide from the hitch manufacturer before purchasing. A properly installed hitch is the foundation of safe towing.

Connect the Wiring Harness

Once the hitch is installed, connect the wiring harness. This plugs into your Crosstrek’s electrical system and runs to the trailer connector. Test all the lights before you leave. Check the brake lights, turn signals, and running lights. If any are not working, fix them before towing.

Some trailers also have electric brakes. If your trailer is equipped with them, you will need a brake controller installed in your Crosstrek. This is an additional component that allows you to apply the trailer’s brakes independently from the vehicle’s brakes.

Check Your Mirrors and Visibility

A trailer blocks your rearview mirror. This is a serious safety issue. You need extended side mirrors to see around the trailer. Most states require extended mirrors when towing a trailer that extends beyond the rear of the vehicle. Invest in a good set of tow mirrors. They clip on or mount to your existing mirrors and give you full visibility.

Towing Safety Tips for Subaru Crosstrek Owners

Towing a trailer changes how your vehicle handles on the road. Here are some essential safety tips every Crosstrek owner should know.

Stay Under the Weight Limit

This cannot be stressed enough. Never exceed your Crosstrek’s rated towing capacity. Overloading a trailer puts extreme stress on the engine, transmission, brakes, and suspension. It also makes the vehicle harder to control. If you are unsure about the weight, visit a truck scale and weigh your fully loaded trailer before you depart.

Distribute Weight Evenly

How you load your trailer matters just as much as how much you load. Distribute weight evenly from side to side. Place heavier items low and toward the front of the trailer. This helps prevent swaying and improves stability. A poorly loaded trailer is one of the leading causes of towing accidents.

Use the Right Tires

Your Crosstrek’s tires play a big role in towing safety. Make sure all tires are properly inflated to the pressure listed on the door jamb sticker. Check the tire tread depth before a long tow trip. Worn tires reduce grip and increase stopping distance. This is especially important when towing a heavy load.

Drive Defensively

A trailer adds length and weight to your vehicle. You need more space to stop. You need more space to turn. You need more space to change lanes. Drive at a moderate speed and leave plenty of following distance. Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns. Smooth, predictable driving is the key to safe towing.

Common Mistakes People Make When Towing a Subaru Crosstrek

Even experienced drivers make mistakes when towing. Here are some common errors to avoid.

Exceeding the Towing Capacity

This is the number one mistake people make. They see the 2,000-pound number on the spec sheet and assume they can tow a 2,000-pound trailer loaded to the brim. But the towing capacity is the total trailer weight including cargo, passengers, and gear inside the vehicle. If your trailer weighs 1,800 pounds and you have 400 pounds of gear inside the Crosstrek, you are already over the limit. Always account for everything.

Skipping the Wiring Harness

Some people skip the wiring harness to save money or time. This is a terrible idea. Without proper wiring, your trailer lights will not work. You will be invisible to other drivers at night. You could also get pulled over and fined. The wiring harness is a small investment that pays off in safety and legality.

Ignoring Tongue Weight

Tongue weight is the downward force the trailer puts on the hitch. Too much tongue weight can make the rear of your Crosstrek sag. Too little tongue weight can cause the trailer to sway. The general rule is that tongue weight should be about 10 to 15 percent of the total trailer weight. Invest in a tongue weight scale and check it before every trip.

Not Checking the Hitch Regularly

A hitch can loosen over time, especially with regular towing. Before every trip, check that the hitch pin is secure and the safety chains are attached. Give the connection a firm tug to make sure everything is tight. A loose hitch on the highway is a dangerous situation that can be easily prevented with a quick inspection.

Subaru Crosstrek Towing vs. Other Compact Crossovers

How does the Crosstrek stack up against similar compact crossovers? Let us look at a quick comparison.

Towing Capacity Comparison Table

Here is a side-by-side look at towing capacities for popular compact crossovers in the same class as the Subaru Crosstrek.

Vehicle	Engine	Towing Capacity
Subaru Crosstrek (2018-2023)	2.0L 4-cylinder	1,500 lbs
Subaru Crosstrek GT (2024+)	2.5L Turbo 4-cylinder	2,000 lbs
Honda HR-V	2.0L 4-cylinder	1,500 lbs
Toyota RAV4 (base)	2.5L 4-cylinder	1,500 lbs
Ford EcoSport	2.0L 4-cylinder	2,000 lbs
Mazda CX-30	2.5L 4-cylinder	2,000 lbs

As you can see, the Subaru Crosstrek sits in the middle of the pack for towing capacity among compact crossovers. The 2024 Crosstrek GT with its turbocharged engine brings it closer to competitors like the Mazda CX-30 and Ford EcoSport. For most light towing needs, the Crosstrek is more than capable.

Final Thoughts on Towing with a Subaru Crosstrek

The Subaru Crosstrek is a surprisingly capable tow vehicle for its size. With a towing capacity of 1,500 to 2,000 pounds depending on your model, it can handle a wide range of light towing tasks. From camping trailers to water sports equipment to utility loads, the Crosstrek gets the job done. Just make sure you stay within the rated limits, install the proper hitch and wiring, and follow all safety guidelines.

If you are planning to tow regularly, consider the 2024 Crosstrek GT trim. The turbocharged engine and standard towing package make it a better choice for anyone who plans to pull trailers often. For occasional light towing, even the base Crosstrek models will serve you well with a properly installed hitch setup.

Towing with a Subaru Crosstrek is safe and practical when done right. Know your limits. Prepare your vehicle properly. Drive with care. And you will enjoy many trouble-free towing adventures with your trusty little crossover.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Subaru Crosstrek tow a travel trailer?

A Subaru Crosstrek can tow a small travel trailer that weighs under 1,500 to 2,000 pounds depending on your model year. However, most travel trailers are heavier than this limit. The Crosstrek is best suited for lightweight pop-up campers and tent trailers, not large travel trailers with living quarters. Always check the trailer weight before attempting to tow.

Do I need a special license to tow with a Subaru Crosstrek?

In most states, you do not need a special license to tow a trailer under 10,000 pounds with a standard passenger vehicle. The Subaru Crosstrek’s towing capacity falls well below this threshold. However, towing laws vary by state and country. Check your local regulations to make sure you are compliant with all requirements before towing.

Can I tow a boat with a Subaru Crosstrek?

Yes, you can tow a small boat with a Subaru Crosstrek as long as the combined weight of the boat, trailer, and gear stays under the vehicle’s towing capacity. Lightweight aluminum fishing boats and small sailboats typically fall within the 1,500 to 2,000-pound range. Make sure your trailer is properly rated and your hitch setup is secure before heading to the lake.

What is the difference between towing capacity and payload capacity?

Towing capacity refers to how much weight your Subaru Crosstrek can pull behind it on a trailer. Payload capacity refers to how much weight the vehicle itself can carry, including passengers, cargo, and any gear inside the cabin. Both numbers matter when towing. You need to stay within both limits for safe operation. Check your owner manual for the specific payload and towing numbers for your model.

Can I tow with a Subaru Crosstrek that does not have a towing package?

You can tow with a base Subaru Crosstrek that does not have a factory towing package, but you will need to install a Class I hitch and wiring harness aftermarket. The towing capacity remains the same whether the package is factory-installed or added later. The important thing is that the hitch is properly installed and rated for your vehicle. Have a professional mechanic handle the installation for best results.

Is the Subaru Crosstrek good for off-road towing?

The Subaru Crosstrek is a solid choice for light off-road towing thanks to its standard all-wheel drive and decent ground clearance. It can handle dirt trails and unpaved roads with ease when towing a lightweight trailer. However, the Crosstrek is still a compact crossover, not a rugged off-road vehicle. Avoid extreme terrain and always check trail conditions before attempting to tow in remote or rugged areas.