How Much Can a Subaru Crosstrek Tow Safely on the Road

The Subaru Crosstrek can safely tow up to 2,700 pounds when properly equipped with the right towing package. Whether you are planning a weekend camping trip or hauling a small trailer, understanding your Subaru Crosstrek tow limits is essential for safe driving. This guide covers everything from towing specs to equipment and practical safety tips you can use right away.

So you just bought a Subaru Crosstrek or you are thinking about getting one. Maybe you love the idea of hitting the open road with a trailer in tow. The question on your mind is probably simple: how much can a Subaru Crosstrek tow? The answer is not as straightforward as you might think. There are several factors that play into the Subaru Crosstrek tow capacity, and knowing them can save you from a lot of headaches down the road.

In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about Subaru Crosstrek towing. We will cover the towing capacity numbers, what equipment you need, safety tips, and how the Crosstrek stacks up against other Subaru models. By the time you finish reading, you will feel confident about towing with your Crosstrek. Let us get into it.

Key Takeaways

• Towing Capacity: The Subaru Crosstrek can tow up to 2,700 pounds when equipped with the proper towing package.
• Engine Power Matters: The 2.5-liter engine provides enough torque for light to moderate towing tasks on the road.
• Right Equipment Is Essential: You need a proper tow hitch, wiring harness, and braking setup to tow safely.
• Safety First: Always stay within the weight limit and follow speed and braking guidelines when towing.
• Compare Before You Buy: The Crosstrek sits in the middle of Subaru’s towing lineup, between the Forester and the Outback.
• Flat Towing Is Possible: The Crosstrek can be flat towed, but you must follow specific procedures to avoid damage.

Understanding the Subaru Crosstrek Towing Capacity

The Subaru Crosstrek towing capacity is one of the most important numbers to know before you hit the road. The base model Crosstrek comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces about 182 horsepower. This engine is paired with a standard continuously variable transmission, also known as a CVT. Together, they provide enough power for light to moderate towing tasks.

The maximum towing capacity for the Subaru Crosstrek is rated at 2,700 pounds. This number assumes you have the proper towing equipment installed and that you are following all manufacturer guidelines. It is important to understand what this number actually means in real-world terms. 2,700 pounds is enough to pull a small trailer, a couple of kayaks, or a light camping setup. It is not enough for a large boat or a heavy equipment trailer.

What Affects Towing Capacity?

Several factors can influence how much your Crosstrek can safely tow. Let us break them down:

• Engine and Transmission: The 2.5-liter engine is the standard powerplant. It delivers enough torque for towing, but it is not a powerhouse. The CVT transmission is designed for efficiency, which helps during towing.
• Payload Capacity: Towing capacity is different from payload capacity. Payload refers to how much weight the vehicle itself can carry, including passengers and cargo. Towing refers to the weight you pull behind the vehicle.
• Towing Package: Some Crosstrek trims come with a towing package that includes a reinforced suspension and a tow hitch receiver. This package is essential for towing at the full rated capacity.
• Drivetrain: The standard all-wheel drive system on the Crosstrek helps with traction when towing, especially on wet or uneven roads.
• Tire Condition: Properly inflated tires with the right load rating are critical for safe towing. Underinflated tires can lead to blowouts when towing heavy loads.

Always check your owner’s manual for the exact towing specs for your specific model year. Subaru occasionally updates these numbers, and your trim level matters too.

What Can a Subaru Crosstrek Tow?

Now that you know the towing capacity, let us talk about what you can actually tow with a Subaru Crosstrek. The 2,700-pound limit opens up several practical towing scenarios for outdoor enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike.

Small Trailers and Utility Trailers

A small utility trailer loaded with gardening supplies, lumber, or moving boxes is well within the Crosstrek’s towing limits. As long as the total trailer weight stays under 2,700 pounds, you should be fine. This makes the Crosstrek a great choice for DIY projects and light hauling around town.

Camping Gear and Small Campers

If you love camping, the Crosstrek can handle a small pop-up camper or a lightweight tent trailer. Just make sure the camper weight, including everything inside it, stays under the 2,700-pound limit. For comparison, the Subaru Forester can also tow a camper, so both models work well for camping trips.

Boats and Personal Watercraft

Small boats like aluminum fishing boats or personal watercraft such as jet skis are easily within the towing range. A typical aluminum fishing boat with a small outboard motor will weigh between 300 and 800 pounds, leaving plenty of room under the 2,700-pound limit. The Subaru Outback can also tow a boat if you need a model with a slightly higher capacity.

Motorcycles and ATVs

Hauling a motorcycle or a small ATV on a trailer is another great use case for the Crosstrek. Most ATVs weigh between 400 and 700 pounds, and a motorcycle typically weighs 400 to 600 pounds. Either way, you stay well within the towing limit.

What the Crosstrek Cannot Tow

It is equally important to know what the Crosstrek should not tow. Large boats, horse trailers, and heavy equipment trailers will exceed the 2,700-pound limit. Trying to tow beyond the rated capacity is dangerous and can cause serious damage to your vehicle. If you need to tow heavier loads, you might want to look at a different vehicle, or you can compare models like the Subaru Forester to see if it fits your needs better.

Towing Equipment You Will Need

Having the right equipment is just as important as knowing your towing capacity. Without the proper setup, even a lightweight trailer can become a safety hazard on the road. Here is what you need to tow with a Subaru Crosstrek.

Tow Hitch Receiver

The first thing you need is a tow hitch receiver. The Crosstrek comes with a Class II trailer hitch receiver on models equipped with the towing package. This hitch is rated for up to 2,700 pounds of towing capacity and 350 pounds of tongue weight. You can have a hitch installed at most auto shops or Subaru dealerships. The cost typically ranges from $200 to $500 depending on the brand and installation fees.

Wiring Harness and Lights

A wiring harness is essential for connecting your trailer’s lights to the Crosstrek. This ensures your brake lights, turn signals, and running lights work properly when towing. Most wiring harness kits are universal and can be plugged into the hitch receiver. You should also install a 4-pin or 7-pin connector depending on your trailer’s needs.

Weight Distribution Hitch

If you are towing close to the 2,700-pound limit, a weight distribution hitch can help. This device distributes the trailer’s weight more evenly across all four wheels of the Crosstrek. It improves stability and makes the vehicle easier to control, especially at highway speeds.

Braking System

For trailers over 1,500 pounds, a separate braking system is often required by law. This can be an electric brake controller or a surge brake system, depending on your trailer type. Check your local laws to make sure you are compliant with braking requirements for trailers in your area.

Safety Chains and Backup Camera

Always use safety chains rated for the trailer weight. Cross them under the trailer tongue to prevent the trailer from separating if the hitch fails. A backup camera is also highly recommended when towing, as it gives you a clear view of what is behind you when reversing.

If you are interested in learning more about flat towing your Crosstrek, check out our guide on whether a Subaru can be flat towed for detailed instructions and safety information.

Safety Tips for Towing With a Crosstrek

Towing a trailer changes the way your vehicle handles on the road. Even if you are staying well within the Subaru Crosstrek tow capacity, safety should always come first. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind.

Load Distribution Matters

How you load your trailer is just as important as how much you load it. Place heavier items over the axle and lighter items toward the front of the trailer. This helps prevent the trailer from swaying. The ideal tongue weight should be about 10 to 15 percent of the total trailer weight.

Drive Slower When Towing

Speed is your enemy when towing. The Crosstrek is not a heavy-duty truck, so it does not handle high speeds well when pulling a trailer. Keep your speed under 60 mph on highways and be extra cautious on winding roads. Slower speeds give you more reaction time and reduce strain on your vehicle.

Brake Earlier and Gently

When you are towing, your stopping distance increases significantly. The added weight of the trailer means your brakes need more time and distance to bring everything to a stop. Brake gently and avoid sudden stops whenever possible. Leave extra following distance between you and the vehicle ahead.

Check Your Mirrors

Standard side mirrors may not give you a clear view of the trailer behind you. Consider installing extended towing mirrors so you can see the full width of your trailer. This is especially important when changing lanes or making turns.

Do a Pre-Trip Inspection

Before every trip, do a quick walk-around inspection. Check that the hitch is secure, the safety chains are connected, the trailer lights work, and the tires are properly inflated. This simple habit can prevent accidents and breakdowns on the road.

Watch for Wind Gusts

The Crosstrek has a relatively tall profile, and when you add a trailer, it becomes even more susceptible to wind gusts. Be extra careful on open highways and bridges where wind can be strongest. If the trailer starts to sway, ease off the gas and slow down gradually. Do not slam on the brakes.

How the Crosstrek Compares to Other Subaru Models

If you are shopping around for a Subaru that can tow, it helps to compare the Crosstrek with other models in the lineup. Each Subaru has different towing capabilities, and knowing where the Crosstrek stands can help you make a better decision.

Model	Towing Capacity	Best For
Subaru Crosstrek	2,700 lbs	Light towing, camping, small trailers
Subaru Forester	2,000 lbs	Everyday towing, small loads
Subaru Outback	2,700 lbs	Light to moderate towing, boats
Subaru Ascent	5,000 lbs	Heavy towing, large trailers

As you can see, the Crosstrek ties with the Outback for towing capacity at 2,700 pounds. The Forester can tow less at 2,000 pounds, while the Ascent can handle much heavier loads at 5,000 pounds. The Crosstrek strikes a nice balance between versatility and affordability. It is a great choice for drivers who do not need heavy-duty towing but still want the freedom to pull a small trailer or camper.

If you are curious about how the Crosstrek handles flat towing, check out our article on whether a Subaru can be flat towed. This is an important consideration for road trips, especially if you plan to tow a dinghy behind your Crosstrek.

Common Towing Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced drivers make mistakes when towing. Here are some common errors that can lead to accidents, vehicle damage, or fines.

• Exceeding the towing capacity: This is the biggest mistake you can make. Going over 2,700 pounds puts extreme stress on the engine, transmission, and brakes. It can also void your warranty.
• Neglecting tire pressure: Underinflated tires are dangerous when towing. They overheat and are more prone to blowouts. Always check your tire pressure before every trip.
• Skipping the weight distribution hitch: If your trailer weight is close to the limit, skipping this equipment can cause the Crosstrek to become unstable, especially at highway speeds.
• Ignoring local towing laws: Different states and counties have different towing regulations. Some require separate braking systems for trailers over a certain weight. Always check local laws before you tow.
• Not practicing before a long trip: Towing changes the way your vehicle drives. Practice in a safe, empty area before you embark on a long journey. Get comfortable with turning, braking, and reversing with the trailer attached.

Avoiding these mistakes will keep you safe and protect your Subaru Crosstrek from unnecessary wear and tear.

Final Thoughts on Subaru Crosstrek Towing

The Subaru Crosstrek is a capable and versatile vehicle that can handle light to moderate towing with ease. With a towing capacity of 2,700 pounds, it is perfect for camping trips, hauling small trailers, and pulling personal watercraft or motorcycles. The key to safe towing is staying within the rated capacity, using the right equipment, and following all safety guidelines.

Whether you are a first-time tower or a seasoned pro, the Crosstrek gives you the confidence and capability to get the job done. Just remember to invest in quality towing equipment, practice safe driving habits, and always respect the limits of your vehicle. Happy towing, and enjoy the open road with your Subaru Crosstrek.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum towing capacity of a Subaru Crosstrek?

The Subaru Crosstrek can tow up to 2,700 pounds when equipped with the proper towing package. This capacity is designed for light to moderate towing tasks like small trailers, camping gear, and personal watercraft. Always check your specific model year for exact specifications.

Do I need a towing package to tow with a Crosstrek?

Yes, you should have the towing package installed to tow at the full rated capacity. The package includes a Class II trailer hitch receiver and other reinforcement needed for safe towing. Without it, you may not be able to tow safely or at the full 2,700-pound limit.

Can I flat tow my Subaru Crosstrek behind an RV?

The Subaru Crosstrek can be flat towed, but you must follow the specific procedures outlined in your owner’s manual. Flat towing requires proper equipment and adherence to speed and distance guidelines to avoid damaging the transmission. Check our guide on flat towing for detailed instructions.

What kind of trailer can a Subaru Crosstrek tow?

The Crosstrek is best suited for small utility trailers, pop-up campers, boat trailers for small boats, and motorcycle or ATV trailers. These are all within the 2,700-pound towing limit. Heavier trailers like large boat or horse trailers exceed the capacity and should not be towed with a Crosstrek.

Is towing with a Subaru Crosstrek safe?

Yes, towing with a Crosstrek is safe as long as you stay within the rated capacity and follow all safety guidelines. Proper load distribution, correct tire pressure, and appropriate braking systems are essential for safe towing. Always do a pre-trip inspection before hitting the road.

How does the Crosstrek towing capacity compare to the Subaru Forester?

The Subaru Crosstrek has a higher towing capacity at 2,700 pounds compared to the Forester’s 2,000 pounds. Both are capable for light towing, but the Crosstrek offers more versatility for heavier loads within the light towing range. If you need more towing power, you can also look at the Subaru Outback or Ascent.