The Subaru Crosstrek is a Towing Capacity Subcompact Champ

So, you’re curious about what Subaru’s smallest SUV can tow. Subcompact crossovers like the Crosstrek aren’t known to haul heavy objects, but they do provide ample pulling power for smaller weekend toys like small trailers, jet skis, and the like. For anything more, you’ll want to opt for the larger Subaru Ascent with about 5,000 pounds towing.

The towing capacity of a Subaru Crosstrek varies depending on the model year and drivetrain. Here are the towing capacities for the most recent model years of the Subaru Crosstrek:

• 2024 Crosstrek Wilderness: more than double at 3,500 pounds.
• 2024 & 2023 Subaru Crosstrek: The maximum towing capacity for the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek is 1,500 pounds.
• 2022 Subaru Crosstrek: When equipped with the available trailer hitch, the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek’s maximum towing capacity is 1,500 pounds.
• 2021 Subaru Crosstrek: When equipped with the available trailer hitch, the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek’s maximum towing capacity is 1,500 pounds.
• 2020 Subaru Crosstrek: The maximum towing capacity for the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek is 1,500 pounds for models equipped with a manual transmission and 1,000 pounds for models with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

It’s important to note that the towing capacity can also vary depending on other factors, such as the weight of the trailer and its contents, the altitude, and the weather conditions. It’s always a good idea to consult the owner’s manual or speak with a Subaru dealer to ensure you do not exceed the recommended towing capacity. Here’s a helpful Crosstrek towing discussion on the Subaru XV Forum.

New 2024 Crosstrek Wilderness Tows More Than the Forester

In early April 2023, Subaru unveiled the first-ever 2024 Crosstrek Wilderness. The maximum towing capacity for the outgoing 2023 Subaru Crosstrek was 1,500 pounds. For 2024, thanks to the addition of a transmission oil cooler, this number climbs to an impressive 3,500 pounds. This is pretty impressive for a small crossover SUV, and it out-towes its competition. Here’s more on the 2024 Crosstrek Wilderness specs and features.

Crosstrek Towing Vs. Subaru SUVs

Here is a list of the maximum towing capacities for the most recent model years of the Subaru SUVs, ranked from highest to lowest. Interestingly, the subcompact Crosstrek and compact Forester’s base towing are rated at 1,500 pounds. However, the latest Forester features up to 3,000 towing capacity and an available Class II hitch receiver accessory. 

1. Subaru Ascent: 5,000-plus pounds
2. Subaru Outback towing capacity: 3,500 pounds
3. Subaru Forester towing capacity: up to 3,000 pounds with Class II hitch receiver
4. Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness: 3,500 pounds
5. Subaru Crosstrek: 1,500 pounds

It’s important to note that these are the maximum towing capacities for these vehicles. The actual towing capacity can vary depending on factors such as the weight of the trailer and its contents, altitude, and weather conditions. Always consult the owner’s manual or a Subaru dealer to ensure you do not exceed the recommended towing capacity.

Which Crosstrek competitors offer the highest towing capacity?

Here is a list of the latest model year’s highest towing capacity for subcompact SUVs. These figures can sometimes change, so check with the respective manufacturers’ sites for the latest confirmed towing capacity ratings.

1. Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness: 3,500 pounds
2. Jeep Renegade: up to 2,000 pounds
3. Fiat 500X: up to 2,000 pounds
4. Kia Seltos: up to 2,000 pounds
5. Chevrolet Trax: up to 1,500 pounds
6. Subaru Crosstrek: up to 1,500 pounds
7. Mazda CX-30: up to 1,500 pounds
8. Nissan Kicks: up to 1,400 pounds
9. Hyundai Kona: up to 1,000 pounds

It’s important to note that these are the maximum towing capacities for these vehicles. The actual towing capacity can vary depending on factors such as the weight of the trailer and its contents, altitude, and weather conditions. Always consult the owner’s manual or a dealer to ensure you do not exceed the recommended towing capacity.