You rely on your Subaru for weekend trips, daily driving and hauling gear, and the right trailer hitch can add useful towing and accessory capability. The key is choosing a receiver that actually fits your Subaru model and year while matching the bike rack, cargo carrier or trailer you plan to use.
Pay close attention to vehicle fitment, receiver size, gross trailer weight (GTW) and tongue weight (TW). A hitch’s published rating does not increase your Subaru’s towing capacity, so always follow the lowest-rated component in the complete setup and confirm your vehicle limits in the owner’s manual.
Important Fitment & Safety Note: Subaru towing limits vary by model, year, trim and equipment. Verify the hitch manufacturer’s application information and your Subaru owner’s manual before ordering or towing.
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Top Picks
|
Category |
Product |
Primary Fit |
|---|---|---|
|
🏆 Best for Forester |
Select 2014–2018 Forester applications |
|
|
🎯 Best 2-Inch Crosstrek Option |
Select early Crosstrek/XV Crosstrek applications |
|
|
⭐ Best OEM Ascent Integration |
Compatible Subaru Ascent applications |
|
|
💰 Best for Older Legacy/Outback |
Select 2005–2009 Legacy/Outback applications |
[Amazon Products Picked for You]
Dependable Strength: Stringently tested to SAE J684 standards, the hitch has a weight capacity of 3,500 pounds gross trailer weight and 350 pounds tongue weight
Genuine Subaru Trailer Hitch Cover
How We Chose
We focused on products that are actual vehicle-mounted Subaru receiver hitches rather than unrelated hitch accessories. The main comparison points were vehicle-specific fitment, receiver size, published hitch rating, construction, corrosion protection, installation requirements and usefulness for common bike-rack, cargo-carrier and trailer applications.
We also gave extra weight to clear manufacturer fitment information and honest limitations. A receiver can have a higher mechanical rating than the vehicle itself, so the safest buying decision starts with your exact Subaru model, year and owner’s-manual limits rather than the largest number printed on the hitch.
CURT Class 2
This CURT Class 2 is a vehicle-specific receiver designed for select Subaru Forester applications. Its 1-1/4-inch receiver is a practical choice when your main goal is mounting a compatible bike rack or cargo carrier, with light trailer use possible only when your specific Forester’s limits allow it.
The hitch itself is rated for up to 3,500 lbs. GTW and 350 lbs. TW, but those numbers are not permission to tow that amount with every Forester. Your vehicle’s lower limit always controls. CURT lists drilling as required for this application, so check the installation instructions before deciding whether it is a comfortable DIY project.
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Rated to 3,500 lbs. gross trailer weight and 525 lbs. tongue weight
Compatibility: Compatible with 2014-2018 Subaru Forester
Rated to 3,500 lbs. gross trailer weight and 525 lbs. tongue weight
What People Say
Buyer feedback associated with this model has generally focused on its sturdy construction, vehicle-specific fit and usefulness for racks and light-duty hauling. Installation can take additional effort around the exhaust and mounting points, so review the latest installation instructions before starting.
Review Snapshot: Generally positive in the source review set; marketplace feedback can change over time.
Situational Benefits
|
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
|
Weekend Bike Trips |
Provides a 1-1/4-inch receiver for compatible hitch-mounted bike racks without adding a permanent roof-mounted carrier. |
|
Light Trailer Use |
Provides a rated towing connection when the trailer, hitch, vehicle and all other components remain within their individual limits. |
|
Extra Cargo Space |
Supports compatible hitch-mounted cargo carriers when their loaded weight stays within the vehicle and hitch tongue-weight limits. |
Ease of Use
|
Feature |
Detail |
|---|---|
|
Installation |
Moderate DIY project |
|
Drilling |
Required for this hitch application |
|
Receiver Size |
1-1/4 inch |
|
Fitment |
Vehicle-specific; verify model year before ordering |
Versatility
Best suited to compatible bike racks, cargo carriers and light-duty trailer applications. The smaller 1-1/4-inch receiver is less suitable if you already own accessories that require a 2-inch receiver.
Durability
CURT uses carbon-steel construction with a liquid A-coat and black powder-coat finish to help protect the hitch against corrosion, chips and everyday road exposure.
Problem Solving
This receiver gives compatible Forester owners a permanent mounting point for hitch accessories, reducing the need for roof-mounted gear and adding towing capability where the vehicle manufacturer permits it.
Travel Friendliness
The exposed receiver stays ready for compatible racks or carriers, which can make it easier to keep bikes and bulky gear outside the passenger compartment.
Who Should Buy This?
Consider it if you have a compatible Forester and specifically want a 1-1/4-inch receiver for lighter hitch-mounted accessories or towing within your vehicle’s approved limits.
Who Should Avoid This?
Skip it if your Forester year is not listed as compatible, if you need a 2-inch receiver, or if you are not comfortable with an installation that may require drilling.
Key Benefits
- Vehicle-specific design for select Subaru Forester applications
- 1-1/4-inch receiver for compatible racks and carriers
- Hitch rating of up to 3,500 lbs. GTW and 350 lbs. TW
- Dual-coat corrosion protection
Fitment Note: Verify your exact Subaru model year and never exceed the towing or tongue-weight limit in your vehicle owner’s manual.
Check Product Details on Amazon
CURT Class 3
The CURT 13135 gives compatible Subaru Crosstrek and XV Crosstrek owners a full 2-inch Class III receiver. That larger receiver opens the door to a wider range of compatible bike racks, cargo carriers and towing accessories than a 1-1/4-inch receiver.
The hitch itself is rated for up to 3,500 lbs. GTW and 525 lbs. TW. Those are hitch ratings, not the towing limits of every Crosstrek. Before attaching a trailer, check the exact towing and tongue-weight limits for your Subaru model year and use the lowest rating in the entire setup.
What People Say
Buyer feedback associated with this model commonly highlights the solid construction and useful 2-inch receiver. Installation is generally approachable for an experienced DIYer, although access openings and alignment can require patience depending on the vehicle.
Review Snapshot: Generally positive in the source review set; check current marketplace feedback for the latest pattern.
Situational Benefits
|
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
|
2-Inch Bike Racks |
Gives you a standard 2-inch receiver for compatible racks, subject to CURT’s accessory limitations and your vehicle’s tongue-weight limit. |
|
Cargo Carrier Use |
Provides a secure receiver for compatible cargo carriers when the carrier and loaded cargo remain within the allowable tongue weight. |
|
Approved Trailer Use |
Provides a Class III connection for trailers that remain within the specific Crosstrek’s manufacturer-approved towing limits. |
Ease of Use
|
Feature |
Detail |
|---|---|
|
Installation |
Moderate DIY project |
|
Drilling |
No frame drilling listed; follow the supplied installation instructions |
|
Receiver Size |
2 inch |
|
Fitment |
Vehicle-specific; verify exact Crosstrek/XV year |
Versatility
The 2-inch receiver works with a broad range of compatible hitch accessories. CURT currently notes that this hitch is not compatible with vertical-hanging bicycle setups that require bicycles to be mounted vertically, so confirm rack compatibility before buying.
Durability
High-strength carbon-steel construction is protected by CURT’s liquid A-coat and black powder-coat finish for corrosion and chip resistance.
Problem Solving
It gives compatible early-generation Crosstrek owners a 2-inch receiver without relying on adapters to use many popular 2-inch hitch accessories.
Travel Friendliness
A 2-inch receiver can make it easier to use compatible cargo carriers and bike racks on road trips while keeping bulky equipment outside the cabin.
Who Should Buy This?
It makes sense if your Crosstrek or XV Crosstrek is specifically listed for CURT 13135 and you want a 2-inch receiver for compatible accessories or manufacturer-approved towing.
Who Should Avoid This?
Do not buy it solely because the hitch’s 3,500-lb rating is higher than your vehicle’s towing limit. Also choose another solution if your model year is not listed or your bicycle rack conflicts with CURT’s rack restrictions.
Key Benefits
- 2-inch Class III receiver
- Vehicle-specific Crosstrek/XV Crosstrek design
- Hitch rating of up to 3,500 lbs. GTW and 525 lbs. TW
- Carbon-steel construction with dual protective finish
Fitment Note: This part is intended for select early Crosstrek/XV Crosstrek applications. Confirm the exact year and trim before ordering.
Check Product Details on Amazon
Subaru OEM Kit
If factory integration is your priority, the Subaru OEM Ascent receiver is the most natural option in this group. Subaru’s current Ascent hitch specification uses a heavy-duty 2-inch receiver and is designed around the vehicle rather than being a universal accessory.
Subaru lists up to 5,000 lbs. towing capacity and 500 lbs. tongue weight for properly equipped Ascent applications, while some configurations have lower limits. Subaru has also superseded earlier Ascent hitch part numbers over time, so verify that the Amazon listing’s exact part number matches your model year before ordering.
What People Say
Buyer feedback associated with this OEM option has commonly focused on factory-style fit and integration. Installation is more involved than simply attaching an accessory to an existing receiver, and Subaru recommends following the official installation procedure.
Review Snapshot: Generally positive in the source review set; verify current reviews and listing contents before purchasing.
Situational Benefits
|
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
|
Factory-Style Installation |
Uses an Ascent-specific design intended to integrate with the vehicle rather than a universal mounting solution. |
|
2-Inch Accessories |
Provides a 2-inch receiver for compatible bike racks and cargo accessories within Subaru’s permitted limits. |
|
Approved Towing |
Supports towing when the Ascent’s specific trim, equipment, hitch, wiring and trailer setup all meet Subaru requirements. |
Ease of Use
|
Feature |
Detail |
|---|---|
|
Installation |
More involved; professional installation is worth considering |
|
Receiver Size |
2 inch |
|
Wiring |
Verify the exact harness and connector components included with the listing |
|
Fitment |
Ascent-specific; part number and model year must match |
Versatility
The 2-inch receiver supports many common hitch accessories and towing setups, but this is an Ascent-specific solution rather than a receiver intended to transfer between different Subaru models.
Durability
The main advantage is OEM engineering and vehicle integration. As with any receiver, inspect the finish, mounting hardware and electrical connections periodically, especially after winter road exposure or frequent towing.
Problem Solving
This option reduces uncertainty for Ascent owners who prefer a Subaru-designed receiver rather than choosing among aftermarket mounting systems.
Travel Friendliness
The factory-oriented design is useful for owners who regularly travel with hitch-mounted accessories or tow within the limits specified for their particular Ascent.
Who Should Buy This?
Choose it if you own a compatible Ascent, prioritize OEM integration and are prepared to verify the current Subaru part number and required wiring before ordering.
Who Should Avoid This?
Do not assume the Amazon listing fits every Ascent year simply because it is an OEM Subaru product. If the listing part number does not match your vehicle, choose the correct current Subaru part instead.
Key Benefits
- OEM-style integration for compatible Subaru Ascent models
- 2-inch receiver
- Up to 5,000 lbs. towing and 500 lbs. tongue weight on properly equipped Ascent configurations
- Designed around the Ascent platform rather than universal fitment
Fitment Note: Subaru has superseded earlier Ascent hitch part numbers. Confirm the exact part number, model year, trim and required wiring before purchasing.
Check Product Details on Amazon
Reese Class III
The Reese 44581 is a useful option for owners of compatible older Subaru Legacy and Outback models who want a full 2-inch Class III receiver. It is a vehicle-specific receiver rather than a universal hitch, so the exact model, body style and year remain important.
The receiver is rated for up to 4,000 lbs. GTW and 400 lbs. TW. As with every hitch in this guide, your Subaru’s manufacturer-rated towing and tongue-weight limits may be lower and always take priority.
What People Say
Buyer feedback associated with this receiver has commonly highlighted its solid construction and model-specific fit. Because these applications cover older vehicles, frame condition, corrosion and previous repairs can affect installation alignment and should be checked before mounting the hitch.
Review Snapshot: Generally positive in the source review set; marketplace feedback can change over time.
Situational Benefits
|
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
|
Older Legacy/Outback Ownership |
Provides a vehicle-specific 2-inch receiver for compatible older Subaru applications. |
|
Mounting Bike Racks |
Provides a standard 2-inch mounting point for compatible racks within the allowable tongue weight. |
|
Trailer or Cargo Use |
Supports compatible towing and cargo accessories when every component remains within the Subaru’s approved limits. |
Ease of Use
|
Feature |
Detail |
|---|---|
|
Installation |
Moderate |
|
Receiver Size |
2 inch |
|
Vehicle Condition |
Inspect mounting points carefully on older vehicles |
|
Fitment |
Select Legacy/Outback applications only |
Versatility
The standard 2-inch receiver supports many common bike racks, cargo carriers and towing accessories. Its usefulness depends on owning one of the specific older Subaru applications for which Reese designed it.
Durability
Reese uses solid welded steel construction with a protective black finish intended to resist road exposure and corrosion. On an older vehicle, the condition of the Subaru’s mounting area is just as important as the hitch itself.
Problem Solving
It gives compatible Legacy and Outback owners a 2-inch hitch interface for modern accessories without relying on a universal mounting solution.
Travel Friendliness
The 2-inch receiver provides a practical mounting point for compatible travel accessories such as bike racks and cargo carriers, helping free up interior cargo space.
Who Should Buy This?
Consider it if you have a compatible older Subaru Legacy or Outback, need a 2-inch receiver and have confirmed that your vehicle’s mounting points are in sound condition.
Who Should Avoid This?
Skip it if your Subaru falls outside the listed applications or if corrosion, collision repairs or other frame issues make the mounting points questionable.
Key Benefits
- 2-inch Class III receiver
- Vehicle-specific design for select older Subaru Legacy/Outback models
- Hitch rating of up to 4,000 lbs. GTW and 400 lbs. TW
- Solid welded steel construction
Fitment Note: Verify exact model year, body style and application before ordering. Do not use the hitch rating as a substitute for your Subaru’s own towing limit.
Check Product Details on Amazon
FAQ
How Do I Choose The Right Subaru Trailer Hitch?
Start with your exact Subaru model, model year and trim. Confirm that the hitch manufacturer’s application list includes your vehicle, then choose the receiver size that matches the rack, carrier or towing equipment you intend to use.
After checking fitment, compare the hitch’s GTW and TW ratings with the limits in your Subaru owner’s manual. The lowest rating in the complete setup is the limit you must follow.
Does A Higher-Rated Hitch Increase My Subaru’s Towing Capacity?
No. A receiver rated for 3,500 or 5,000 lbs. does not automatically allow the vehicle to tow that weight. The Subaru’s model-specific towing capacity, tongue-weight limit, trailer equipment and other components can impose a lower limit.
Can I Install A Subaru Hitch Myself?
Some custom-fit aftermarket receivers are realistic DIY projects if you have the correct tools and can safely support and align the hitch. Installation requirements differ: some applications require drilling or enlarging access points, while OEM Ascent installations can involve more extensive vehicle disassembly.
If you are unsure about mounting-point condition, torque specifications, bumper removal, wiring or safe lifting, professional installation is the better choice.
What Receiver Size Should I Choose?
A 1-1/4-inch receiver can work well for compatible lighter accessories, while a 2-inch receiver gives you access to a broader selection of bike racks, cargo carriers and towing equipment. Receiver size alone does not determine how much your Subaru can safely tow or carry.
What Maintenance And Safety Checks Are Needed?
Inspect the mounting hardware, receiver, hitch pin, wiring and visible finish before long trips and towing. Watch for loose fasteners, corrosion, damaged wiring or movement around mounting points. Follow the hitch manufacturer’s torque and maintenance instructions and verify trailer lights and brakes where required.
What Buyers Prefer
The best choice depends more on your Subaru model than on a universal ranking. Compatible Forester owners who need a 1-1/4-inch receiver can start with the CURT Class 2. Owners of compatible early Crosstrek/XV models who specifically want a 2-inch receiver should compare the CURT Class 3. Ascent owners who prioritize factory integration may prefer the Subaru OEM solution, while owners of compatible older Legacy or Outback models can consider the Reese Class III.
After fitment, compare receiver size, installation difficulty, accessory compatibility and the limits in your vehicle owner’s manual. Those factors matter more than choosing the hitch with the largest advertised capacity.
Wrapping Up
A good Subaru trailer hitch should first fit your exact vehicle and then support the rack, carrier or trailer you actually plan to use. Avoid selecting a hitch based only on a large GTW or tongue-weight number because the vehicle’s own rating may be significantly lower.
Use the recommendations above as a starting point, confirm fitment with the manufacturer or current product listing, check your Subaru owner’s manual and choose professional installation whenever you are uncertain about mounting, wiring or towing safety.
Quick Comparison
| Product Name | Image | Receiver / Class | Hitch Rating | Primary Fit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CURT 12100 Class 2 Trailer Hitch |
|
1-1/4 inch / Class II | 3,500 lbs. GTW / 350 lbs. TW* | Select 2014–2018 Subaru Forester applications |
| Curt 13135 Class 3 Trailer Hitch |
|
2 inch / Class III | 3,500 lbs. GTW / 525 lbs. TW* | Select early Subaru Crosstrek/XV Crosstrek applications |
| Subaru Ascent OEM Trailer Hitch |
|
2 inch / OEM receiver | Up to 5,000 lbs. towing / 500 lbs. TW on properly equipped applications* | Compatible Subaru Ascent applications; verify current part number |
| Reese Towpower 44581 Class III Custom-Fit Hitch |
|
2 inch / Class III | 4,000 lbs. GTW / 400 lbs. TW* | Select 2005–2009 Subaru Legacy/Outback applications |
*Hitch ratings are not the same as vehicle towing limits. Never exceed the lowest-rated component or the towing and tongue-weight limits specified by Subaru for your exact vehicle.
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[Amazon Products Picked for You]
DEPENDABLE STRENGTH — This trailer hitch is rated for 3,500 lbs. gross trailer weight and 525 lbs. tongue weight (limited to lowest-rated towing component)
【COMPATIBLE WITH】— The TangMiGe Class 3 Trailer Hitch offers a custom, factory fit on select model years of the Crosstrek All 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024. Easy to install.
DEPENDABLE STRENGTH — This trailer hitch is rated for 3,500 lbs. gross trailer weight and 525 lbs. tongue weight (limited to lowest-rated towing component)
