
The Subaru Crosstrek is a popular choice for adventure seekers and nature lovers due to its standard all-wheel drive, high ground clearance, large cargo-carrying capacity, and rugged durability. It has a towing capacity of 1,500 pounds and can pull small trailers, motorcycles, jet skis, small boats, or lightweight campers. However, it is important to note that the max tow capacity for safe operation is 1,500 pounds, including the weight of the trailer and any gear loaded into it.
When it comes to towing a camper, the Subaru Crosstrek is a good option for those who want to drive a smaller compact vehicle but still have some towing capability. It can tow small campers, typically ranging from 6 to 14 feet in length, such as teardrop campers, lightweight stand-up campers, and small pop-up campers.
There are a variety of campers on the market that are suitable for the Subaru Crosstrek, and it is important to consider the weight and features that are important to you. Some campers have basic features, such as a bed and storage, while others offer more amenities like a kitchen, air conditioning, and entertainment systems. Additionally, it is worth noting that the plug on the Crosstrek may not have enough pins to support trailer brakes, so it is important to consider the type of trailer brakes when making a decision.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Maximum towing capacity | 1,500 lbs (680 kg) |
Max trailer weight with trailer brakes | 1,500 lbs (680 kg) |
Max trailer weight without trailer brakes | 1,000 lbs (454 kg) |
Max hitch weight | 150 lbs (68 kg) |
Engine | 2.0L or 2.5L Subaru Boxer 4-cylinder |
What You'll Learn
The Subaru Crosstrek's towing capacity
The Subaru Crosstrek has a towing capacity of 1,500 pounds and is capable of pulling small trailers, motorcycles, jet skis, small boats, or lightweight campers. However, it is important to note that the maximum towing capacity is for trailers with trailer brakes, and the capacity is 1,000 pounds for trailers without trailer brakes. This means that the Crosstrek's towing capacity is maxed out at 1,000 pounds unless the trailer has brakes.
The Crosstrek's towing capacity makes it a good option for those who want to drive a smaller, compact vehicle but still have some towing capability. It is capable of towing smaller teardrop campers, lightweight stand-up campers, and even some small pop-up campers. There are a variety of campers available in the market that fall within the towing capacity of the Subaru Crosstrek. Some popular options include the Taxa Outdoors Woolly Bear, Little Guy Trailers MyPod, Sylvansport Go Trailer, and the Aliner Scout Lite. These campers offer different features and amenities, such as sleeping capacity, kitchen, and entertainment systems, while still being lightweight and easy to tow.
When considering towing a camper with a Subaru Crosstrek, it is important to take into account the weight of the camper, as well as any additional gear or equipment that will be loaded into the camper. It is crucial to ensure that the total weight does not exceed the maximum towing capacity of the vehicle. Additionally, it is recommended to follow the manufacturer's guidelines and advice for safe towing practices.
While the Subaru Crosstrek has a decent towing capacity for its class and size, there are other vehicles in the market with higher towing capacities. For those who require a vehicle with a higher towing capacity, the Subaru Ascent is an option, with a towing capacity ranging from 2,000 to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
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Camper options for the Crosstrek
The Subaru Crosstrek is a popular choice for those seeking a compact and budget-friendly crossover vehicle. While it may not be the obvious choice for towing a camper, the Crosstrek can handle smaller trailers with a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 pounds. Here are some camper options that are well-suited for the Subaru Crosstrek:
Taxa Outdoors Woolly Bear
The Taxa Outdoors Woolly Bear is an excellent choice for off-road and off-grid camping. With a dry weight of 1,270 pounds, it is very close to the max tow capacity of the Crosstrek. This pop-up camper features a powder-coated steel chassis, torsion axle suspension, a Lock-n-Roll hitch, and all-terrain tires. It also offers comfort features such as an onboard AGM battery, a pre-wired solar port, LED lighting, and multiple USB ports.
Little Guy Trailers MyPod
The Little Guy Trailers MyPod is the lightest camper on the market, weighing just 760 pounds. Its moulded fiberglass body and lightweight frame make it an ultra-compact option. Despite its size, the MyPod includes a full-size bed, a three-speed fan, AC, an entertainment system, and both 12V and 110V outlets. It can also be equipped with an optional screen room tent that increases its sleeping capacity to five.
Sylvansport Go Trailer
The Sylvansport Go Trailer is the lightest pop-up camper available, weighing just 840 pounds. It doubles as a storage and utility trailer, making it perfect for outdoor adventures. It features a rooftop equipment rack, a spacious front storage box, and a tilting gear deck, allowing you to bring bikes, kayaks, and other gear. Despite its small size, it can sleep up to four campers comfortably.
Aliner Scout Lite
The Aliner Scout Lite is one of the most affordable pop-up campers, with a dry weight of 1,190 pounds and a price of around $14,500. It has a unique hard-sided design that allows you to set it up in about a minute. The Scout Lite offers features such as an onboard battery, solar port, LED lighting, a fan, hypoallergenic mattresses, a convertible dinette booth, and even an optional air conditioner.
Timberleaf Pika
The Timberleaf Pika is an excellent choice for off-road adventures, thanks to its sturdy steel frame, torsion axle, and aluminum construction. It can be equipped with off-road packages that further enhance its capabilities. The Pika offers a comfortable interior with a double mattress, LED lighting, USB ports, and a spacious rear galley. You can also opt for additional features like a refrigerator and a heater.
Bean Stock 2.0
The Bean Stock 2.0 is a no-frills off-road trailer, focusing on affordability, lightweight construction, and off-road capability. It has a one-piece fiberglass shell, composite honeycomb sidewalls, and a Timbren HD suspension. Despite its compact size, the Bean Stock 2.0 offers a spacious interior with headroom, a queen-sized bed, solar power, and dimmable lighting.
InTech Flyer Chase
The inTech Flyer Chase is a teardrop camper, which is known for its small size and lightweight construction. It serves as the perfect basecamp for camping, offering a versatile interior, ample storage, a comfortable mattress, LED lighting, and Bluetooth stereo. The Flyer Chase can also be equipped with an optional add-a-room tent that increases its sleeping capacity to five.
13-Foot Scamp Trailer
The Scamp Trailer has a dedicated following thanks to its compact size and lightweight design. The 13-foot model is one of the smallest and shortest campers available, yet it offers a surprisingly functional interior. To stay within the Crosstrek's towing capacity, opt for the standard version without a bathroom. This model provides a four-person sleeping capacity.
Little Guy Trailers Meerkat
The Little Guy Trailers Meerkat is a unique stand-up camper with a pop-top design. It has a low profile during travel but offers ample headroom when in camp mode. This lightweight camper includes features such as a porta-potty and an interior kitchen.
Happier Camper HC1
The Happier Camper HC1 is one of the most expensive options, but it offers exceptional functionality and versatility. It features a modular interior that allows you to customize the layout to your needs. Additionally, all the components can be removed, transforming it into a fully enclosed utility trailer. The Happier Camper HC1 provides the benefits of two trailers in one.
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The Crosstrek's suitability for towing
The Subaru Crosstrek is a suitable vehicle for towing small trailers, motorcycles, jet skis, small boats, and lightweight campers. Its compact size and budget-friendly price make it a popular choice for those seeking a crossover with towing capabilities. While its towing capacity is lower than that of larger vehicles, it performs well within its class and size.
The Crosstrek has a towing capacity of 1,500 pounds, although it is recommended not to exceed 1,000 pounds unless the trailer has brakes. This limit includes the weight of any gear or cargo loaded into the camper. The standard 1.25-inch receiver hitch is rated for a gross towing weight of 3,500 pounds and a tongue weight of 525 pounds. However, it is important to follow the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations and not exceed the vehicle's capacity.
When towing with the Crosstrek, it is crucial to consider the height and width of the load, as these factors can significantly impact performance and fuel efficiency. Staying within the speed limit, especially on freeways, and being cautious with braking and sudden manoeuvres are also important considerations. Additionally, ensuring proper tongue weight is essential to prevent trailer sway.
The Crosstrek's performance when towing between 1,000 and 1,500 pounds is adequate, although it may struggle with acceleration and uphill climbs. Keeping a lower speed, especially on uphill grades, can help mitigate these challenges. The Crosstrek is also more affected by high winds and overpasses at higher speeds.
Overall, the Subaru Crosstrek is a capable tow vehicle for its size, making it a good choice for those seeking a compact vehicle with some towing capability. Its standard all-wheel drive, high ground clearance, and cargo-carrying capacity further enhance its versatility. However, it is important to be mindful of its limitations and not exceed its recommended towing capacity.
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The Crosstrek's performance when towing
The Subaru Crosstrek has a towing capacity of 1,500 lbs. However, it is recommended that you do not exceed 1,000 lbs unless your trailer has brakes. The plug on the Crosstrek does not have enough pins to support trailer brakes, so you may need to install an aftermarket trailer brake controller and a new plug.
When towing something between 1,000 and 1,500 lbs, the Crosstrek performs adequately. One owner reported towing a small tractor (combined weight of tractor and trailer: 2,000 lbs) 50 miles at 55 mph without issue. Another owner reported towing their ATV and gear (weight: 1,200 lbs) at 70 mph, achieving 18 mpg. However, they noted that a headwind or overpass will affect performance at those speeds.
The height of what you are towing also seems to make a difference. One owner reported that if what they are towing rides higher than the roof of the Crosstrek, performance takes a big hit.
It is recommended that you keep your speed low when towing with the Crosstrek to avoid putting strain on the transmission. Additionally, be careful with braking and sudden swerves, as you would with any tow vehicle.
Overall, the Subaru Crosstrek is capable of towing small trailers, motorcycles, jet skis, small boats, and lightweight campers. Just be mindful of the weight and height of what you are towing, and adjust your speed accordingly.
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Camper weight and capacity considerations
When towing a camper with a Subaru Crosstrek, it's important to consider the weight of the camper and ensure it doesn't exceed the vehicle's towing capacity. The maximum towing capacity for the 2023 and 2024 Subaru Crosstrek is 1,500 pounds, while the 2020 model with a manual transmission has a capacity of 1,500 pounds and 1,000 pounds for the continuously variable transmission (CVT) models. The 2024 Crosstrek Wilderness has an impressive capacity of 3,500 pounds.
It's crucial to note that these capacities are maximum values, and the actual towing capacity can vary depending on factors such as the weight of the trailer, its contents, altitude, and weather conditions. Therefore, it's recommended to consult the owner's manual or a Subaru dealer to ensure you don't exceed the recommended limit.
When considering a camper for the Subaru Crosstrek, it's important to choose one that falls within the vehicle's towing capacity. Several lightweight campers are compatible with the Crosstrek, including teardrop campers, lightweight stand-up campers, and small pop-up campers. Some specific models that can be considered are the Little Guy Trailers Meerkat, the Happier Camper HC1, and the Taxa Outdoors Woolly Bear, among others.
Additionally, it's important to keep in mind the weight of any gear or equipment loaded into the camper, as this will add to the overall weight being towed. It's also worth noting that the Subaru Crosstrek can handle a hitch weight of up to 150 pounds, which is the maximum tongue weight or the downward force exerted by the trailer on the hitch.
In conclusion, by carefully considering the weight and capacity limitations, you can safely and effectively tow a camper with your Subaru Crosstrek, enjoying the benefits of a compact vehicle with decent towing capabilities.
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Frequently asked questions
Campers that are suitable for the Subaru Crosstrek include the Taxa Outdoors Woolly Bear, the Little Guy Trailers MyPod, the Sylvansport Go Trailer, the Aliner Scout Lite, the Timberleaf Pika, the Bean Stock 2.0, the inTech Flyer Chase, the Scamp Trailer, the Little Guy Trailers Meerkat, and the Happier Camper HC1.
The Subaru Crosstrek has a towing capacity of 1,500 pounds. However, it is recommended that you do not exceed 1,000 pounds unless the trailer has brakes.
When towing a camper with a Subaru Crosstrek, it is important to consider the weight of the camper and any additional gear loaded into it. Ensure that the total weight does not exceed the vehicle's towing capacity. Additionally, be mindful of the type of trailer brakes and the hitch weight capacity.