Difference Between Curt and Draw-Tite Hitches for 2019 Subaru Crosstrek

Published 11/07/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(408)

$181.15

T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(2967)

$49.15

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(808)

$176.39

Curt Towing Starter Kit for 2" Hitches - 2" Ball - 2" Rise, 4" Drop - 7.5K

(782)

$84.82

Question:

Besides the higher capacity of the 76209 drawtite hitch, is there anything else that differentiates these two hitches? Which one is easier to install on a 2019 crosstrek? Is one more hidden than the other? I plan on towing an aluminum kayak trailer so weight isn't really an issue. Thanks!

asked by: Raymond

Expert Reply:

Yes, the biggest difference between the Curt trailer hitch # C13382 and the Draw-Tite Max-Frame hitch # 76209 is that cross-tube on the Curt hitch is hidden behind the bumper, whereas on the Draw-Tite it's fully visible as shown in the comparison photos on a 2019 Crosstrek I've attached. For this reason, I recommend the # C13382.

The installation on both hitches is pretty straight forward, requiring only to lower the muffler, insert the hardware in the frame and raise the hitch in place before torquing to specs. The Curt hitch will also sit slightly higher (15-1/4 inches), giving you 1 extra inch of ground clearance as well when compared to the 14-1/4 inches of ground clearance on the Draw-Tite.

As you mentioned, either hitch should be rated for more than enough to tow your lightweight aluminum kayak trailer. According to the online version of your owner's manual, your 2019 Subaru Crosstrek is limited to 1,000 lbs towing (1,500 when the trailer is equipped with brakes) and 200 max tongue weight anyway, but you'll want to confirm this in your printed copy.

To complete your towing package, I recommend the following:

T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector # 118467 - customer favorite for long-term dependability.

Curt Towing Starter Kit for 2" Hitches # C45554 - includes ball mount with a pre-torqued hitch ball; hitch pin and clip; hitch receiver lock with keys; hitch cover; and a storage case.

Check out the installation videos I've included for you at the bottom of the page.