Recommended Hitch and 7-Way Wiring Harness for a 2023 Subaru Crosstrek  

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To add a hitch to your 2023 Subaru Crosstrek you are going to want the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver item # C13382. This hitch is custom fit and bolts to your Subaru with included hardware.

I really like this design because it features a hidden crosstube that leaves only the 2" x 2" receiver visible. This is a class III hitch with a 2" receiver. It has a 3,500 lbs towing capacity, and a 525 lbs maximum tongue weight. It weighs 32 lbs. I have linked a couple pictures below along with an installation video to show you what this hitch looks like installed.

To add a 7-way connector to your Subaru you will need two separate wiring harnesses. The first one you will need is the Tekonsha Wiring Harness item # 118467. This custom-fit T-One connector plugs into your vehicle's wiring harness, which is located in your rear cargo area, either behind the driver's-side trim panel or in the spare tire compartment. It will provide you with a 4-flat connector to control your trailer's lights.

The second harness you will need is the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller item # ETBC7. The kit includes a pre-wired 7- and 4-way trailer connector that mounts easily at the rear of your Subaru with an included bracket. This kit is designed for use on a vehicle with an existing 4-way flat trailer connector and plugs directly into it. 

Using the Curt Echo item # C51180 will keep you from having to mount a bulky brake controller inside your Subaru that will constantly be in the way and require you to cut and splice wires to install. The Echo will plug directly into your 7-Way connector and allows you to control the settings through an app on your phone. The Echo is a proportional brake controller that slows or stops your trailer when your Subaru decelerates. It uses Bluetooth to communicate with your phone so you will never have to worry about losing signal. If your phone dies it automatically uses the default settings you program in.

If you like the reassurance of a manual override button you will want the Manual Override Button for Curt Echo Brake Controller item # C83HR. You can mount it wherever you want it inside your vehicle.

I have linked a review and installation video below.

To round out your towing setup I recommend the Curt Towing Starter Kit for 2" Hitches item # C45534. This towing kit will provide you with a 2" ball and a fixed ball mount with a 3/4" rise and 2" drop. It also includes a hitch pin and clip, hitch receiver lock with keys, hitch cover, and a storage case.

expert reply by: Jerred H

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Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver item # C13382
(click to enlarge)

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver item # C13382
(click to enlarge)