Best Trailer Hitch For 2018 Subaru Forester To Carry Thule Apex XT 4

Updated 09/02/2025 | Published 08/06/2025

Question:

Hi, Im looking to replace my existing Subaru Forester hitch that came wih it when I purchased the car, mainly because the factory hitch doesnt have enough depth for the hitch pin hole to securely attach my Thule Apex XT 4 see picture. So Im looking for a good replacement hitch that would meet this requirement but Im also considering upgrading to a 2in receiver vs the 1 1/4 on the factory one. I understand that this would increase my Tongue weight capacity, but looking at the specs of your hitch, they mostly have 3500 towing capacity. Looking at the specs of my Subaru Forester 2018, it mentions that the towing capacity is 1500 pounds. So my second quesiton is: will switching to a 3500 pound hitch increase my towing capacity or Im mainly limited by the car itself? Last question is Im lost between all the models that have a wide range of price but seem to have very similar specs. Can you help me choose what would be the right one with those needs: 1 needs to have de 1.5 in + depth for the pin hole 2 if it can contribute to increase towing capacity, its a big plus. 3 I use the hitch for bike rack but also with a trailer to tow my atv to the camp. Thanks in advance for you input on this. Cheers, Mike

asked by: Mike P

Thule Apex XT 4 Snip
(click to enlarge)

Expert Reply:

Hello Mike, thanks for reaching out. No, switching to a 3,500 lb hitch will not increase your towing capacity. Your towing setup is only as strong as the weakest component. So while the hitch may be rated for 3,500, if the car is only rated for towing 1,500 lbs that will be your limit. It is pretty common for trailer hitches to be rated higher than the vehicle itself.

That said, what I recommend for you is the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver # e98839. I measured the hitch pin hole on this hitch and it is 2-1/2" from the center of the hole to the edge of the receiver. So this will easily work with the Thule Apex XT 4 bike rack.

The hitch can be used for a bike rack or for a trailer. As long as you stay under the specified capacities you will be just fine.

expert reply by: Jesse M

Jesse M.

9/2/2025

Hey Mike, How did the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver work out for your needs with the Thule Apex XT 4 bike rack and towing your ATV trailer? I'm asking because your experience could really help others in a similar situation.