Hitch Receiver For 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Pulling Utility Trailer

Updated 11/25/2025 | Published 11/20/2025

Question:

I’ve got a 2024 Subaru Crosstrek and want to pull a small utility trailer for weekend yard work. Would this TowSmart hitch be okay for that, or is it too much hitch?

asked by: Linda

Expert Reply:

Hey Linda, this hitch is a great choice, not too much at all. The TowSmart # TS68ZR is rated for 4,500 lbs towing and 675 lbs tongue weight, but your 2024 Crosstrek’s tow rating is less and is going to be rated for either 1,500 lbs or 3,500lbs depending on the trim. I'd check the owner's manual since the vehicle itself will be the limiting factor.

The 2 inch receiver gives you flexibility for future racks or carriers too, since the majority of accessories are going to be in this 2" size.

What kind of trailer are you planning to tow? You may want to grab a wiring kit 4 way like # 119147KIT and maybe a ball mount kit if you don't already have one, such as # 989891

expert reply by: Andrew N

Brian

11/25/2025

I’ve got a 2024 Crosstrek Premium and I’m thinking about towing a small 4x8 utility trailer. Does the TowSmart hitch block the spare tire or anything underneath? And do you see any issues with towing a trailer? Thanks!

Andrew N.

11/25/2025

@Brian Hey Brian. First, no issues at all with the spare tire or anything underneath. The TowSmart # TS68ZR mounts directly to the frame rails and sits just below the bumper, so the spare stays in its original spot and everything under the Crosstrek remains fully functional. As for towing, you’re in good shape as long as you stay within your Crosstrek’s limits. The hitch itself is rated for 4,500 lbs, but your 2024 Crosstrek Premium is rated for 1,500 lbs max, so the vehicle will be your limiting factor, not the hitch. A small 4x8 utility trailer is usually perfect for that - just keep your load reasonable and balanced. To complete the setup, you’ll want the # 119147KIT 4-way wiring harness for trailer lights and the etrailer Ball Mount Kit # 989891 so you have both 2" and 1-7/8" balls for different trailer couplers. What do you plan on hauling in that trailer?