Ground And Bumper Clearance Of TowSmart 2" Hitch Receiver On 2025 Subaru Outback

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

Question:

How far does this hitch stick out past the bumper on the 25 Outback? I don’t want my folding cargo carrier hitting the car.

asked by: Mike

Expert Reply:

That’s smart to check, Mike. Once installed on the 2025 Outback, the TowSmart # TS34ZR places the center of the hitch pin about 6 inches from the outer edge of the bumper. That means most folding bike racks and carriers will clear easily when stowed.

The receiver sits right below the bumper for a clean, nearly factory look, which gives you approximately 12" of ground clearance. It’s a solid setup if you’re planning road trips or hauling gear - just remember the hitch can also tow up to 4,500 lbs if you ever decide to pull a small trailer, but you don't want to exceed the limits of your Outback so I'd check the owner's manual.

Are you planning to use a specific cargo carrier model? I can confirm fit and ground clearance.

expert reply by: Andrew N

bumper clearance
(click to enlarge)

Ground clearance
(click to enlarge)

Mike

11/25/2025

Appreciate the info, Andrew. Do you know if that ground clearance is still okay when the Outback’s loaded down for a trip? I don’t want the carrier scraping on steep driveways.

Andrew N.

11/25/2025

@Mike yes, even with the Outback loaded for a trip, you should still have plenty of clearance. The TowSmart # TS34ZR gives you roughly 12" to the bottom of the receiver, and the Outback’s suspension doesn’t sag much unless you’re really maxing out the trunk and hitch capacity. Most hitch-mounted carriers sit a bit higher than the receiver anyway, especially the ones with a built-in rise, so they stay clear of steep driveway aprons and gas station dips. If you tell me which carrier you’re considering, I can check its rise and overall clearance so you know exactly what to expect fully loaded.