Trailer Hitch Recommendation for 2025 Subaru Outback Wagon
Updated 03/20/2026 | Published 03/17/2026
Question:
I am looking for a trailer hitch for my 2025 Subaru Outback Wilderness and need help choosing the best option for my specific needs. The most important factor is an easy DIY installation. I dont care about a clean or hidden look I just want the most straightforward bolt-on process possible. I also want to ensure I maintain the Wildernesss 9.5-inch ground clearance. My budget for the hitch is around $200, though I am willing to go up to $300 if it significantly improves the ease of installation or clearance. My primary uses will be: 1. A cargo basket or bike rack. 2. Potentially a hitch-mounted carrier for my 2022 Kawasaki KLR 650 Adventure approx. 490 lbs wet. This is just an idea for now and I could go without it, but it would be nice to know if its a realistic option. I am aware the vehicle has a 350 lb tongue weight limit—is there any setup you recommend that could safely handle this, or is a small trailer the only real way to go for a bike this size? Thank you, Morgan
asked by: Morgan J
Expert Reply:
Hey Morgan, the best hitch for what you are looking for would be the Draw Tite part # DT73RR which has the easiest install and the highest tongue weight rating. The hitch does fit right up under the rear bumper which will slightly reduce ground clearance but it shouldn't be to a significant enough of a degree to cause ground clearance issues. There really isn't a safe way to increase the tongue weight capacity of your vehicle to allow it to carry a nearly 500 lb motorcycle though so a small trailer is probably the best way to go. Where are you planning on taking your KLR?
(click to enlarge)
Dave B.
3/19/2026
I bought the hitch listed for my Outback. Works well within the tongue weight limitations. For you to hall your DR650 I'd recommend that hitch with a small trailer. Suspension gets real mushy over about 250 lbs.
Rick W.
3/19/2026
Hitch is fine on my outback Wilderness but it is really low to ground. When I put a luggage basket on back, it would scrape on slopes. So I bought a lifter from amazon. TOPTOW 64131 Dual Hitch Extension, 2 inch Towing Receivers, Extends Adjustable Length, 4,000lbs As for your application i would not put too much weight on ot. Better to get a small trailer
Mike B.
3/19/2026
Was extremely easy to put on and worked great on moving my son to college. 2022 Outback Limited. Definitely recommend
Jason O.
3/20/2026
I got the Draw Tite for my '24 Wilderness. The only tricky bit was that the instructions don't account for the dual exhaust of the Wilderness. In addition to what they show you will need to remove one muffler. It is super simple to remove, just a couple bolts. After that it went on easy. I use it for a two bike rack, it works great.
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on Trailer Hitch
David G.
3/19/2026
You simple call these people. They match you perfectly with the correct trailer and then you find an installer. I have two: 2016 Subaru Outback and 2025 Outback. If it’s possible to love a hitch; I love these.