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If you need to carry a bike rack, cargo carrier, or light trailer on a 2017-2023 Subaru Impreza, picking the right trailer hitch matters for safety and daily drivability. The wrong hitch can complicate installation, reduce ground clearance, or exceed your vehicle's recommended loads. This guide gathers the top shortlisted trailer hitches compatible with the 2017-2023 Impreza and explains the decision factors owners should weigh.Across the picks we evaluated fitment, towing and tongue weight capacity, mounting style, and installation considerations. Read on to understand how each factor affects real-world use and what to expect during installation and ownership.
Looking for other parts? See all Subaru Impreza parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall Trailer Hitch The all-around top pick balancing strength, fit, and ease of install | Draw-Tite 36644 Class II Trailer Hitch, 1.25-Inch Receiver |  |
| Best Budget Trailer Hitch A low-cost hitch that provides safe basic towing on a tight budget | CURT Class 1 Trailer Hitch 1-1/4-Inch Receiver for Subaru Impreza |  |
| Best Premium Trailer Hitch Higher-end construction and features for users who want long-term value | Subaru Genuine Trailer Hitch L101SAL013 |  |
| Best Heavy-Duty Trailer Hitch Built for higher tongue weights and heavier towing demands | ROMELACK Class 3 2" Receiver Trailer Hitch for Subaru Crosstrek / Impreza Wagon |  |
| Best Compact Trailer Hitch Low-profile designs that preserve ground clearance and bumper appearance | CURT Class 1 Trailer Hitch with Ball Mount, 1-1/4-In Receiver for Select Impreza |  |
| Best 2-Inch Receiver Trailer Hitch Standard 2-inch receiver for broad accessory and ball-mount compatibility | Wsays Class 3 2" Receiver Trailer Hitch for Subaru Crosstrek and Impreza |  |
1. Draw-Tite 36644 Class II Trailer Hitch, 1.25-Inch Receiver
Best Overall Trailer Hitch
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3500 pounds |
|---|---|
| Pull Force | 3500 pounds |
| Material Type | Alloy Steel |
| Finish Type | Powder Coated |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
This Draw-Tite 36644 is a custom-fit Class II hitch that bolts to the Impreza/Crosstrek frame for light-duty towing and accessory use. It provides a 1.25-inch receiver and is rated for up to 3,500 pounds gross trailer weight and 350 pounds tongue weight, making it suitable for small trailers, bike racks, and cargo carriers. Constructed from all-welded alloy steel with a two-stage powder coat finish, the hitch feels sturdy and is built to resist corrosion on daily drivers exposed to road salt. Installation is straightforward for a DIYer with basic hand tools since it uses vehicle-specific mounting points and no major trimming is required. The hitch is not designed for weight-distribution systems and the smaller 1.25-inch receiver limits compatibility with many heavier towing accessories, so buyers should match accessory size and towing needs accordingly. For Impreza owners seeking a durable, easy-to-install light-duty hitch, this is a practical factory-quality option.
Best for: Someone who wants a durable, factory-quality hitch for light towing, bike racks, or cargo carriers on a 2017-2023 Subaru Impreza and prefers a straightforward DIY installation.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need to tow heavier trailers, use weight-distribution systems, or require a 2-inch receiver for broader accessory compatibility should look at higher-class hitches.
- Vehicle-specific design for a bolt-on fit to select Subaru Impreza and Crosstrek models
- All-welded alloy steel construction with powder coat finish for corrosion resistance
- 3,500 lb gross towing capacity and 350 lb tongue weight for light-duty towing
- Straightforward bolt-on installation suitable for competent DIY mechanics
- 1.25-inch receiver limits use with larger towing accessories and heavier trailers
- Not compatible with weight-distribution systems
Verdict: The best overall trailer hitch balances build quality, towing capacity, straightforward installation, and corrosion protection to suit most DIY mechanics' towing needs.
2. CURT Class 1 Trailer Hitch 1-1/4-Inch Receiver for Subaru Impreza
Best Budget Trailer Hitch
| Receiver size | 1-1/4-inch |
|---|---|
| Maximum towing capacity | 907 kg |
| Pull Force | 2000 pounds |
| Material Type | Carbon Steel |
This CURT Class 1 hitch is a straightforward, vehicle-specific tow solution for select 2017-2023 Subaru Impreza models that need light-duty towing or a hitch-mounted carrier. It installs using the factory mounting points and comes with the required hardware so a competent DIYer can typically fit it without major modifications. The 1-1/4-inch receiver and 2,000 lb GTW / 200 lb tongue weight rating make it well suited to bike racks, cargo carriers, small utility trailers, and lightweight campers. CURT applies a co-cured liquid Bonderite undercoat and powder coat finish for rust and chip resistance, and the welded steel construction reflects common industry build practices for durability at this class level. Limitations are inherent to any Class 1 hitch: the smaller receiver and lighter weight rating restrict it to light loads and certain accessory types, and it will not support weight-distribution systems or heavier trailers. For buyers prioritizing a low-cost, factory-style fit and straightforward function on an Impreza, this is a practical pick.
Best for: Drivers who want a low-cost, factory-quality hitch that installs cleanly and provides dependable light-duty towing or hitch-mounted cargo options without premium features.
Less Ideal for: Anyone planning to tow large trailers, frequently haul heavy loads, or require advanced towing features such as weight-distribution or higher-capacity receivers.
- Vehicle-specific design for a direct fit to select Subaru Impreza models
- Factory-style welded steel construction provides reliable light-duty strength
- 1-1/4-inch receiver and 2,000 lb GTW rating suitable for bike racks and small trailers
- Co-cured liquid Bonderite plus powder coat finish for improved rust and chip resistance
- Class 1 capacity limits use to light loads and smaller trailers
- Not compatible with weight-distribution systems or heavy-duty towing accessories
Verdict: The best budget trailer hitch gives reliable towing performance and acceptable durability at a lower price, ideal for DIYers who need functionality without premium features.
3. Subaru Genuine Trailer Hitch L101SAL013
Best Premium Trailer Hitch
| Included Components | Trailer Hitch |
|---|---|
| Finish Type | Powder Coated |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
This Subaru genuine trailer hitch is a factory replacement designed to restore towing capability with a bolt-on, vehicle-specific fit. It is typically used to attach a hitch-mounted carrier or tow small trailers and integrates with the vehicle frame where applicable. The hitch is powder coated for corrosion resistance and marketed as a high-quality OEM component, which should deliver tighter fitment and reliable alignment compared with generic units. As a Subaru-branded part it is intended for straightforward installation with factory mounting points and provides peace of mind when maintaining factory towing specifications. Limitations for buyers include minimal published technical details such as tongue weight or receiver size and only one image and basic listing information are available, so installers should confirm exact fit and required hardware before purchase. This part is best when you want a direct factory match rather than an aftermarket upgrade with expanded capacity or extended warranty coverage.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize factory-quality fit and straightforward replacement of a Subaru hitch and who prefer matching factory components when restoring towing capability.
Less Ideal for: Buyers seeking a heavy-duty aftermarket hitch with higher towing or tongue capacity, expanded receiver options, or detailed published load specifications should look elsewhere.
- Factory-branded design for precise fit with vehicle mounting points
- Powder coated finish for basic corrosion protection
- Sold as a direct replacement to restore factory towing configuration
- Listing lacks detailed load ratings and receiver size information
- Only basic product information and limited images available
Verdict: The best premium trailer hitch delivers superior materials, tighter tolerances, and longer corrosion warranties for buyers willing to pay more for durability and refined fitment.
4. ROMELACK Class 3 2" Receiver Trailer Hitch for Subaru Crosstrek / Impreza Wagon
Best Heavy-Duty Trailer Hitch
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 4500 Pounds |
|---|---|
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
| Material Type | Alloy Steel |
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Car |
This ROMELACK Class 3 trailer hitch provides a 2-inch receiver and a 4,500 lb maximum towing capacity for Crosstrek and Impreza Wagon fitments, delivering a strong factory-style solution for regular towing. It mounts without drilling by using existing vehicle holes, so installation is straightforward for DIYers with basic tools and a helper to hold the hitch in place. Built from alloy steel with electrophoresis priming and a black powder-coat finish, the hitch resists corrosion and cleans up easily after road exposure. The 2" receiver supports common accessories such as ball mounts, bike racks, cargo carriers, and dual extensions, making it versatile for work and recreation. Be aware this is a vehicle-specific fit and excludes WRX STi and cars with quad exhaust outlets, so verify compatibility before buying. Also, the listing does not include a wiring harness or ball mount, so additional towing hardware may be required to tow safely.
Best for: Buyers who tow frequently and need a sturdy, higher-capacity hitch tailored to Subaru Crosstrek or Impreza Wagon fitments and who are comfortable performing a bolted, DIY installation.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who require a universal hitch for multiple vehicle types or who need a complete tow setup including wiring and ball mount out of the box.
- Vehicle-specific fit for Crosstrek and Impreza Wagon for 2016–2026 and 2018–2024 ranges respectively
- Rated Class 3 with 4,500 lb maximum towing capacity and 675 lb tongue weight
- No-drill installation using factory mounting points for simpler DIY fitment
- Alloy steel construction with electrophoresis primer and powder-coat finish for corrosion resistance
- Standard 2" receiver compatible with common hitch accessories
- Does not include wiring harness, ball mount, or other towing hardware needed to tow
Verdict: The best heavy-duty trailer hitch is rated for higher gross trailer weight and tongue load, making it the right choice for DIYers who tow heavy loads or trailers regularly.
5. CURT Class 1 Trailer Hitch with Ball Mount, 1-1/4-In Receiver for Select Impreza
Best Compact Trailer Hitch
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 2000 Pounds |
|---|---|
| Pull Force | 2000 Pounds |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
| Material Type | Carbon Steel |
This CURT Class 1 hitch is a vehicle-specific, low-profile receiver made to fit select Subaru Impreza models and provide reliable light-duty towing. It installs under the rear of the car to create a 1-1/4-inch x 1-1/4-inch receiver that accepts the included ball mount for towing small trailers or attaching a bike rack or cargo carrier. Notable features include a 2,000 pound gross trailer weight rating, integrated safety chain loops, an open-back receiver for easy cleaning and a co-cured plus powder-coat finish that improves corrosion resistance. The ball mount offers a 3/4-inch trailer ball hole and can be used in rise or drop positions to help level light loads. The hitch is engineered for a precise, concealed fit that preserves the car's appearance and ground clearance while adding towing utility. Limitations are inherent to its class: it is intended only for light towing and uses a smaller 1-1/4-inch receiver, so it is not suitable for heavy trailers or accessories that require a 2-inch receiver.
Best for: Buyers who want a slim, factory-like hitch for a Subaru Impreza that adds everyday towing and accessory options without sacrificing ground clearance or rear styling.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need higher towing capacity or plan to use heavy trailers, large cargo carriers, or accessories that require a 2-inch receiver should choose a heavier-duty hitch.
- Vehicle-specific design for a precise, low-profile fit that preserves ground clearance and appearance
- 2,000 lb gross trailer weight and 200 lb tongue weight suitable for small trailers, bike racks, and cargo carriers
- Durable co-cured and powder-coat finish for strong corrosion and chip resistance
- Includes ball mount with reversible rise/drop position for level towing and integrated safety chain loops
- Class 1 capacity and 1-1/4-inch receiver limit towing to lighter loads and smaller accessories
Verdict: The best compact trailer hitch offers a slim, low-profile installation that keeps ground clearance and aesthetics while still providing dependable towing capability for lighter loads.
6. Wsays Class 3 2" Receiver Trailer Hitch for Subaru Crosstrek and Impreza
Best 2-Inch Receiver Trailer Hitch
| Class | 3 |
|---|---|
| Receiver Size | 2" |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 4500 pounds |
| Material Type | Alloy Steel |
| Finish Type | Powder Coated |
This Wsays Class 3 trailer hitch installs using factory mounting points to give Subaru Crosstrek and Impreza owners a standard 2-inch receiver for towing and accessory mounting. Built from heavy-duty alloy steel with an electrophoresed primer and black powder-coat finish, it resists corrosion and cleans up easily after exposure to road grime. The hitch is rated for 4,500 pounds gross trailer weight and a 675-pound tongue weight, so it can handle most small trailers, cargo carriers, and bike or cargo racks commonly used by DIYers. Installation claims no drilling and comes with hardware and instructions, which speeds fitting for someone comfortable with basic garage tools. It is a vehicle-specific aftermarket unit, so expect appearance and fit similar to a factory-style replacement but without brand-name dealer backing. If you need a heavier commercial towing solution or a multi-vehicle hitch, this part is focused strictly on the listed Subaru models and years.
Best for: Buyers who want a ready-to-fit 2-inch receiver for common trailers and hitch accessories on specified Subaru Crosstrek or Impreza models and prefer a DIY installation using factory mounting points.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who regularly tow loads beyond light trailer or cargo rack duty or who need a hitch designed for multiple vehicle types should consider higher-capacity or universal solutions.
- Standard 2-inch receiver fits a wide range of ball mounts and accessories
- 4,500 lb towing capacity and 675 lb tongue weight suitable for most light towing tasks
- Vehicle-specific design uses factory holes for no-drill installation on listed models
- Alloy steel construction with electrophoresed primer and powder-coat for corrosion resistance
- Includes installation hardware and instructions for DIY fitting
- Aftermarket brand with limited manufacturer recognition compared with dealer parts
Verdict: The best 2-inch receiver trailer hitch provides the common receiver size and capacity compatibility most DIYers need for attaching a wide range of accessories and ball mounts.
Choosing the Right 2017-2023 Subaru Impreza Trailer Hitch: Key Factors to Consider
Weight Rating and Vehicle Limits
A hitch's gross trailer weight and tongue weight ratings determine what you can safely tow and carry. For the 2017-2023 Subaru Impreza, confirm the hitch's published ratings and ensure they do not exceed the vehicle manufacturer's maximum tow and tongue weights. Exceeding those limits can overload the drivetrain, brakes, and suspension, and may compromise vehicle stability.
Pay attention to tongue weight for accessories such as bike racks or cargo carriers. Even when not towing a trailer, tongue load affects rear suspension and handling. Choose a hitch with a rating that matches your intended use but leaves a margin for safety and occasional heavier loads.
Receiver Size and Class
Receiver size determines which accessories will fit directly. Many Impreza owners prefer a 2 inch hitch receiver for broad compatibility with bike racks, cargo carriers, and light trailers. Confirm the hitch class aligns with the receiver size, such as a Class II or Class III designation, and match that to your planned towing and accessory needs.
Higher classes generally offer greater strength but may add more visible hardware and require different mounting approaches. Ensure the chosen class and receiver size work with the most common accessories you intend to use to avoid buying adapters or compromises.
Mounting Method and Fitment
Hitches vary between bolt-on cross-tube designs and those that require cutting or trimming of the bumper fascia. For the Impreza, a hitch that uses existing factory mounting points or requires minimal trimming preserves appearance and reduces installation complexity. Proper fitment also helps avoid interference with exhaust components and rear sensors.
Check whether the hitch requires removal of the rear bumper or support bracket access and whether hardware is included. Ease of alignment and the number of fasteners affect how long the install will take and whether professional assistance is likely to be needed.
Ground Clearance and Rear Overhang
Adding a hitch can reduce rear ground clearance or change approach/departure angles, which matters on steep driveways or uneven roads. Choose a design that sits as close to the vehicle's frame as possible without reducing clearance below practical limits for daily driving.
Consider how accessories and trailers will extend beyond the rear bumper. For low-profile hitches, verify they still allow adequate clearance for speed bumps and curbs to avoid scraping and potential damage to the hitch or vehicle underbody.
Corrosion Protection and Durability
Hitches are exposed to road grime, salt, and moisture, so durable finishes and corrosion-resistant coatings extend service life. Look for high-quality powder coats, e-coats, or plated hardware designed for automotive exposure. Drainage and sealed welds help prevent rust from starting in concealed areas.
Durability also covers structural design. Reinforced gussets, adequate plate thickness, and well-executed welds reduce fatigue risk. For owners in coastal or winter-salt regions, prioritize corrosion resistance to lower long-term maintenance needs.
Installation Complexity and Maintenance
Installation can range from simple bolt-on procedures to more involved installs that require bumper removal or trimming. Consider whether you will install the hitch yourself or hire a shop. Hitches that reuse factory hardware or include comprehensive instructions will reduce installation time and potential errors.
Factor in periodic maintenance such as cleaning attachment points, inspecting fasteners, and treating visible corrosion. Ease of access to attachment bolts influences how straightforward routine inspections and torque checks will be over the life of the hitch.
Choosing the Right Receiver Size
Receiver size affects accessory compatibility more than vehicle performance. For Impreza owners, the 2 inch receiver is a common choice because it fits a wide range of racks and carriers while offering reasonable strength for light towing. If you only plan to mount a platform bike rack or cargo carrier, verify that the receiver size and accessory pin diameter match.
If you anticipate towing a small utility trailer occasionally, double-check the hitch class and associated tongue weight. A beefier receiver or higher class may be helpful, but it is still critical that the hitch's ratings do not exceed the Impreza's allowable limits.
- 2 inch receiver: broad accessory compatibility
- Smaller receivers limit heavy-duty accessories
- Adapters are available but can introduce movement and require care
What to Expect During Installation
Most Impreza-compatible hitches are designed for bolt-on installation using existing frame or bumper attachment points. Typical installs require temporary bumper removal or partial lowering of the fascia for access to mounting bolts. Many installations can be completed in a couple of hours with basic tools and a helper to align the hitch.
If the hitch design needs trimming of the bumper fascia, the job is still manageable with care and proper templates. Allow time for torqueing fasteners to specification and rechecking after a short break-in period. If you are uncomfortable with underbody fasteners or electrical wiring for trailer lights, professional installation is a reasonable option.
- Plan for 1 to 3 hours for a DIY install depending on experience
- Confirm included hardware and torque specs before starting
- Consider backing plates or thread-locking compound on exposed fasteners
Preserving Rear Sensors and Bumper Appearance
Some hitches are designed to work around factory parking sensors and preserve the rear bumper's look. When evaluating options, check whether the hitch clears sensor locations and whether the design keeps the fascia aligned to avoid cosmetic gaps after installation.
If a hitch requires bumper trimming, assess the visibility of the cut and whether it will be covered by the hitch fascia. Well-executed installations retain a near-factory appearance and avoid interfering with sensor wiring or rear cameras.
- Choose sensor-compatible designs to avoid rewiring
- Minimal trimming leads to cleaner cosmetic results
- Test-fit brackets and hardware before final tightening
Accessory Compatibility and Future Proofing
Think beyond the initial use. If you expect to add accessories such as a bike rack, cargo basket, or a ball mount later, ensure the hitch's receiver size and class support those accessories. Confirm accessory pin sizes and any needed anti-rattle solutions to reduce movement.
Consider installing a hitch with slightly higher accessory capacity than you need now so you do not need to swap hitches when needs change. That can be more cost-effective over time and reduces downtime.
- Match pin diameter and receiver class to intended accessories
- Look for options that accept common anti-rattle inserts
- Plan for future accessory purchases when selecting class and receiver size
Trailer Wiring and Electrical Considerations
Towing a trailer requires a compatible wiring harness for lights and braking systems. When selecting a hitch, confirm whether the installation process affects access points used for wiring. Some hitches provide convenient attachment points for a wiring connector or mounting bracket for a plug socket.
If you need a wiring harness, choose one designed for the Impreza that integrates with the vehicle's existing connectors. Keep in mind that electrical installation may add time and complexity compared with installing the hitch alone.
- Plan wiring routes before final hitch bolting
- Use vehicle-specific harnesses for reliable connections
- Protect connectors from road spray and debris
Maintaining Hitch Performance Over Time
Routine inspection and simple maintenance extend hitch life and help maintain safety. Periodically check fastener torque, look for rust or cracked welds, and ensure the receiver remains clean and free of debris. Lubricate moving parts and treat surface rust early to prevent deeper corrosion.
If you live in an area with heavy road salt or coastal exposure, schedule more frequent inspections and consider touch-up coatings for compromised paint. Addressing issues early prevents small concerns from becoming safety problems.
- Inspect fasteners and welds every few months or after heavy use
- Clean the receiver and apply rust inhibitor as needed
- Replace worn anti-rattle or locking hardware promptly
Still looking for the perfect fit?
Select your Subaru Impreza configuration to see the most relevant Trailer Hitches recommendations
How We Chose the Best 2017-2023 Subaru Impreza Trailer Hitch
We selected candidate trailer hitches by focusing on attributes that directly impact fitment, safety, and utility for the 2017-2023 Subaru Impreza. Primary evaluation criteria included certified weight ratings ensuring the hitch did not exceed the vehicle's tow and tongue weight limits, and mounting method compatibility with the Impreza's unibody and bumper geometry.We also prioritized hitches with robust corrosion resistance and durable finishes suitable for varied climates, since road salt and moisture can shorten lifespan. Installation practicality was important: we favored designs that allow use of existing bumper cutouts or straightforward bolt-on attachment to factory mounting points to minimize modification. Receiver size and class were checked for common accessory compatibility, and we assessed whether hitches preserved ground clearance and rear sensor function.Excluded items included universal or non-vehicle-specific kits that require significant frame welding or cutting, and any hitches lacking verifiable weight rating documentation. Final selections favored options that balance safety, ease of install, and long-term durability for typical Impreza towing and accessory use.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
Can the 2017-2023 Subaru Impreza tow a small trailer?
Often the Impreza can tow light loads, but capability depends on the vehicle's specific tow and tongue weight limits. Check the vehicle's owner manual and ensure the hitch's rated capacities do not exceed those limits before towing.
Is a 2 inch hitch receiver the best option for bike racks and cargo carriers?
Usually a 2 inch receiver offers the best balance of accessory compatibility and strength for bike racks and cargo carriers. It fits most common racks and allows for a variety of ball mounts if you plan occasional towing.
How difficult is it to install a trailer hitch on an Impreza myself?
Installation difficulty depends on the hitch design and your experience. Many Impreza hitches are bolt-on and manageable for someone with basic tools, while others require partial bumper removal or trimming. Allow several hours and follow instructions closely.
Will adding a hitch affect my Impreza's rear sensors or bumper look?
It depends on the hitch design. Some hitches preserve sensor locations and the factory appearance, while others require trimming of the fascia. Choose a sensor-compatible design if retaining factory features and appearance is important.
How do I know what trailer wiring I need?
The wiring needed depends on the trailer's lights and braking systems. A vehicle-specific wiring harness that taps into the Impreza's connectors is the most reliable option. If you will tow a trailer, plan wiring as part of the hitch install.
How often should I inspect the hitch after installation?
Inspect the hitch and fasteners after the first few hundred miles and then periodically every few months, or after exposure to heavy salt or off-road conditions. Check for loose fasteners, rust, and any signs of stress at welds.
Final Verdict
When selecting a trailer hitch for a 2017-2023 Subaru Impreza, prioritize a hitch with appropriate weight ratings that fall within the vehicle's tow and tongue limits. Match receiver size and class to the accessories or trailers you plan to use, and choose a mounting style that minimizes bumper modification while preserving ground clearance.Balance durability and corrosion protection with installation practicality. By focusing on fitment, rated capacities, and long-term maintenance needs, you can choose a hitch that expands the Impreza's utility without compromising safety or daily usability.
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