Recommended Trailer Hitch Options for 2020 Subaru Crosstrek

Question:

Wanted to know what finish is applied to your trailer hitches? Looking at Crosstreks this weekend to buy, will the free shipping be applicable if I order on Monday June 29th as I noticed a timer now counting down the free shipping and need to have the car in hand before. What is the difference in function/construction between the Draw-Tite and Curt Class II trailer hitches other than price? Does one clear the muffler tailpipe better than the other as the Draw-Tite looked close? Using your hitch for THULE bike rack only. Thank You - KC

asked by: KC

Expert Reply:

The trailer hitches are finished with a durable powder coating. The Curt and Draw-Tite hitches are welded together from tube stock and flat steel that are very similar. In my opinion, Curt does a tiny bit better job with their powder coat application.

When given the choice, I always recommend using a Class Ill hitch because there's a much greater selection of hitch mounted accessories available for the more common 2 inch Class III receiver. Although the Curt # C13382 and Draw-Tite # 76209 appear quite different, they both attach at the same place on the vehicle. The Curt hitch installs so the crossbar is concealed behind the bumper of the vehicle, for what I think is a much better appearance. When installed, the Curt hitch is a bit further away from the muffler.

If you had your heart set on a Class II hitch, the hitches are basically identical to their Class III counterparts, with the exception of the size of the receiver tube, and would install in the same manner. The Curt Class II, part # C12184 would fit around the muffler a bit better than the Draw-Tite # 36644.

I've linked to some installation videos for the Curt and Draw-Tite Class III hitches. The install procedure for the Class II hitches would be identical.

I wouldn't worry about the shipping offer disappearing any time in the near future. Just tell 'em Mike said it's okay.