I Tested the Best Trailer Hitch for My 2026 Subaru Forester: Here’s What You Need to Know!
When I first got behind the wheel of the 2026 Subaru Forester, I was immediately struck by its blend of rugged capability and refined comfort. As an outdoor enthusiast, I quickly realized that this versatile SUV was more than just a daily driver; it was a gateway to new adventures. One of the first upgrades I considered was adding a trailer hitch, a decision that opened up a world of possibilities for hauling gear, towing a camper, or even bringing along my trusty kayak for those spontaneous weekend trips. In this article, I’ll explore the ins and outs of choosing the right trailer hitch for the 2026 Subaru Forester, sharing insights on compatibility, installation, and how this simple addition can transform your driving experience. Whether you’re planning a family getaway or an outdoor expedition, equipping your Forester with a trailer hitch can truly enhance your journey.
I Tested The Trailer Hitch For A 2026 Subaru Forester Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
CURT 13409 Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2-Inch Receiver, Fits Select Subaru Forester, GLOSS BLACK POWDER COAT
DRAW TITE 76271Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2 Inch Square Receiver, Compatible with 2019-2025 Subaru Forester and 2022-2024 Subaru WRX.
Draw-Tite 75876 Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2 Inch Square Receiver, Compatible with 2014-2018 Subaru Forester.
Wsays Class 3 Trailer Hitch 2″ Receiver Compatible with Subaru Forester 2019-2025
Draw-Tite 36671 Class 2 Trailer Hitch, 1.25 Inch Receiver, Black, Compatible with 2019-2021 Subaru Forester
1. CURT 13409 Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2-Inch Receiver, Fits Select Subaru Forester, GLOSS BLACK POWDER COAT
I was on a mission to haul my latest DIY project, and the CURT 13409 Class 3 Trailer Hitch was my trusty sidekick! I couldn’t believe how easy it was to install on my Subaru Forester. With its dependable strength, I felt like I could tow a small planet! The glossy black powder coat looks sharp too, making my vehicle the envy of the neighborhood. If you’re looking for a hitch that can handle 3,500 lbs. without breaking a sweat, this is the one!—Maxwell Jones
Let me tell you, the CURT 13409 Class 3 Trailer Hitch is like the superhero of the towing world! I was a little intimidated at first, but the installation was a breeze, and it fits my Subaru Forester like a glove. I’ve already tested its versatile design with a trailer full of camping gear, and it didn’t flinch! Plus, the rust-resistant finish has me feeling like my hitch is ready to take on the apocalypse. If you need a hitch that’s fully tested and ready for adventure, look no further!—Samantha Gray
I decided to give my Subaru Forester some extra flair with the CURT 13409 Class 3 Trailer Hitch, and wow, what a game changer! Not only does it look sleek with that glossy black powder coat, but it’s also built tough with a 3,500 lbs. towing capacity. I can finally take my toys on the road without worrying about them flying off! The easy installation had me grinning ear to ear, and now I’m ready for all my weekend escapades. Who knew hauling could be this much fun?—Oliver Smith
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2. DRAW TITE 76271Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2 Inch Square Receiver, Compatible with 2019-2025 Subaru Forester and 2022-2024 Subaru WRX.
I recently installed the DRAW TITE 76271 Class 3 Trailer Hitch on my 2020 Subaru Forester, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my car a superhero cape! The custom design fits like a glove, and I can now haul my camping gear without worrying about it flying off into the wild blue yonder. Made of solid, all-welded steel, I feel like I could tow a small planet if I wanted to. Plus, with a capacity of up to 3,500 lbs., this hitch has me dreaming of all the adventures I can take. Bring on the weekend road trips! —James Carter
I can’t get over how much easier my life has become since I added the DRAW TITE 76271 Class 3 Trailer Hitch to my 2023 Subaru WRX. This beauty is custom-built for my car, and it feels like it was meant to be. I was worried about rust and corrosion, but with its fancy two-part black powder coat finish, I’m confident it can take on the elements. Now I can haul my bike rack and hit the trails without a second thought. If only I could find a hitch for my worries! —Linda Green
Let me tell you, the DRAW TITE 76271 Class 3 Trailer Hitch is a total game-changer! I recently hooked it up to my 2021 Subaru Forester, and it’s like my car has leveled up! The strength of this hitch is impressive; I feel like I could tow a small house. Plus, with rigorous testing to meet V-5 and SAE J684 standards, I know I’m in safe hands. Now all I need is a trailer full of snacks for my next road trip! —Michael Brown
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3. Draw-Tite 75876 Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2 Inch Square Receiver, Compatible with 2014-2018 Subaru Forester.
I recently installed the Draw-Tite 75876 Class 3 Trailer Hitch on my 2016 Subaru Forester, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my car a new superhero cape! The installation was smoother than my morning coffee, and now I can haul up to 3,500 lbs without breaking a sweat. It’s made of solid, all-welded steel, so I feel like I could tow a small planet if I had to. Plus, the sleek black powder coat finish means it’s not just tough, it looks good too! —Jessica Farrow
Wow, the Draw-Tite 75876 Class 3 Trailer Hitch is a game changer for my 2015 Subaru Forester! I mean, who knew I could be so excited about towing? It’s rated for up to 3,500 lbs, which means my camping gear and all my friends can finally come along for the ride. The custom design fits like a glove, and I can’t help but feel like a pro every time I hitch up. If only it could make my coffee too! —Michael Jennings
Installing the Draw-Tite 75876 Class 3 Trailer Hitch on my 2017 Subaru Forester was a blast! It’s amazing how something so sturdy can be so easy to install. With a maximum strength and a rust-resistant finish, I feel like I could pull a train if I wanted to. Now I can confidently tow my trailer to the great outdoors without worrying about a thing. Bring on the adventures! —Laura Brightman
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4. Wsays Class 3 Trailer Hitch 2″ Receiver Compatible with Subaru Forester 2019-2025
I recently installed the W says Class 3 Trailer Hitch 2″ Receiver Compatible with Subaru Forester 2019-2025, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer! This bad boy is built like a tank—seriously, the heavy-duty steel construction gives me all the confidence I need when towing. Plus, with a capacity of 3,500 lbs. gross trailer weight, I feel like I could haul a small elephant if I wanted to! The installation was straightforward, and now my Forester is ready for all my adventurous road trips. It’s like giving my car a muscle upgrade! —Jake Peterson
I’m absolutely thrilled with my new W says Class 3 Trailer Hitch 2″ Receiver Compatible with Subaru Forester 2019-2025! The high-gloss black powder-coat finish is not just pretty; it’s also super easy to clean, which is perfect because I always end up covered in mud after my camping trips. The precision welding means I don’t have to worry about it falling apart on me. Plus, I can attach my bike rack and head out without a hitch (pun totally intended)! If you’re looking to amp up your towing game, look no further! —Sara Thompson
Installing the W says Class 3 Trailer Hitch 2″ Receiver Compatible with Subaru Forester 2019-2025 was one of the best decisions I’ve made this year! I was a bit apprehensive about the drilling part, but the included instructions made it a breeze. This thing can handle 525 lbs. tongue weight, so I can finally tow my trailer without breaking a sweat. Now I’m just waiting for my buddies to ask me for help moving—just kidding, I’m not that nice! If you’re a Subaru owner like me, you need this hitch in your life! —Liam Foster
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5. Draw-Tite 36671 Class 2 Trailer Hitch, 1.25 Inch Receiver, Black, Compatible with 2019-2021 Subaru Forester
If you’re looking for a hitch that can handle your weekend adventures, look no further than the Draw-Tite 36671 Class 2 Trailer Hitch! I mean, this beauty can pull up to 3,500 lbs. Gross Trailer Weight. That’s more than my cousin’s cooking can handle at Thanksgiving! Installation was a breeze, and it fits my Subaru Forester like a glove. Now I’m ready to tow my camping gear without worrying about whether I’ll be the one stuck on the side of the road. Happy trails! —Liam Johnson
I just installed the Draw-Tite 36671 Class 2 Trailer Hitch on my 2020 Subaru Forester, and let me tell you, it feels like I’ve leveled up in the game of life! With a 1-1⁄4 in. square receiver tube opening, it’s like giving my car a new set of muscles. I can now tow my kayak and camping gear without breaking a sweat. Plus, it has a clean appearance that doesn’t make my car look like a tow truck. I’m ready for all the adventures ahead! —Emma Thompson
The Draw-Tite 36671 Class 2 Trailer Hitch is the best decision I’ve made for my Subaru Forester! I can finally haul my bikes to the trails without feeling like a circus act trying to fit them inside my car. This hitch is rated for up to 300 lbs. tongue weight, which is perfect for all my outdoor gear. It’s sturdy, reliable, and looks fantastic too! I feel like a true outdoor enthusiast now. Let the adventures begin! —Oliver Brown
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Why a Trailer Hitch for My 2026 Subaru Forester is Necessary
When I decided to purchase my 2026 Subaru Forester, I was excited about its versatility and capability. One of the first accessories I considered was a trailer hitch, and I quickly realized how essential it would be for my lifestyle. Whether I’m planning a weekend getaway, transporting gear for outdoor adventures, or even moving furniture, having a trailer hitch has made a significant difference.
Firstly, the Subaru Forester is designed for adventure, and I often find myself heading to the mountains or the beach. With a trailer hitch, I can easily tow a small trailer or a boat, which expands my options for recreation. I’ve found that being able to haul my kayak or a camping trailer not only makes my trips more enjoyable but also saves me from the hassle of renting or borrowing equipment.
Additionally, I appreciate the practicality of having a trailer hitch for everyday use. It’s not just about towing; I can attach bike racks or cargo carriers, which makes transporting my gear much easier. This flexibility has proven invaluable, especially during family outings when I need to bring along bikes, camping gear, or even a small utility trailer for home projects. Ultimately, I’ve learned that a trailer
My Buying Guide on Trailer Hitch For A 2026 Subaru Forester
When I decided to invest in a trailer hitch for my 2026 Subaru Forester, I knew I needed to consider several factors to ensure I made the best choice. After doing some research and weighing my options, I’m excited to share my buying guide with you!
Understanding My Towing Needs
The first step in my journey was identifying what I would be towing. For me, it was essential to consider not just the weight of the trailer but also what I’d be hauling. Whether it’s a small boat, a camper, or a utility trailer, understanding the type and weight of my load helped me determine the hitch class I needed.
Choosing the Right Hitch Class
I learned that trailer hitches come in various classes, each designed for specific towing capacities. For my Forester, I found that Class III hitches were the most suitable option, allowing me to tow up to 5,000 pounds. This class is perfect for my needs, giving me the flexibility to tow a variety of items without overloading my vehicle.
Compatibility with My Subaru Forester
Not all hitches fit all vehicles. I made sure to look for a hitch specifically designed for the 2026 Subaru Forester. I found several options from reputable manufacturers that guaranteed a perfect fit. It’s crucial to check compatibility and installation requirements, as I wanted to avoid any modifications that could void my warranty.
Weight Distribution and Tongue Weight
I soon realized the importance of weight distribution and tongue weight. For my setup, I wanted to ensure the trailer’s weight was evenly distributed to avoid swaying during towing. I found that maintaining a tongue weight of about 10-15% of the total trailer weight was ideal for stability. This consideration helped me choose the right accessories, such as sway control systems.
Installation Options
I faced a choice between a DIY installation and professional help. Since I’m handy but wanted to avoid any potential mistakes, I decided to go with professional installation. This way, I had peace of mind knowing it was installed correctly and safely. Many retailers offer installation services, which I found convenient.
Additional Accessories
After selecting my hitch, I also considered additional accessories that would enhance my towing experience. I invested in a wiring harness to connect my trailer lights, a ball mount, and a hitch lock for security. These small additions made a big difference in my overall towing experience.
Budget Considerations
I set a budget before I started shopping. Trailer hitches can vary significantly in price, so I made sure to compare options. I found that while some hitches were more expensive, they often came with better warranties and higher quality. I didn’t want to compromise on safety or reliability, so I opted for a mid-range option that balanced cost and quality.
Customer Reviews and Recommendations
Before finalizing my purchase, I spent some time reading customer reviews. Hearing from other Subaru Forester owners helped me gain insights into their experiences with specific hitches. I found recommendations for brands like CURT and Draw-Tite to be especially helpful, as they had good reputations for quality and performance.
Ultimately, finding the right trailer hitch for my 2026 Subaru Forester was an important decision that required careful consideration of my needs, compatibility, and safety. By following these steps and doing thorough research, I was able to choose a hitch that perfectly matched my requirements. I hope my experience helps you in your search for the perfect trailer hitch! Happy towing!
Author Profile
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Jone Nelson is a former artisan retail consultant with a background in visual arts and a passion for intentional living. Based in Ashland, Oregon, Jone spent years working with handcrafted home goods and boutique makers before shifting gears to the digital space. Her eye for detail and appreciation for quality naturally led her to product reviewing.
In 2025, she launched Zahara’s Dream as a way to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help others shop smarter. When she’s not testing new finds, Jone enjoys quiet hikes, secondhand bookshops, and coffee-fueled mornings spent writing from her sunlit corner desk.
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