The 7 Best Small SUVs For Towing, Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness Crushes The Rest

Let's get towing.

Do you want to tow a small camping trailer behind your new subcompact SUV? Which new model is the best? In an updated ranking from iSeeCars, they reveal that the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek and the next-generation model is far above the rest. 

iSeeCars says, "The best subcompact SUV for towing is the Subaru Crosstrek based on our analysis of the maximum towing capacity for each SUV." 

It's not even a close competition. 

The all-new Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness is the trim level to which you'll want to hook that trailer up. Crosstrek Wilderness has a max towing capacity of 3,500 lbs with an overall iSeeCars best car score of 7.8. The Jeep Compass comes in at number 2, with a max towing capacity of 2,000 lbs and an iSeeCars score of 8.0. Ranked #3 is the FIAT 500X with a 2,000 lbs tow rating and a 7.6 iSeeCars rating.

I've listed the best towing subcompact SUVs, starting with the best. There is the Crosstrek, and then there's the rest. 

• Subaru Crosstrek - 3,500 lbs

The Rest

• Jeep Compass - 2,000 lbs
• FIAT 500X - 2,000 lbs
• Jeep Renegade - 2,000 lbs
• Ford EcoSport - 2,000 lbs
• Dodge Hornet - 2,000 lbs
• Chevrolet TrailBlazer - 1,000 lbs

Key Subaru Crosstrek Towing Info

• Max Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs
• Max Payload: lbs
• GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): Not available
• Curb Weight: 3,369 lbs

There's more to the Crosstrek than towing capacity. 

ISeeCars ranks the Subaru Crosstrek as the number one vehicle in three additional areas: resale value, off-road performance, and overall value for money. 

• #1 of 67 Crossover SUVs with the best resale value
• #1 of 20 Best off-road subcompact SUV
• #1 of 20 subcompact SUVs with the best resale value

What sets the Crosstrek Wilderness apart from the rest? 

It's a combination of unique features that make it a standout in the subcompact SUV category.

Besides towing capacity, the Crosstrek Wilderness is light years ahead of the rest of the subcompact SUVs. Find out more in my Crosstrek Wilderness pricing and model guide here. 

Here is a brief overview. 

Off-Road Wheels with All-Terrain Tires

Subaru says standard 17-inch matte black-finish alloy off-road wheels "add powerful, practical style" and feature all-terrain Yokohama Geolander tires for improved mud, snow, gravel, and rock performance.

Subaru Boxer engine and revised drivetrain gearing

The 182-horsepower, 2.5-liter Subaru engine with a lower final-drive ratio for improved low-speed climbing is designed for serious off-roaders, with up to a 38-degree grade and a more substantial rear differential providing ample power and torque for challenging terrain.

9.3 Inches of ground clearance with front skid plate, improved angles, and dual-function X-Mode.

The Crosstrek Wilderness rises above rough terrain and adverse conditions with 9.3 inches of ground clearance, a standard front skid plate, and unique bumpers that help improve approach and departure angles. Standard dual-function X-Mode provides settings that can optimize traction for varying conditions, including dirt, deep snow, and mud.

Standard roof rails

The standard roof rails on the Crosstrek Wilderness can handle up to 700 pounds of static load for bikes, kayaks, or even a rooftop tent. Extra tie-down points provide even more cargo-hauling versatility, so you can bring any gear you need.

What are the best rooftop tents for your Subaru Crosstrek? Check out six top models that may be just what you need to have the best camping experience in my report here. 

Anti-Glare hood design

The Crosstrek Wilderness features a matte-black hood decal that helps reduce glare for a better view of the trail and adds an extra style element.

Water-Repellent StarTex upholstery

The Crosstrek Wilderness interior features advanced StarTex water-repellent upholstery for high-quality comfort, durability, and easy clean-up.

For outdoor enthusiasts who want to get far away from the city, any Crosstrek trim level will work. But the Wilderness trim level is unbeatable for those who want to get entirely off the grid, offering versatility and readiness for any adventure. 

Let's put a wrap on it. 

For outdoor enthusiasts, Subaru of America now offers the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness trim level. It is different from every other new compact SUV you can buy, offering unique selling points that will convince you of its superiority and reassure you of your smart choice. You can tow more, getting you further away from the city with a full load. 

Warning: If you enter a U.S. National Park and venture off onto the wrong trail, you could face a $5,000 fine or imprisonment from the National Park Service. Here's one Crosstrek owner's experience. Check out my report here. 

I am Denis Flierl, a top Torque News reporter since 2012. I’ve invested over 13 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role, working with every major car brand. I am an experienced Rocky Mountain Automotive Press member. You'll find my expert Subaru analysis here. Follow me on my X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

Photo credit: Subaru