Recommended Hitch for 2013 Impreza Sport for Carrying Bike Rack

Question

Question:

I want a simple hitch that can handle a bike rack. I dont want to fuss around under the car manipulating any sort of fit. Can you please share with me if this one fits?

asked by: Tara

0

Expert Reply:

According to my research, the Impreza Sport is the hatchback model. The correct hitch for your vehicle will depend on whether it has single or quad-tip exhausts. For the single exhaust, I would recommend the Draw-Tite Class I receiver, part # DT24959. If you have the WRX or WRX STi model, you will need to use the Curt Class I, part # C11120.

The Draw-Tite model will install without the need to drill any holes in the vehicle frame, but the holes in the frame rail will need to be enlarged slightly. The Curt hitch will not require drilling either, but a 4 inch by 1-5/8 section of the underside of the bumper fascia will need to be notched in order to clear the receiver tube of the hitch. You can see installation details for both hitches by clicking the provided links.

Because the hitch uses a Class I hitch, be sure that the rack you choose is Class-I compatible. Due to the low tongue weight capacity of a Class I hitch, you will be limited to carrying a maximum of two bikes.

I have linked you to our selection of Class I compatible bike racks for you to look over. My favorite is the Swagman Trailhead, part # S63360 which is also very popular among Subaru Impreza owners.

To carry women's bikes or bikes with sharply angled top tubes or step-through frames, using a frame adapter like part # 64005 is recommended. The adapter spans the distance between the seat post and the handle bar gooseneck, and provides a level attachment point to the bike rack so the bike has greater ground clearance and is not carried at an angle.

A trunk mount rack might also be a good option for you. If your Impreza sport has a spoiler on top of the hatch, the only rack we offer that is a fit would be the Yakima HangOut 2, part # Y02637. If you do not have the spoiler, I would highly recommend the Thule OutWay, part # TH45JV for a 2 bike model or # TH56BV for a 3-bike. The OutWay is extremely easy to install and remove, which is why it is one of our best selling bike racks. It also includes locks for both the rack and the bikes.

The # 24710 hitch is a fit for Impreza models up to the 2007 model year, and unfortunately would not fit your 2013 model.