Subaru Forester — 2014 - 2018 — Trailer Hitch by EcoHitch®
IN STOCK
Looking for a solid trailer hitch for your Subaru Forester? This one offers impressive performance and a quality build you can count on.
Are you a proud owner of a 2014-2018 Subaru Forester? If so, you’re in luck! EcoHitch® presents the Subaru Forester trailer hitch – boasting a fully concealed design that is easy and hassle-free. Bid farewell to tedious alterations and welcome this effortless installation that keeps your vehicle’s appearance sleek and untouched. Say yes to convenience, say yes to EcoHitch®.
Unlike bulky “diaper hitches” that hang low across your bumper and scrape, our streamlined design features a 100% concealed cross tube with a receiver that is angled upward just enough, offering you superior ground clearance and assuring your rack and bikes remain level and avoid scraping damage.
Featuring our 2" receiver, EcoHitch delivers unparalleled stability with a tongue weight rating of 525 pounds, this hitch is designed to haul E-Bikes, cargo trays, camping gear, or other adventure essentials without breaking a sweat. Engineered for seamless compatibility, it lets you use all your existing hitch accessories without the need for extra adapters that cause rattling, noise, or instability—giving you a smooth, quiet, and secure driving experience every time.
Built to outlast and outperform, EcoHitch is the ultimate hitch solution for Subaru Forester owners.
How to Install an EcoHitch on a 2018 Subaru Forester: Step-by-Step Guide
2014-2018 Subaru Forester Hidden EcoHitch® Trailer Hitch Installation-Torklift Central
Trailer Hitch Part Numbers:x7216 (2”), x7217 (1¼-inch)
Hitch receiver type: Hidden
Receiver size: 2”, 1¼”
Weight Rating: 3,500 pounds towing, 525 pounds tongue weight at the trailer ball ***
This kit ships complete. Kit includes bolt/accessory kits
More Accessories:
- SKU
- XV1SUBFOR02
Shipping Info
All Torklift products ship in 5 business days or less.
If you order multiple products, they may ship from different warehouses in separate shipments
Don't see your EcoHitch® listed? Click here!
Applications Include:
- 2014 Subaru Forester trailer hitch
- 2015 Subaru Forester trailer hitch
- 2016 Subaru Forester trailer hitch
- 2017 Subaru Forester trailer hitch
- 2018 Subaru Forester trailer hitch
Key Features:
- Versatile Combo Rack and Tow Hitch: The EcoHitch allows you to tow or use a bike rack without needing any additional accessories. Some other hitches require separate adapters for towing, the EcoHitch is designed to do it all, providing seamless integration for all your towing and bike rack needs.
- Completely Concealed Hidden Design: Only the receiver is visible, maintaining your Forester’s sleek appearance.
- E-Bike Rated: Planning your set up? Be sure to use our new Maximum Hitch Weight (Tongue Weight) Estimator to be certain you are not overloading your trailer hitch or your vehicle. EcoHitch features many hitch designs engineered to handle the extra weight of E-Bikes without requiring the use of additional straps. EcoHitch offers some of the highest tongue weight capacity available— for securely transporting bikes, cargo trays, additional gear, etc.
- Class 3 Compatible? – Check Your Setup: Most E-Bike rack manufacturers require a Class 3 hitch. Many EcoHitches feature designs similar to Class 3 performance standards, but not all hitch offerings support every one of the Class 3 standards. Whether you're using an EcoHitch or another hitch, maintain your confidence that your hitch combination can safely carry your E-Bike setup- use our Maximum Hitch Weight (Tongue Weight) Estimator to estimate your set up.
- Easy Installation: 100% bolt-on installation, no drilling required, meeting national SAE J684 towing safety standards.
- Impressive Towing Capacity: Rated for 525 pounds tongue weight at the trailer ball and 3,500 pounds towing weight.***
- Vehicle Compatibility: Does not interfere with auto-latching and unlatching hatches on vehicles that include this feature.
- Unmatched Ground Clearance: Every EcoHitch® is designed to be angled upward just enough to keep your hitch accessories level and avoid scraping.
- Aerodynamic Compatibility: Complements the aerodynamic contours of your Forester.
- Armor Pro Finish:Torklift’s exclusive premium finish, engineered to outperform traditional powder coat with a tougher barrier against rust, road salt, harsh weather, moisture, and everyday towing abuse. Armor Pro Finish is backed by 2,000+ hours of salt spray testing, up to 8x longer than standard powder coat finish.
- Eco-Friendly: Made with 100% recycled and recyclable materials.
- Lightweight: No added bulk to your vehicle.
- Free Shipping: Available for the lower 48 states.
- Made in the U.S.A.: Proudly American-made.
- Legendary Lifetime Warranty: Rest assured with our unwavering commitment to quality.
Simple Installation
Designed for simplicity, our hitch offers a 100 percent bolt-on installation that won’t disrupt your vehicle’s aerodynamics or require roof-mounted cargo.
EcoHitch® Trailer Hitch Strength
Coated in high-impact powder coat with a Chasm Black finish, our hitches are meticulously sandblasted for maximum durability. Made from a combination of up to aerospace-grade aluminum, stainless steel, and steel.
American-Made with a REAL Warranty
Proudly Made in America, our Forester hitch is backed by our Legendary Lifetime Warranty. Our knowledgeable team is ready to assist you with installation and support.
*WARNING* Your vehicle may have a lower tow rating than this trailer hitch. If your vehicle's tow rating is less than the rated towing capacity on your Torklift Central trailer hitch, your trailer hitch capacity is limited to your vehicle's factory rated towing capacity.
***IMPORTANT NOTICE:
While EcoHitch®️ trailer hitches are built with high-strength materials and tested for exceptional weight ratings, your vehicle’s factory towing capacities are the ultimate limit. Always refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual to determine its maximum towing and tongue weight ratings. No aftermarket hitch or accessory can increase your vehicle’s factory-rated towing capacities.
Using hauling accessories like extensions, cargo trays, bike racks, or other accessories that extend the load out from the trailer hitch, will significantly reduce the tongue weight capacity of your hitch system.
To estimate how your setup will affect tongue weight, we recommend using our Maximum Hitch Weight (Tongue Weight) Estimator before hauling your payload (cargo trays, bike racks, etc).
Disclaimer:It is the user’s responsibility to ensure safe towing practices and to confirm that all loads fall within the limits of the lowest-rated component in the towing system. Torklift is not liable for any damage or injury resulting from the misuse or overloading of towing/hauling equipment.
Additional Online Part Numbers: ECHX7216 Meyer ECHX7217 Meyer
*Depending on the application, the product can include a combination of up to three qualified materials
What receiver sizes are available for the 2014-2018 Subaru Forester EcoHitch?
The EcoHitch for the 2014-2018 Subaru Forester is available in both 2" and 1¼" receiver sizes to accommodate your towing and hauling needs. Offering dual receiver options allows you to select the configuration that best matches your hitch-mounted accessories and intended trailer hitch application.
What is the weight capacity of this trailer hitch?
The EcoHitch® towing capacity for the 2014-2018 Subaru Forester is rated for 3,500 pounds towing capacity and 525 pounds tongue weight at the trailer ball. Use our Maximum Hitch Weight (Tongue Weight) Estimator to verify allowable load and ensure you are within safe limits.
Is the EcoHitch hidden or visible when installed?
The EcoHitch for the 2014-2018 Subaru Forester features a completely concealed design with only the receiver visible, maintaining your Forester's sleek appearance while providing superior ground clearance. The hidden cross tube remains positioned behind the rear bumper structure for a clean, integrated look.
Does installation require drilling into my vehicle?
No, the EcoHitch for the 2014-2018 Subaru Forester offers 100% bolt-on installation using factory mounting points with no drilling required, meeting national SAE J684 towing safety standards. This bolt-on configuration is engineered for precise fitment while complying with established towing safety criteria.
Can this hitch handle E-bikes?
Yes, the EcoHitch for the 2014-2018 Subaru Forester is E-bike rated with a 525-pound tongue weight capacity. Use our Maximum Hitch Weight (Tongue Weight) Estimator to verify allowable load and ensure you are within safe limits.
What makes this hitch different from "diaper hitches"?
Unlike bulky diaper hitches that hang low and scrape, the EcoHitch for the 2014-2018 Subaru Forester features a streamlined design with a 100% concealed cross tube and an upward-angled receiver for superior ground clearance. The upward angle helps keep racks level while reducing the risk of contact on steep driveways or uneven terrain.
Do I need adapters to use my existing hitch accessories?
No, the 2" receiver on the EcoHitch for the 2014-2018 Subaru Forester allows you to use all your existing hitch accessories without extra adapters, eliminating rattling, noise, and instability. The standard receiver opening supports common bike racks, cargo carriers, and light-duty towing equipment within rated limits.
What warranty comes with the EcoHitch?
The EcoHitch for the 2014-2018 Subaru Forester is backed by Torklift's Legendary Lifetime Warranty and is proudly made in the USA. This manufacturer-backed warranty underscores long-term durability and domestic production standards.
Can I install this at home, or do I need a certified mechanic?
You can install the EcoHitch for the 2014 - 2018 Subaru Forester at home because it is a bolt-on installation using standard hand tools, though professional installation support is available if you prefer that option. If you prefer for installation to be done by a professional installer, we have a large network of certified installers across the country. Visit our Certified Dealer Locator here.
Customer Reviews
All of that was minor, but my main gripe was that their installation video and manual showed a base forester. The XT with the dual exhaust is much more difficult. I tried for hours to get that hitch in there without removing the mufflers and I couldn't do it. I ended up scratching up the hitch on top truing to shove it between the muffler and sheet metal. Also, they don't mention that the hitch crossbar tube MUST be above the seam around the spare tire well. I got the thing all the wat above the mufflers just to find this out and I had to take it back out. Mind you, I somehow managed to install this thing by myself. If you're not strong, you'll need help to hoist it into position.
All in all, very nice product. Hitch says stainless on it, but I am assuming that is for the receiver only. Definitely recommended BUT take off the mufflers for your XT and get a friend to help you set it into position. Then it will be smooth sailing.
Having owned a few different motorhomes, Truck Campers & other toys Torklift products are top of the line.
The enclosed directions left no unanswered questions. All steps were clearly laid out. This hitch is of high quality and has a precision fit. Nice & tight and looks great with no loss of ground clearance.