The Subaru Crosstrek is basically a lifted Impreza with standard AWD — a formula that makes it wildly popular for active lifestyles in places with real weather. With 8.7 inches of ground clearance and Subaru’s symmetrical AWD, it handles light trails and snowy roads far better than most compact crossovers. The right tires unlock that capability even further.
Crosstrek Tire Sizes by Generation
| Generation | Years | Tire Sizes |
|---|---|---|
| 3rd Gen (GU) | 2024–2025 | 225/60R17 (Base, Premium, Sport) · 225/55R18 (Limited, Hybrid) · 5×114.3 bolt pattern |
| 2nd Gen (GT/GU) | 2018–2023 | 225/60R17 (Base, Premium, Sport) · 225/55R18 (Limited, Hybrid) · 5×100 bolt pattern (2018-2023) |
| 1st Gen (GP) | 2013–2017 | 225/55R17 (all trims) · 5×100 bolt pattern |
Critical note: the 2024+ Crosstrek switched from a 5×100 to a 5×114.3mm bolt pattern. Wheels from 2018-2023 Crosstreks will NOT fit 2024+ models, and vice versa. If you’re buying a separate winter wheel set, verify the bolt pattern matches your specific year.
Top Tires for the Crosstrek
1. Michelin CrossClimate 2
The ideal tire for Crosstrek owners in four-season climates. The CrossClimate 2 carries the 3PMSF snowflake certification, meaning it meets severe winter traction standards — paired with the Crosstrek’s AWD, this combination handles real snow with confidence. In dry and wet conditions, it performs like a premium touring tire. The 60,000-mile warranty is competitive for an all-weather tire, and road noise stays low at highway speeds.
Available in: 225/60R17, 225/55R18
3PMSF rated: Yes
Warranty: 60,000 miles
Price range: $160–$195 per tire
2. Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail
The go-to for Crosstrek owners who hit forest roads, gravel, and moderate trails. This crossover-specific all-terrain is lighter and quieter than truck A/T tires, so it doesn’t ruin the Crosstrek’s efficient highway manners. The 3PMSF rating handles winter, and the 65,000-mile warranty outlasts most A/T tires. Crosstrek forum owners consistently praise the A/T Trail as the best upgrade for anyone who actually uses their car’s ground clearance.
Available in: 225/60R17, 225/55R18
3PMSF rated: Yes
Warranty: 65,000 miles
Price range: $140–$175 per tire
3. Continental CrossContact LX25
The best pure touring tire for Crosstrek owners who stay on pavement. Maximum ride comfort, minimal road noise, and a 70,000-mile warranty that’s hard to beat. Wet traction is excellent — Continental’s compound maintains grip even on standing water. If you don’t need off-road capability and want the quietest, most comfortable ride possible, the LX25 is the pick.
Available in: 225/60R17, 225/55R18
UTQG: 740 A A
Warranty: 70,000 miles
Price range: $150–$185 per tire
4. Yokohama Geolandar CV G058
Yokohama supplies OEM tires for many Subaru models, and the Geolandar CV is their crossover touring tire designed to replace those OEM tires. It’s a solid middle-ground option — more capable in light off-road conditions than a pure touring tire, but quieter than a true all-terrain. The price is typically 15-20% less than the Michelin, making it a good value pick.
Available in: 225/60R17, 225/55R18
UTQG: 740 A A
Warranty: 65,000 miles
Price range: $135–$165 per tire
Upsizing Tires on the Crosstrek
One of the most popular Crosstrek modifications is fitting slightly larger tires for more ground clearance and a more aggressive look. On 17-inch wheels, 225/65R17 fits without any rubbing on stock suspension — this adds about 0.5 inches of overall diameter and a slightly taller sidewall for better off-road cushioning. Going larger than this (like 235/65R17) typically requires trimming or a small lift.
For Crosstrek Limited owners with 18-inch wheels who want more sidewall protection, dropping down to a 17-inch wheel with 225/60R17 or 225/65R17 tires is a common and practical modification — especially for winter setups.
Subaru AWD Tire Matching Rules
Same rules as the Outback and Forester: all four tires must match in brand, model, and size with circumference variation under 1/4 inch. Replace all four simultaneously. The Crosstrek’s symmetrical AWD system is not forgiving of tire mismatch — running even slightly different tread depths front-to-rear can strain the center differential. Rotate every 5,000-7,500 miles to maintain even wear.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tires come on the Subaru Crosstrek?
Base, Premium, and Sport trims come with 225/60R17 all-season tires (typically Yokohama or Bridgestone). Limited and Hybrid trims get 225/55R18. No Crosstrek trim comes with all-terrain tires from the factory, unlike the Outback Wilderness.
Should I get all-terrain tires for my Crosstrek?
If you frequently drive on unpaved roads or in snow, a crossover-specific A/T like the Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail is an excellent upgrade. For primarily paved driving, an all-weather tire like the Michelin CrossClimate 2 gives you winter capability without the noise and MPG penalty of an A/T tire.
Can I put 2023 Crosstrek wheels on a 2024?
No. The 2024+ Crosstrek uses a 5×114.3mm bolt pattern, while 2018-2023 models use 5x100mm. The wheels are physically incompatible. However, the 2024+ shares its bolt pattern with the CR-V, RAV4, and many other Honda/Toyota vehicles, making aftermarket wheel options plentiful.
How long do Crosstrek tires last?
OEM tires typically last 35,000-45,000 miles. The Crosstrek is lighter than the Outback and Forester, so tire wear is slightly less aggressive. Touring tires with high treadwear ratings (like the Continental LX25 at 70,000 miles) can significantly extend replacement intervals with proper rotation.
