Top 5: Best 2-Inch Lift Kits for Subaru Crosstrek

Lifting your Crosstrek is about more than just adding spacers; it’s the first step in transforming your vehicle into a purpose-built machine. To do it right, you need to think beyond the kit itself. What about tires and wheels? How does a lift affect your alignment and long-term maintenance? This guide covers the complete picture. We’ll explore the essential supporting mods and considerations that turn a good lift into a great one. By understanding how all the pieces work together, you can build a reliable, capable rig that’s ready for any trail. Let’s get into the details so you can choose the best 2 inch lift kit for Crosstrek with total confidence.

Key Takeaways

• A 2-inch lift offers the best of both worlds: You get a significant gain in off-road clearance and capability while preserving the comfortable handling you need for everyday driving.
• Invest in a well-engineered kit: Prioritize durable, corrosion-resistant materials and a bolt-on design to ensure a proper fit, maintain ride quality, and prevent future headaches.
• Factor in post-lift essentials: A professional wheel alignment is not optional—it's crucial for safety and preventing premature tire wear. Also, be prepared for a slight drop in fuel economy and changes in how your vehicle handles corners.

Why Lift Your Crosstrek 2 Inches?

If you’re looking to get more out of your Subaru Crosstrek, a lift kit is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make. While you can go higher, a 2-inch lift hits the sweet spot for most drivers. It gives you a serious improvement in off-road capability and a more commanding presence on the road, all without drastically changing the comfortable ride you love for daily driving. This modification is about transforming your vehicle from a capable crossover into a true adventure-ready machine.

Lifting your Crosstrek is about more than just looks—it’s about function. It opens up a new world of trails by giving you the clearance needed to handle rougher terrain. It also allows you to fit larger, more aggressive tires, which provide better traction and durability when you leave the pavement behind. Whether you're planning weekend camping trips or building a serious overlanding rig, a 2-inch lift provides the perfect foundation for your adventures. Let’s get into the specific benefits you can expect.

Get More Ground Clearance for the Trail

The single biggest reason to lift your Crosstrek is to increase its ground clearance. This is the space between the lowest point of your vehicle's undercarriage and the ground. When you’re on a rocky trail, every inch of clearance counts. A 2-inch lift gives you the height you need to drive over obstacles like rocks, ruts, and logs without scraping or damaging critical components underneath your car.

This added height is essential for anyone serious about taking their Crosstrek off-road. It not only protects your vehicle but also gives you the confidence to tackle more challenging terrain. More clearance is a key part of building capable overlanding solutions, as it lets you explore remote areas that would be inaccessible in a stock vehicle. It’s a straightforward upgrade that makes a massive difference in where you can go.

Improve Your Approach and Departure Angles

Beyond simple ground clearance, a lift kit also improves your Crosstrek’s approach and departure angles. Think of it this way: the approach angle determines how steep of an incline you can drive up without your front bumper hitting the slope, while the departure angle does the same for your rear bumper when you’re coming down. A higher lift means steeper angles, which is a huge advantage on the trail.

This is especially important when you’re navigating ditches, creek beds, or sudden, sharp inclines. A 2-inch lift can be the difference between clearing an obstacle smoothly and getting your bumper hung up. Many Crosstrek owners find that a lift kit is worth it for this reason alone, as it makes the vehicle far more capable in tough off-road conditions and deep snow.

Give Your Crosstrek a More Aggressive Stance

Let’s be honest—function is key, but style matters, too. A 2-inch lift completely transforms the look of your Crosstrek, giving it a tougher, more aggressive stance that perfectly matches its adventurous spirit. It gets rid of the stock, road-focused look and replaces it with one that says you’re ready for anything. This visual upgrade is one of the most satisfying parts of installing a lift kit.

A 2-inch lift is often recommended for daily drivers because it provides that rugged aesthetic without creating significant wear and tear on other components. You get the head-turning look you want without sacrificing the reliability and comfort you need for your commute. It’s the ideal balance of form and function, making your vehicle stand out in a parking lot and perform better on the trail. Check out some Crosstrek upgrades to see how a lift can complete your build.

Our Top 5 Picks for Crosstrek Lift Kits

Choosing the right lift kit can feel overwhelming, but I've narrowed it down to five of the best options on the market. Each one offers something a little different, whether you're looking for a budget-friendly upgrade or a full-on trail-ready setup. We've focused on kits that deliver reliable performance without completely changing the feel of your daily drive. Think of this as your starting point for finding the perfect lift to match your adventures and your budget. Let's get into the specifics of what makes each of these kits a solid choice for your Subaru Crosstrek.

Crawford Performance

Of course, we have to start with our own. The Crawford Performance 2-inch lift kit is engineered specifically for the 2018-2023 Crosstrek, and we designed it to be the perfect balance of off-road capability and on-road comfort. We know you don't want to sacrifice your daily driving experience just to get a little more clearance on the trail. This kit gives you the height you need to clear obstacles and fit larger tires while maintaining the handling characteristics you love about your Subaru. It’s a straightforward, high-quality upgrade that delivers exactly what it promises: performance you can count on.

ReadyLIFT

ReadyLIFT offers a popular kit that gives your Crosstrek a unique stance by lifting the front 2 inches and the rear 1.5 inches. This staggered lift, known as the ReadyLIFT 69-9820, levels out the factory rake, giving your vehicle a more aggressive and balanced look. It’s a great all-around option that provides a noticeable improvement in ground clearance for trail driving without making your Crosstrek feel out of place on the pavement. If you’re looking for a kit that enhances both the look and function of your vehicle, ReadyLIFT is a solid contender.

Primitive Racing

If you’re concerned about your Crosstrek sagging under the weight of camping gear or heavy cargo, Primitive Racing has a smart solution. Their kit combines springs and spacers to provide a lift that holds up when your vehicle is loaded down. This is a great choice for overlanders or anyone who frequently carries a lot of equipment. The Primitive Racing kit often includes important components like brake line extensions and subframe spacers, ensuring the geometry stays correct and the ride remains close to stock. It’s a well-thought-out package for practical, real-world use.

RalliTek

For those who want to take their off-roading to the next level, RalliTek offers a more aggressive 3-inch lift kit. This option is definitely geared toward serious trail enthusiasts who need maximum ground clearance. However, it’s important to know that a lift this high can cause accelerated wear on your CV axles. For that reason, RalliTek also recommends a 2-inch lift for most daily drivers. This gives you a significant capability upgrade while being much gentler on your vehicle’s components, striking a great balance for mixed-use driving.

Rough Country

Looking to lift your Crosstrek without emptying your wallet? The Rough Country 2-inch lift kit is easily the most budget-friendly option on this list. Coming in at around $250, it’s an accessible entry point into the world of lifted Subarus. Despite the low price, this kit is known for being easy to install and for maintaining a ride quality that’s very close to the factory feel. It’s an excellent choice if you want to test the waters, add a bit of clearance for light trails, and give your Crosstrek a more commanding presence on the road.

How Much Does a Crosstrek Lift Kit Cost?

Deciding to lift your Crosstrek is exciting, but it’s smart to have a clear budget in mind before you start shopping. The price of a lift kit can vary quite a bit, depending on the brand, the materials used, and how comprehensive the kit is. A basic spacer lift will naturally cost less than a kit that includes additional hardware like subframe spacers or custom-designed components to maintain factory alignment.

Generally, you can sort lift kits into three main price tiers. On the low end, you’ll find simple, budget-friendly options that get the job done. The mid-range is often the sweet spot, offering a great mix of quality engineering and value. For those who want the absolute best in performance and durability, premium kits provide top-of-the-line components. Understanding what you get for your money in each category will help you choose the perfect lift for your adventure rig without any surprises.

Entry-Level Kits (Under $300)

If you're looking to get a bit more clearance on a tight budget, an entry-level kit is a great place to start. These kits typically consist of strut spacers that are straightforward and effective. For example, you can find basic 2-inch lift kits for the Crosstrek that will give you the height you need to clear larger obstacles and fit bigger tires. While they may not include the advanced components of pricier options, they are a solid, cost-effective way to improve your vehicle’s off-road readiness and achieve that classic lifted look.

Mid-Range Kits ($300-$500)

This price range is where you’ll find the best balance of performance, quality, and cost. Mid-range kits often feature better materials and more thoughtful engineering to preserve your Crosstrek's ride quality and handling. Our Crawford Performance 2-inch Lift Kit is a perfect example, designed with aluminum spacers and subframe spacers to maintain factory alignment specs. Kits in this category, like those from Tuff Country, provide a significant upgrade in durability and design over entry-level options, making them a popular choice for enthusiasts who use their Crosstrek for daily driving and weekend adventures.

Premium Kits ($500+)

For the Crosstrek owner who demands the highest level of performance and won't settle for compromise, premium kits are the way to go. These kits are built with superior materials and often include additional components to correct suspension geometry and ensure long-term durability. The ReadyLift 2-inch Lift Kit, for instance, is known for its robust construction and comprehensive design. Investing in a premium kit means you’re getting top-tier engineering that provides maximum capability and reliability on the toughest trails, ensuring your lifted Crosstrek is ready for anything you throw at it.

What to Look For in a Quality Lift Kit

When you start shopping for a lift kit, you’ll quickly realize there are a ton of options out there. It can feel a little overwhelming, but knowing the key markers of quality will help you sort the great from the not-so-great. A well-engineered lift kit does more than just raise your Crosstrek; it maintains ride quality, ensures safety, and stands up to the elements for years to come. Investing a little time upfront to check for these features will save you from potential headaches, unexpected repair bills, and buyer's remorse down the road.

Think of it like buying any other critical component for your car. You wouldn't skimp on tires or brakes, and your suspension deserves the same attention. The right kit will feel like a natural extension of your vehicle, while a poorly designed one can lead to alignment issues, premature wear on other parts, and a rough ride. Let’s walk through the four main things you should always look for to make sure you’re getting a high-quality kit that’s built to last and perform exactly as you need it to.

Durable Materials and Construction

The foundation of any good lift kit is the quality of its materials. Since these components live underneath your car, they’re constantly exposed to water, mud, road salt, and whatever else the trail throws at them. Look for kits made from high-strength steel or billet aluminum with a durable powder-coated finish. This coating is your first line of defense against rust and corrosion, ensuring the parts don’t weaken over time. The same goes for the hardware—high-grade bolts and nuts are essential for keeping everything secure. Quality performance parts are designed to handle stress, so don’t settle for anything less when lifting your suspension.

A Straightforward Installation Process

A quality lift kit should be a "bolt-on" solution, meaning it’s designed to install using your Crosstrek’s factory mounting points without any cutting, drilling, or welding. This is a huge plus for a few reasons. First, it makes the installation much simpler, whether you’re tackling it yourself or paying a professional. A simpler install means fewer hours of labor and less chance of something going wrong. Second, it’s completely reversible. If you ever decide to sell your Crosstrek or return it to its stock height, you can do so without any permanent modifications. A well-designed kit will also come with clear, detailed instructions to guide you through the process.

Solid Warranty and Support

A manufacturer’s warranty tells you a lot about how much they stand behind their product. A solid warranty provides peace of mind that you’re covered if a part fails due to a manufacturing defect. Some premium kits even offer a powertrain warranty, which protects your investment by covering potential damage to your engine or transmission that could result from the lift. Beyond the warranty itself, check for good customer support. Having access to a knowledgeable team that can answer questions during installation or troubleshooting is incredibly valuable. It shows the company is committed to its customers long after the initial purchase.

Confirmed Vehicle Compatibility

This might sound obvious, but it’s critical: make sure the kit is engineered specifically for your Subaru Crosstrek’s model year. A one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work for suspension. A quality kit will account for your vehicle’s specific geometry and include features like camber and caster correction to maintain proper wheel alignment after the lift. This is essential for predictable handling, safe driving, and even tire wear. When a company offers specific Subaru Crosstrek upgrades, you know they’ve done the research and development to ensure a perfect fit and proper function, preventing issues like axle binding or poor ride quality.

Installing Your Lift Kit: What to Expect

So you’ve picked out the perfect lift kit for your Crosstrek. Awesome! Now comes the fun part: installation. Getting your vehicle lifted is a major upgrade, and it’s important to understand what the process involves. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer ready to get your hands dirty or you plan to hand the keys over to a professional, knowing the key steps will ensure everything goes smoothly. From the tools you’ll need to the crucial final alignment, here’s a breakdown of what to expect when you give your Crosstrek a lift.

Professional vs. DIY Installation

One of the first decisions you'll make is whether to install the lift kit yourself or hire a professional. If you’re comfortable working on your suspension and have the right tools, a DIY installation is definitely achievable. Most kits come with detailed instructions, and taking your time to follow them carefully is key.

However, if you’re not confident in your mechanical skills, there’s no shame in leaving it to the pros. A certified mechanic will get the job done correctly and safely, giving you peace of mind. In fact, most manufacturers recommend it. If you're looking for expert help, our team at Crawford Performance offers precision services to ensure your build is ready for any adventure.

Tools You'll Need for the Job

If you decide to tackle the installation yourself, you’ll need more than just a basic wrench set. A proper setup includes a floor jack, sturdy jack stands, a comprehensive metric socket and wrench set, a torque wrench for tightening bolts to spec, and likely a set of spring compressors. Some pry bars and a mallet might also come in handy for persuading stubborn parts.

Plan to set aside a solid afternoon for the job. Most 2-inch lift kits take around three to four hours to install, but that doesn’t include the time for a wheel alignment or mounting new tires. Always read the kit’s instructions beforehand to confirm the specific tools and time required so you’re fully prepared.

Why You Need a Post-Install Alignment

This step is non-negotiable. Installing a lift kit alters your Crosstrek’s suspension geometry, changing the camber, caster, and toe angles of your wheels. Driving without a proper alignment afterward will cause your tires to wear out unevenly and rapidly, which is a costly mistake.

More importantly, incorrect alignment can negatively affect your vehicle's handling and stability, making it feel unpredictable on the road. To protect your investment in both the lift kit and your tires, schedule a professional four-wheel alignment immediately after the installation is complete. It’s the final, critical step to ensuring your newly lifted Crosstrek drives straight, handles correctly, and is safe for the road and trail.

How a Lift Kit Changes Your Ride

Lifting your Crosstrek will change how it feels behind the wheel, and it’s important to be aware of that. With a higher center of gravity, your vehicle will have more body roll in corners. You’ll want to take it easy on sharp turns as you get used to the new handling characteristics to prevent any loss of control.

It’s not just about being cautious, though. You’ll also enjoy a more commanding view of the road and the confidence that comes with extra ground clearance. The ride might feel slightly firmer, but that’s part of what makes it so capable. Take some time to re-learn your vehicle’s limits before you head out on your first big trip with your new overlanding setup.

What Else to Consider Before You Lift

Lifting your Crosstrek is an exciting step toward building your ideal adventure rig, but the lift kit itself is just one piece of the puzzle. Changing your vehicle's suspension geometry affects other components, and it’s smart to think about the complete picture before you start turning wrenches. A little planning now can save you from headaches, unexpected costs, and performance issues later on. Considering these factors will help you build a capable and reliable Crosstrek that’s ready for whatever you throw at it, whether you're tackling a new trail or just want a more commanding presence on the road. It’s all about making informed choices to ensure your modifications work together seamlessly.

Necessary Supporting Mods

When you lift your Crosstrek, especially with kits over two inches, you’re changing the angles of many critical components. This can require additional modifications to keep everything running smoothly and safely. For more aggressive lifts, this might mean installing longer brake lines, extending steering components, or even dropping the subframe to correct the angle of your CV axles and prevent damage. While a standard 2-inch lift is typically more straightforward, it’s still a good idea to inspect these related parts. If you’re new to suspension work, having a professional handle the installation for a more complex lift is a wise investment in your vehicle’s longevity and your own peace of mind.

Choosing the Right Tires and Wheels

For many owners, a lift kit goes hand-in-hand with bigger, more aggressive tires. While this completes the rugged look, it’s important to choose your new setup carefully. A good rule of thumb is to keep your new tires within 10% of the original factory size. Going too large can put significant strain on your brakes, axles, and steering components, leading to premature wear. You’ll also want to consider wheel offset to avoid any rubbing against your fenders or suspension parts. It’s all about finding the right balance between off-road capability, on-road manners, and the overall health of your vehicle’s drivetrain.

Potential for Increased Wear and Tear

Altering your Crosstrek's factory suspension height will inevitably put more stress on certain parts. The constant velocity (CV) axles are a primary example. The steeper angle created by a lift kit can cause the CV joints to wear out faster than they would at a stock height, particularly with lifts of three inches or more. This doesn't mean you should avoid a lift; it just means you need to be aware of the trade-offs. Investing in high-quality performance parts and ensuring a proper, professional installation can go a long way in minimizing this accelerated wear and keeping your Crosstrek reliable for years to come.

Long-Term Maintenance Needs

Once your Crosstrek is lifted, your maintenance routine will need a little adjustment. Because of the increased stress on certain components, you should plan for more frequent inspections of your suspension, CV joints, bushings, and ball joints. Catching wear early can prevent a small issue from becoming a major repair. This is also where the quality of your lift kit really matters. A poorly designed or cheaply made kit can not only wear out parts faster but also make your vehicle feel unstable and unsafe, especially at higher speeds. Regular check-ups and a post-lift alignment are non-negotiable for long-term performance and safety.

Common Questions and Concerns

Lifting your Crosstrek is an exciting step, but it's smart to go in with your eyes open. It's a significant modification, and it's natural to have a few questions about how it will affect your vehicle day-to-day. Let's walk through some of the most common concerns so you can make your decision with confidence.

Will Lifting My Crosstrek Void My Warranty?

This is probably the number one question, and the answer isn't a simple yes or no. A dealer can't void your entire warranty just because you installed a lift kit. However, if a part fails and they can prove your lift kit caused the failure, they can deny the warranty claim for that specific repair. This is why quality matters. As some auto experts note, poorly planned or cheap suspension changes can affect how your vehicle drives. Choosing a well-engineered kit and ensuring it's installed correctly are the best ways to protect your vehicle and minimize any potential warranty issues.

How Will a Lift Affect Fuel Economy?

Let's be upfront: you'll likely see a small drop in your miles per gallon after installing a lift kit. Lifting your Crosstrek increases its frontal area, which creates more wind resistance. The bigger impact, however, usually comes from adding larger, heavier, all-terrain tires, which increase rolling resistance. As many owners have found, adding bigger tires with a lift can make your car use more gas. Think of it as a trade-off. You're exchanging a few MPG for a huge gain in off-road capability and that aggressive stance you're looking for. For most adventurers, it's a worthwhile compromise.

Are There Any Long-Term Reliability Issues?

You want your Crosstrek to be ready for adventure for years to come, so this is an important question. Altering your vehicle's suspension geometry can put additional stress on certain parts. Over time, you might see faster wear on components like CV joints, wheel bearings, and axles if the lift isn't designed properly. Some owners report that more extreme lifts—say, 3 inches or more—can cause CV axles to wear out much quicker. This is a key reason why a 2-inch lift is such a popular and balanced choice. A high-quality kit is specifically engineered to maintain correct suspension geometry, which drastically reduces the risk of premature wear on your drivetrain.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is a 2-inch lift so often recommended over a higher one? A 2-inch lift is the sweet spot because it gives you a major boost in off-road capability without asking you to make major compromises. You get the ground clearance you need for more serious trails and the space for larger tires, but you avoid the excessive strain on parts like your CV axles that can come with taller lifts. It’s the perfect balance for a vehicle that you rely on for both daily driving and weekend adventures.

Will lifting my Crosstrek ruin its comfortable ride on the highway? Not at all, as long as you choose a quality kit. Your Crosstrek will feel a bit different—you’ll notice a higher center of gravity, which can mean a little more body roll on sharp turns. However, a well-engineered 2-inch lift is designed to maintain a ride quality that’s very close to stock. It won’t feel harsh or unstable on your commute; it will just feel more commanding and ready for anything.

Do I have to get bigger tires as soon as I install the lift kit? You don't have to, which is great if you want to spread out the cost of your build. You can absolutely install the lift kit and continue to run your stock tires and wheels. The lift simply creates the necessary clearance for when you are ready to upgrade. Most people eventually move to a larger, more aggressive tire to get the full performance benefit and complete the rugged look.

What’s the difference between a spacer lift and a spring lift? A spacer lift is the most common type for a Crosstrek. It uses high-quality metal spacers that sit on top of your factory suspension struts to raise the vehicle. This method is effective, affordable, and maintains a ride quality very similar to stock. A spring lift replaces your factory springs with longer, and often stiffer, new ones. This can be a better choice if you plan on carrying a lot of heavy overlanding gear, as it helps prevent the rear of the vehicle from sagging under the weight.

How does a lift kit affect my Subaru EyeSight system? This is a fantastic question. Lifting your Crosstrek changes the height and angle of the forward-facing cameras that the EyeSight system relies on. A quality lift kit is designed to account for this, but it's still possible for the system's calibration to be affected. After your lift is installed, it's a very good idea to have a Subaru dealership check the EyeSight calibration to ensure all your safety features are working exactly as they should.