The Subaru Crosstrek arrives from the factory with a useful 8.7 inches of ground clearance - enough for most gravel roads and mild trails - but dedicated off-road enthusiasts and overlanders inevitably want more. A quality lift kit adds 1-2 inches of clearance, allowing fitment of slightly larger tires and improving approach angles on rocky terrain, all while maintaining the Crosstrek’s core daily-driver manners. In 2026, the aftermarket has matured with several well-engineered options. Here are the five best.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Price (USD) | Lift Amount | Best For | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primitive Racing Subaru Crosstrek Lift Kit | ~$280 | 1.5 in | Balanced daily drive + trail use | ★★★★★ |
| Baja Designs Crosstrek Suspension Kit | ~$350 | 1-2 in | Performance off-road focus | ★★★★☆ |
| Rally Armor Strut Spacers | ~$150 | 1 in | Budget bolt-on leveling lift | ★★★★☆ |
| Eibach Pro-Lift-Kit Subaru Crosstrek | ~$220 | 1.2 in | Spring-based lift for better ride quality | ★★★★★ |
| SPC Performance Crosstrek Alignment Kit | ~$180 | N/A (alignment correction) | Post-lift alignment correction | ★★★★★ |
1. Primitive Racing Subaru Crosstrek Lift Kit
Primitive Racing is a Subaru-specialist brand with a strong reputation in the rallycross and overland communities. Their Crosstrek lift kit uses CNC-machined aluminum strut spacers to deliver a clean 1.5 inches of lift without modifying the OEM struts. The hardware is high-grade and the instructions are detailed - most owners with basic mechanical skills complete the install in 2-3 hours per axle. Primitive Racing’s kits are specifically fitment-tested on the Crosstrek platform rather than adapted from generic spacers, which means the clearances are correct and the installation is repeatable. For owners who want the confidence of a Subaru-specific manufacturer’s kit, Primitive Racing is the benchmark choice.
2. Baja Designs Crosstrek Suspension Kit
Baja Designs is known primarily for their lighting systems, but their Crosstrek suspension kit brings the same performance focus to the suspension category. The kit includes revised spring rates and damper tuning that improve both on-trail composure and on-road handling relative to the factory setup - a benefit that generic strut spacer kits cannot claim. The spring-and-damper combination provides 1-2 inches of lift depending on configuration, and the handling character remains predictable and confidence-inspiring. For Crosstrek owners who prioritize trail performance and want to feel an improvement in dynamic handling alongside the added height, Baja Designs delivers a more complete suspension upgrade.
3. Rally Armor Strut Spacers
Rally Armor makes reliable Subaru accessories, and their Crosstrek strut spacers offer the most accessible entry point to added clearance. The 1-inch aluminum spacers are straightforward to install, require no spring or damper changes, and are priced low enough that most owners can absorb the cost without deliberation. The spacers are billet-machined from quality aluminum and don’t introduce harshness or binding when properly installed. For owners who want a modest level of additional clearance - enough to run 215/65R17 tires instead of the stock fitment - without investing in a full suspension upgrade, Rally Armor spacers are a sensible and reversible modification.
4. Eibach Pro-Lift-Kit
Eibach’s Pro-Lift-Kit takes a spring-based approach to Crosstrek lifting rather than using strut spacers. Stiffer progressive-rate springs raise the vehicle approximately 1.2 inches while simultaneously improving load-bearing capacity - useful for owners who camp and carry gear. Unlike strut spacers that work the OEM dampers through a modified range, the Eibach springs are engineered as a system intended to work with the OEM dampers’ designed stroke, which preserves more of the factory ride quality feel. The result is a ride that many owners describe as tighter and more controlled than the stock setup while providing meaningful additional ground clearance.
5. SPC Performance Alignment Kit
The SPC Performance alignment correction kit is not a lift kit itself - it’s an essential companion to any of the above options. When a Crosstrek is lifted, factory camber and caster specs shift outside of the alignment rack’s adjustment range, leading to uneven tire wear and degraded handling. SPC’s adjustable upper control arm bolts allow the alignment technician to restore factory angles (or dial in mild negative camber for improved handling). Running a lift kit without correcting the alignment is a false economy that will eat through tires prematurely. For any Crosstrek owner installing a lift of 1 inch or more, SPC’s alignment kit is a required companion purchase.
What to Look For
Spacer vs. spring lift: Spacer kits are cheaper and reversible but don’t change spring rate. Spring-based kits (Eibach) improve handling characteristics alongside height but cost more and require matching damper consideration.
Aluminum vs. polyurethane spacers: Machined aluminum spacers are stiffer and more durable. Polyurethane spacers can compress slightly under load, affecting the actual lift height. For Subaru applications, aluminum is preferred.
Tire clearance: A 1.5-inch lift typically allows 215/65R17 or 225/60R17 without rubbing. Verify by searching Crosstrek fitment forums for your specific model year - clearances differ between 2019-2023 and 2024+ models.
Alignment: Budget $80-$120 for a post-install alignment at a shop with proper Subaru specs. Consider adding SPC hardware if your alignment tech reports they cannot bring camber within spec.
Bump stops: Some lift kits include extended bump stops to prevent overextension of the suspension at full drop. Verify your kit includes appropriate bump stop extensions or purchase separately.
Final Thoughts
Primitive Racing offers the most Subaru-focused, confidence-inspiring lift for most Crosstrek owners. The Eibach Pro-Lift-Kit is the best spring-based alternative for owners who want improved ride quality alongside height. Rally Armor strut spacers are the right entry-level choice for budget-conscious owners wanting minimal lift. Whatever kit you choose, pair it with the SPC alignment correction and a fresh alignment to protect your tires and preserve the Crosstrek’s handling balance well into 2026.
Frequently asked questions
How much lift can a Subaru Crosstrek safely handle?+
Most Crosstrek owners safely run 1-2 inches of lift using quality strut spacers or spring upgrades without adversely affecting steering geometry or CV axle angles. Beyond 2 inches, alignment corrections and potentially extended brake lines become necessary, and ride quality trade-offs increase significantly.
Do I need an alignment after installing a Crosstrek lift kit?+
Yes, an alignment is strongly recommended after any suspension height change, even with leveling spacers. Even a 1-inch lift shifts the caster and camber settings from factory spec. SPC Performance upper control arms with adjustment can help restore factory alignment angles and are often paired with lift kits for best results.
Will a lift kit void my Subaru Crosstrek warranty?+
Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a dealer must prove that the modification caused a specific failure to deny warranty coverage. A quality strut spacer that doesn't contact other components is unlikely to void your powertrain warranty, but any suspension components may be considered out of warranty after modification. Check with your dealer before installing.