What are the best off-road accessories for a Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness?

Question

Hey everyone! I finally pulled the trigger and picked up a brand new Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness in Geyser Blue, and I am absolutely loving it so far. While it’s already pretty capable out of the box with that 9.3-inch ground clearance and the Yokohama Geolandar tires, I’m planning on taking it out to some more technical trails and remote camping spots this summer. I really want to make sure I’m prepared before I get too far off the beaten path.

I’ve been looking into some underbody protection because, even though it comes with some factory shielding, I’m worried about the oil pan and transmission when navigating rocky sections. I’m also debating between adding a set of ditch lights or upgrading the roof rack to something more robust for a rooftop tent, especially since the Wilderness trim has that improved static load capacity. I want to keep the build functional without killing my MPG or adding too much wind noise on the highway.

For those of you who have been adventuring in your Wilderness, what have been your absolute must-have accessories? Are there specific brands that you’ve found fit the updated body lines better, or any essential recovery gear you recommend that fits well in the smaller trunk space? I'd love to hear your top recommendations for making this the ultimate trail-ready setup!

xninjnsntl · Accepted Answer

> I’m planning on taking it out to some more technical trails... I’m also debating between adding a set of ditch lights or upgrading the roof rack.

Yo, congrats on the Geyser Blue! Seriously such a vibe. I've been driving Subarus for like 10 years now, but honestly, I'm still kinda new to the specific Wilderness quirks myself, so I've been taking things reallyyy slow. I mean, you definitely gotta protect that underbelly first. Those factory plates are okay for gravel, but if you're hitting rocks, I’d suggest the LP Aventure Main Skid Plate for 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness. I've got one and it's basically saved me from some nasty "clunk" sounds lol.

For the rack, if you're worried about MPG (which is real, the Wilderness already drinks more gas), look at the Prinsu Roof Rack for 2024 Subaru Crosstrek. It fits the lines perfectly and doesn't whistle too much on the highway. Also, don't forget recovery gear! Since the trunk is tiny, I keep Maxtrax MKII Recovery Boards mounted on the rack to save space. Just be careful with the extra weight up top, it can get a bit tippy. Gl! 👍

wxjehxoxlf · Answer

Quick question - can u clarify what kinda "technical" trails ur talking about? Boulders or just chunky fire roads? tbh, armor is way cheaper than a new CVT... ive seen too many people regret skipping it.

• Rival 4x4 Aluminum Engine Skid Plate is a solid $280 investment.
• Try Nilight 2PCS 18W LED Pods for a budget-friendly $25 ditch light setup.

wanna make sure ur priorities match the terrain! gl

yzluyxqvsm · Answer

Check out the specs on Primitive Racing's site for the Primitive Racing Mid-Armor Transmission Skid Plate. Honestly, the 3/16-inch 5052 aluminum is basically essential for CVT protection without the heavy steel weight. gl!