Funny you should mention that, we have a 2017 Crosstrek with 5 speed manual and had to go to Subaru USA to get clearance from them for flat towing. The local dealership sold us the car with flat towing recommended and the dealership mechanics tell us there is no difference in the manual drive trains between the two model years (2016-2017). We have a letter memo (hard copy in a safe for future reference) from Subaru that outlines the procedure for flat towing and they are aware of our use of this 2017 model year Crosstrek vehicle. The process was somewhat like getting special dispensation from a judge to drive to work when your license has been revoked or suspended for some reason. Caveat emptor!
