Best Seller
Subaru came to market with the Crosstrek just over ten years ago, and the Impreza-based crossover was an instant hit. Last year, the Crosstrek received a complete makeover as it moved into its third generation, and the updates were clearly well received as the compact SUV is now the brand’s bestselling model. This sales trend is likely to continue as Subaru adds improved performance and efficiency to the lineup with the all-new Crosstrek Hybrid.
Not the First Crosstrek Hybrid
There were a few earlier examples of Crosstrek Hybrids, but none were built in high volume. Just one year after the Crosstrek came to market, the 2014 version was offered with a hybrid powertrain, but the added weight of the batteries canceled out any additional performance from the electric motor, and it didn’t provide much improvement in performance or fuel economy. In 2019, a limited-availability plug-in hybrid Crosstrek was added to the lineup, but with its 17 miles of electric range and low power output, it did not sell in large numbers. This new Crosstrek Hybrid improves on both earlier variants and could easily become the most popular powertrain for this compact crossover.
New Hybrid System
Subaru has an ongoing partnership with Toyota, sharing vehicle platforms for the Solterra/BZ4X and BRZ/GT86. However, while Subaru does use some Toyota components in its hybrid system, it is quite different from what Toyota uses. The Subaru hybrid system consists of two electric motors incorporated into the continuously variable transmission (CVT) and a 1.1 kWh lithium-ion battery. One motor operates as a generator, charging the battery and providing engine start/stop functionality, while the other provides drive power and regenerative braking.
More Power
Teamed with the electric motors is a newly-developed Atkinson/Miller-cycle 2.5-liter boxer (horizontally opposed) 4-cylinder engine. The combined output is 194 horsepower, which makes the hybrid variant the most powerful in the Crosstrek lineup. The EPA hasn’t released fuel economy figures for the new Crosstrek Hybrid; however, the non-hybrid is rated at 27 mpg city / 33 mpg hwy / 29 mpg combined, so expect an improvement from these figures.
Standard All-Wheel Drive
With all hybrid power (gas and electric) going through the transmission, the Crosstrek retains its signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system with front and rear axles connected mechanically. The Crosstrek has impressive off-road capability, coming standard with 8.7 inches of ground clearance and X-MODE with hill-descent control.
Styling Changes
For good or bad, the Crosstrek Hybrid doesn’t stand out from its non-electrified sibling. Aside from the “hybrid” badging on the doors and rear hatch, the only differentiators are the color and wheels. The Crosstrek Hybrid features two new exclusive colors: Sand Dune Pearl (pictured here) and Citron Yellow Pearl. Also unique to the hybrid are the 18-inch dark gray alloy wheels.
Inner Space
The 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid features a high-tech cabin with an available 11.6-inch central display and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. The gauge cluster features a power flow graphic unique to the hybrid. The vertical infotainment display is clear and easy to read, and while most features are integrated into the screen, the physical controls for volume, tuning, and cabin temperature settings are quite welcome. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard with a wireless connection.
Comfortable Seating
When the updated Crosstrek arrived last year, it featured front seats redesigned to provide improved support while reducing driver fatigue. The seats are stylish and comfortable, with good space for front and rear seat passengers.
Cargo Space
One of the issues with the earlier Crosstrek Hybrid was the reduced cargo space – this is no longer an issue with the new Crosstrek Hybrid. While the load floor is slightly raised, it is barely noticeable, and there’s still plenty of space for luggage or other gear.
Advanced Safety
Like its non-hybrid sibling, the Crosstrek Hybrid comes standard with the latest version of EyeSight, Subaru’s innovative advanced driver assist system. Along with the expected automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control, the EyeSight system is available with reverse automatic braking, reverse cross-traffic alert, and blind spot detection.
Coming this Fall
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek is expected to arrive in showrooms this fall. Expect pricing and more detailed specs to be released closer to the on-sale date.
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