Introducing the 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid

Last year, Subaru followed up the launch of its redesigned Forester with the Forester Hybrid. Because the hybrid drivetrain was built around a version of the 2.5-liter boxer-4 that the brand uses throughout much of its lineup, it was expected that the hybrid drivetrain would soon appear in other models. It finally has, as a hybrid version of Subaru’s best-selling model, the Crosstrek. Ewing Subaru of Plano shares information about the Crosstrek Hybrid and what some of its initial reviewers had to say.

You won’t be loudly announcing to everyone that you’re driving a hybrid with this car. It features its own wheel and fog light designs, as well as a few subtle hybrid badges, but otherwise resembles a regular Crosstrek. Under the hood, bright orange ductwork holding high-voltage wiring is the biggest clue that it’s a hybrid.

The engine is paired with two electric motors: a small starter/generator and a larger 118-hp traction motor that powers the car in EV-only mode and assists with acceleration and other power needs, while also helping charge the 1.1-kWh battery through regenerative braking. The combined output is 194 horsepower, offering a 14-hp increase over the gas-only model. However, it feels more due to the motor’s instant torque. “From the moment you put it in drive, the Crosstrek Hybrid feels quicker than the standard gas model,” says U.S. News & World Report.

Subaru and Toyota have collaborated on some models, and while Subaru undoubtedly benefited from Toyota’s hybrid expertise and possibly some components, this is not a Toyota hybrid system. This is partly because Subaru has spent years perfecting its Symmetrical all-wheel-drive system and ensured that the hybrid system wouldn’t interfere with it. Therefore, unlike the Toyota Corolla Cross and many other AWD hybrids, which use a second motor to power the rear wheels, the Crosstrek hybrid, like its Forester hybrid sibling, retains the full mechanical AWD system.

Also preserved is the gas model’s generous 8.7-inch ground clearance; therefore, the Crosstrek hybrid continues to perform well off-road like its gas-only counterparts. “Off pavement, it negotiated trails at speeds I wouldn’t dare in other small crossovers.” says The Drive.com.

You expect better fuel economy, and the Crosstrek delivers, though it’s slightly limited by the mechanical AWD system. The EPA shows 36 mpg for both city and highway, which by definition means 36 combined as well. That’s 10 mpg better in the city and three mpg better on the highway than the non-electrified Crosstrek.

The interior remains unchanged except that the hybrid’s standard digital instrument cluster and the hybrid battery replaces the spare tire, which is replaced with a repair kit. Passenger and cargo space are unchanged. The equipment level is also relatively high. A base price of $33,995 for the Sport trim is higher than rivals like the Corolla Cross. However, the Crosstrek hybrid offers more features, including a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, a wireless phone charger, a sunroof, and a digital driver’s instrument cluster. An additional fee for the Limited model adds a heated steering wheel, 360-degree camera view, StarTex seating surfaces, and a 10-speaker, 432-watt Harman Kardon premium audio system.

Yes, the hybrid costs more than the gas-only Crosstrek, but you’re getting updated technology that is faster, quieter, and more efficient, with virtually no downsides. It should be in Ewing Subaru of Plano’s extensive inventory by the time you read this. If you’re not a Crosstrek owner yet, this is the one you’ve been waiting for.