Home > News & Blogs > 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid Review: Better Fuel Economy, But Practical Trade-Offs
2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid Review: Better Fuel Economy, But Practical Trade-Offs
Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid Review: Compelling AWD PHEV With Notable Compromises
Key Takeaways: The Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid combines standard all-wheel drive with plug-in hybrid efficiency, but comes with significant trade-offs including reduced cargo space and a premium price tag. Ideal for buyers prioritizing AWD capability in a fuel-efficient package, though conventional hybrids or EVs may better suit many drivers.
Introduction: Subaru's Unique Plug-In Hybrid Proposition
The automotive landscape has seen an explosion of hybrid and electric vehicles, but few combine all-wheel drive with plug-in hybrid technology at the Crosstrek Hybrid's price point. As Subaru's sole plug-in hybrid offering, the Crosstrek Hybrid occupies a distinctive niche, blending the brand's trademark AWD capability with partial electrification.
MotorVero's extensive evaluation reveals this PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) makes sense for a specific subset of buyers: those who require all-weather traction, have short commutes (under 20 miles), and can regularly charge the vehicle. For others, the conventional Crosstrek or competing hybrids may prove more practical.
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Powertrain and Performance: Electric Boost for Subaru's Boxer Engine
At its core, the Crosstrek Hybrid utilizes Subaru's StarDrive system, combining several innovative components:
- 2.0-liter flat-four boxer engine (137 hp, 134 lb-ft torque)
- Dual electric motor-generators (combined 148 system horsepower)
- 8.8 kWh lithium-ion battery (17-21 mile EV range)
- Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with enhanced programming
- Standard symmetrical all-wheel drive
Performance Highlights
Acceleration: The electric motors reduce 0-60 mph times by approximately 1 second compared to the gas-only Crosstrek, despite the hybrid's 600-pound weight penalty. This makes it the quickest Crosstrek variant available.
Driving Modes: Unlike some competitors, the Crosstrek Hybrid lacks a dedicated EV-only mode. However, it intelligently prioritizes electric power when possible and offers charge-sustaining options for highway driving.
Regenerative Braking: The system provides smooth deceleration without the artificial pedal feel common in many hybrids.
Real-World Electric Range and Efficiency
Subaru's claimed 17-mile EV range proves conservative in practice. During MotorVero testing, we achieved:
- 21.4 miles of electric-only range in moderate temperatures
- 18-19 miles with climate control active
- 35 mpg combined after battery depletion (36.9 mpg observed)
This compares favorably to the gas-only Crosstrek's 27/33/25 mpg (city/highway/combined) ratings. However, the hybrid's smaller fuel tank (13.2 gal vs 16.6 gal) means total range remains nearly identical at about 480 miles.
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Design and Practicality: Familiar Looks With Functional Trade-Offs
Externally, the Crosstrek Hybrid maintains the standard model's rugged aesthetic with minimal changes:
- Dual fuel doors (gasoline and charging port)
- Subtle hybrid badging
- Unique wheel designs
Charging Considerations
The rear-quarter panel charging port location presents usability challenges:
- Requires parking creatively at public charging stations
- Home garage charging may need cord extensions
- 120V charging takes ~5 hours (full recharge)
- 240V Level 2 charging reduces this to ~2 hours
Interior Space and Cargo Compromises
While passenger space remains unchanged, the battery pack significantly impacts cargo capacity:
| Metric | Crosstrek Hybrid | Standard Crosstrek | Reduction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Behind rear seats | 15.9 cu ft | 20.8 cu ft | 23.6% less |
| Max cargo volume | 43.1 cu ft | 55.3 cu ft | 22.1% less |
| Cargo floor height | Higher position | Lower position | Less versatile |
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Competitive Landscape: How the Crosstrek Hybrid Stacks Up
The plug-in hybrid SUV segment offers several alternatives, each with distinct advantages:
| Model | Starting Price | EV Range | AWD Available | Cargo Space |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid | $35,970 | 17 miles | Standard | 15.9 cu ft |
| Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV | $36,890 | 22 miles | Standard | 30.4 cu ft |
| Kia Niro PHEV | $29,495 | 26 miles | No | 19.4 cu ft |
| Hyundai Ioniq PHEV | $26,270 | 29 miles | No | 23.8 cu ft |
Unique Selling Points
The Crosstrek Hybrid's value proposition centers on three key attributes:
- Standard AWD: Unmatched in its price segment for PHEVs
- Subaru's Safety Tech: Includes EyeSight driver assistance suite
- Ground Clearance: 8.7 inches for light off-road capability
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Pricing and Value Analysis: Calculating the Hybrid Premium
The Crosstrek Hybrid commands a significant price premium over its conventional counterpart:
- Base Price: $35,970 (including destination)
- Premium Over Base Crosstrek: +$13,100
- Premium Over Limited Trim: +$8,000
Fuel Savings Calculation: Assuming $3.50/gallon gas and 12,000 annual miles, the Hybrid saves about $300/year over the standard Crosstrek. At this rate, it would take approximately 26 years to recoup the $8,000 premium through fuel savings alone.
Standard Features and Options
As the range-topping Crosstrek, the Hybrid includes numerous premium features:
- Leather-trimmed upholstery
- 8-inch Starlink infotainment system
- Power driver's seat
- LED steering responsive headlights
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
Notable options include a power moonroof, Harman Kardon audio system, and navigation, pushing fully-loaded models near $39,000.
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Safety and Driver Assistance: Subaru's EyeSight Suite
While NHTSA and IIHS haven't specifically tested the Hybrid variant, it inherits the standard Crosstrek's excellent safety ratings along with Subaru's comprehensive EyeSight system:
- Pre-collision braking with pedestrian detection
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane departure and sway warning
- Lane keep assist
- Blind spot detection with rear cross-traffic alert
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Ownership Considerations: Who Should Buy the Crosstrek Hybrid?
The Crosstrek Hybrid makes the most sense for buyers who:
- Require all-wheel drive for weather conditions
- Have regular access to charging (home/work)
- Maintain short daily commutes (<20 miles)
- Prioritize fuel efficiency over cargo space
- Value Subaru's safety reputation
For those without these specific needs, alternatives like the conventional Crosstrek, Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, or fully electric vehicles may offer better overall value
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Final Verdict: A Niche Vehicle With Clear Advantages
The Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid delivers on its promise of combining electric efficiency with all-weather capability, but does so with notable compromises. Its premium pricing, reduced cargo capacity, and modest EV range limit its appeal to a specific subset of buyers.
Strengths:
- Standard AWD in a PHEV package
- Improved acceleration over gas model
- Comprehensive standard safety features
- Subaru's proven reliability
Weaknesses:
- Significant price premium
- Substantially reduced cargo space
- Below-average EV range for class
- Inconvenient charging port location
For the right buyer—particularly those in cold climates with short commutes—the Crosstrek Hybrid offers a compelling combination of attributes. However, most shoppers will find better value in either the conventional Crosstrek or competing hybrid/electric vehicles with greater efficiency or practicality.
motorverorachael
Last Updated On May, 30-2025