Subaru of America announced its first-ever plug-in hybrid vehicle, the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid. The new Crosstrek Hybrid maintains all the capability of the traditional Subaru Crosstrek with increased fuel efficiency.
The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid uniquely integrates the Toyota Hybrid System (THS) with Subaru’s four-cylinder direct-injection BOXER engine, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and an all-new transmission. The Crosstrek Hybrid combines the wide-ranging off-road capability of the gas-powered Crosstrek with hybrid efficiency.
It can be driven as a normal Hybrid, using both gas and electric power and eliminating range anxiety, or driven on pure electric drive for local commuting.
The Crosstrek Hybrid is an advanced, eco-friendly version of the versatile compact SUV that has become the brand’s third best-selling model in America.
Arriving at Subaru retailers near the end of this year, the 2019 Crosstrek Hybrid will also feature unique styling, calling out its distinct abilities. Like the gas-powered Crosstrek models, the 2019 Crosstrek Hybrid is built around the Subaru Global Platform that was designed to accommodate hybrid and electric powertrains.
Subaru has been conservative about electrifying its lineup. It did introduce a conventional hybrid version of the Crosstrek for the 2014 model year, but it’s not expected to launch its first all-electric cars until 2021. The 2019 Crosstrek Hybrid is a first step in that direction.
The closest competition will be the Kia Niro PHEV, which has a claimed range of 26 miles. Another potential competitor is the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, which provides 22 miles of electric-only range.
