The most efficient Crosstrek ever? Subaru’s hybrid gets a bit rugged.

Switching from a plug-in hybrid to a dual-motor system with a small battery and engine charging capability also lets Subaru retain a larger fuel tank. Despite giving up a few mpg in comparison to competitors in the segment, including the Toyota Corolla Cross, Honda CR-V, and Hyundai Tucson hybrids, the Crosstrek can nonetheless manage just shy of 600 miles (966 km) between fillups (based on the EPA’s math, though of course driver behavior comes into play, too).

Getting away from it all.

Michael Teo Van Runkle

Getting away from it all.

Michael Teo Van Runkle

Catch bugs here.

Michael Teo Van Runkle

Catch bugs here.

Michael Teo Van Runkle

Plenty of room for bumper stickers.

Michael Teo Van Runkle

Plenty of room for bumper stickers.

Michael Teo Van Runkle

Catch bugs here.

Michael Teo Van Runkle

Plenty of room for bumper stickers.

Michael Teo Van Runkle

The only real con to the Crosstrek hybrid? No spare tire, which plays against that adventurous lifestyle that Subaru’s marketing always accentuates. And without a doubt, the Crosstrek Hybrid still definitely looks, feels, and drives like a budget-friendly car, because it is. Subaru needed to prioritize investment in the powertrain over premium materials or more extensive insulation, clearly. But that’s how a Crosstrek Hybrid can cost just $33,995 for the Sport trim and $34,995 for the slightly more optioned Limited package (or another $1,600 on top of the Limited to add a power moonroof and 360-degree camera setup).

The Crosstrek Hybrid also receives a standard digital gauge cluster, which only comes as part of a $2,200 optional package on the 2026 Forester, as well as increased sound deadening, animal-free upholstery, and revised tuning to the suspension versus the gas-only models. Now compare that pricing to $30,625 for the ICE Sport and $32,995 for the ICE Limited, and it’s clear that Subaru nailed exactly what the company’s incredibly loyal customers want.

If you can live with the styling, this generation’s new Crosstrek Hybrid delivers a unique level of fuel economy, performance, and capability unavailable elsewhere on the burgeoning compact crossover market. No wonder Subaru can’t build them fast enough—now if only the slightly more off-roady Wilderness trim could be combined with the hybrid powertrain.