2019 Subaru Crosstrek Plug-In Hybrid is Both Quicker and More Efficient

In general, the Subaru Crosstrek is a great little hatch. Not only did we name it an SUV of the Year finalist for 2018, we also liked it enough to add one to our long-term test fleet. Its biggest downside, though, it that it’s pretty slow. So now that Subaru has officially revealed the Crosstrek Hybrid, we’re happy to report that the more fuel-efficient Crosstrek is also quicker.

Starting with a more efficient version of the regular Crosstrek’s 2.0-liter engine and CVT, Subaru added two electric motors and an 8.8-kWh battery. The first serves as a starter motor and generator that can charge the battery, while the second powers the wheels with a maximum output of 118 hp and 149 lb-ft of torque. That brings the total system output up to 148 hp and an undisclosed amount of torque.

Whatever that torque figure is, it must be quite a bit higher than the 145 lb-ft you get from the regular Crosstrek. That’s because Subaru claims the Crosstrek Hybrid is a full second quicker to 60 mph than the non-hybrid. That would make its 0-60 mph time about 9 seconds, which isn’t truly quick, but it’s certainly an improvement. That estimate might be on the conservative side, as we managed to get a 2018 Subaru Crosstrek to 60 mph in 9 seconds in our testing.

Acceleration also probably won’t be most Crosstrek Hybrid buyers’ top priority. Instead, they’ll focus more on its 17 miles of all-electric range, 35-mpg combined rating, and ability to go about 480 miles between fill-ups. With all-wheel drive and 8.7 inches of ground clearance, the Crosstrek Hybrid should still make a great all-weather vehicle and mild off-roader. It can even tow up to 1,000 pounds. Charging should take about two hours on a 240-volt charger.

To visually differentiate the hybrid, Subaru added blue headlight accents, as well as silver trim on the grille, lower front bumper, body cladding, and foglights. Around back, you also get a “Plug-In Hybrid” badge. The Crosstrek Hybrid rides on 18-inch wheels and comes in four colors, including the blue shown here.

As you would expect, the hybrid version of the Crosstrek is priced at a premium. While the non-hybrid starts at $22,870 including destination, the PHEV will run you at least $35,970 before applicable tax credits. Granted, it comes equipped like a top-of-the-line Limited model with a few hybrid-specific touches, so that’s not as big of a price increase as it looks. There’s also a $2,500 option package that includes a power moonroof, heated steering wheel, navigation, and a premium Harman Kardon sound system.

Subaru hasn’t said exactly when the Crosstrek Hybrid will go on sale, but look for it to hit dealers “near the end of this year.”

Source: Subaru

 

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