Flash Drive

2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid

December 30, 2019 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 

Model Tested: 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Plug-In Hybrid

This looks like typical rugged terrain for a Subaru Crosstrek, which it is, but this Crosstrek is also a plug-in electric hybrid.

Engine:2.0-liter flat-4 plus two electric motors, 148-horsepower combined

Transmission: CVT automatic, all-wheel-drive

EPA Rating: 26-mpg city, 33-mpg highway, 29-mpg combined

Base Price: $34,995

As Tested: $38,470

Performance:

Pleasant highway ride

Not a road rocket like Subaru WRX

Still faster 0-to-60 than standard Crosstrek

Lineatronic CVT transmission

17-mile EV range is less than some PHEVs

The extra access door for the charging cable is the big hint that is a special Subaru.

Up to 90 MPGe and 480-mile range

Quick charging: 2 hours w/240V and 5 hours w/120V

11.2-inch rear disc brakes

1000 pound towing capacity

Has a legendary Subaru AWD capability

Great in bad weather

Impressive off-road performance

Lots of standard active safety features

Comfort:

High-quality interior

Interior space and comfort are impressive.

Heated (3 temps) front seats

Heated steering wheel

Super stretch-out driver and front passenger legroom

Very good rear seat leg, knee, and shoe room

Wide opening rear doors

Soft rear armrest

Ample headroom

Large range tilt/telescopic steering column

Excellent auxiliary controls

Cargo area access is great, but the floor mounted battery pack compromises utility.

Utility:

Wide hatch opening, ample clearance

Split, folding rear seats

Less cargo space than regular Crosstrek due to large battery pack

Big locking glovebox

Medium front door bins with big bottle notches

Easy access child car seat anchors

Large infotainment screen

Separate smaller screen for hybrid info

The Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid is a capable and pleasant riding highway car and daily driver.

Small sun visors

WOW Factors:

Off-road capable plug-in hybrid

Impressive active safety features

Great, oversize blind spot monitor lamps

Roomy, comfortable interior for all occupants

Whines:

The cargo area isn’t flat due to battery pack

Noisy regenerative braking—we looked

Subaru’s legendary AWD capabilities mean the Crosstrek can go place no ordinary compact wagon would dare venture.

around for emergency vehicles

Bottom Line:

The Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid is an all-new model. It’s the company’s first plug-in hybrid. The plug-in idea is commendable, but the excellent efficiency of the regular Crosstrek doesn’t justify the extra cost and loss of towing/cargo capabilities unless driving a PHEV mollifies your guilt of owning an SUV. We’d opt for the regular Crosstrek and donate the savings to a conservation cause.