2026 Subaru Forester SUV is a “pleasant surprise”
Automotive critic Mark Phelan spent a day with the 2026 Subaru Forester SUV and found the car to be effortless in the wilderness.
- Crosstrek Hybrid prices start at $33,995.
- The Crosstrek Hybrid will go on sale in November.
The Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid is back with better fuel economy and a host of other new features since 2023, when the automaker last offered hybrid power to its popular subcompact SUV.
The Hybrid is the top model in the Crosstrek model line. It has more power than the gas-only model, with 194 horsepower compared to 180 horsepower.
The Crosstrek competes with small SUVs such as the Chevrolet Trailblazer, Buick Encore GX, Honda HR-V, Hyundai Kona, Toyota Corolla Cross, and Volkswagen Taos.
Hybrids are rare among subcompact AWD SUVs. The Corolla Cross is the only hybrid among Crosstrek competitors.
Crosstrek prices start at $26,995, with the hybrid joining the lineup for $33,995. All prices exclude $1,420 destination charge.
I tested a well-equipped Hybrid Sport on country roads and wooded trails in rural Oregon. My test vehicle had a $33,995 sticker.
2026 Subaru Crosstrek trim levels and prices
- Basic: $26,995
- Premium: $27,995
- Sports: $30,625
- Limited: $32,995
- Wilderness: $33,795
- Sport Hybrid: $33,995
- Limited Hybrid: $34,995
Source: Edmunds. Prices do not include $1,420 destination charge.
Driving impression
The Crosstrek has one of the most spacious interiors in its class. It is comfortable and well-equipped, with convenient storage space and cargo capacity.
Subaru’s rural test site wasn’t suitable for the stop-and-go city driving that hybrids excel at, but the Crosstrek’s extra power was evident on winding mountain roads.
The route included some pretty challenging off-road trails that I think would hinder other subcompact SUVs. The Crosstrek Hybrid’s standard AWD handled everything with ease.
This system features a mechanical connection between the engine and the rear axle, unlike the Corolla Cross, which has a separate electric rear axle. Crosstrek planning manager Chris Charles said Subaru’s layout provides excellent off-road performance. I would never drive a Corolla Cross on that road, but the Crosstrek’s performance was convincing.
The Crosstrek’s design also allows it to enter and exit deep potholes without scraping the front or rear.
As with all Subarus, a large center-mounted touch screen manages most of the Crosstrek’s systems. A few more buttons would improve usability and reduce distractions, but it’s not the worst system on the road.
2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid Key Features
- all wheel drive
- 1,500 lb towing capacity
- 8.7 inches ground clearance
- Continuously variable transmission.
- 18 inch wheels
- Bicycle and pedestrian detection
- emergency steering assist
- automatic high beam
- Rear passenger reminder
- Standard push button start
- Standard dual-zone climate control with occupant sensors and voice controls
Why buy a 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid?
The Crosstrek Hybrid is attractive, capable, and efficient. The hybrid drivetrain provides a welcome power boost in addition to attractive fuel economy.
The interior is spacious, with plenty of space for shopping and pets.
Few, if any, subcompact SUVs can match the Crosstrek’s capabilities on backcountry trails.
2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid Overview
subcompact all-wheel drive SUV
5 seater
Base price: $33,995, excluding $1,420 destination charge
Released in the second half of November 2025
Test price: $33,995
Power: 2.5L 4-cylinder engine and electric motor
Total system power: 194 hp; no torque
Transmission: Continuously automatic
EPA estimated fuel economy: 36 mpg City/Highway/36 mpg Combined. Regular gasoline.
Wheelbase: 105.1 inches
Length: 176.4 inches
Width: 70.9 inches (79.4 inches with mirrors)
Height: 63 inches
Ground clearance: 8.7 inches
EPA Passenger Capacity: 100.2 cubic feet
Cargo Capacity: 18.6 cubic feet behind rear seats. 50.6 cubic feet with seats folded
Towing capacity: 1,500 lbs.
Vehicle weight: 3,296 lbs.
Assembled in Gunma Prefecture
Contact Mark Phelan: mmphelan@freepress.com. Follow him on Twitter @mark ferran. read more car and sign up for our service automotive newsletter. become a subscriber.
