
Yes, Subaru does have hybrid cars, though their approach is more focused on practicality and all-weather capability than on leading the market in pure electric range. Currently, the sole hybrid model in their U.S. lineup is the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid. It’s essentially a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) version of their popular Crosstrek subcompact SUV. The core answer is that if you want a Subaru hybrid, the Crosstrek Hybrid is your only option, blending a gasoline engine with an electric motor for improved fuel efficiency in city driving while retaining the standard Subaru all-wheel drive (AWD) system.
The Crosstrek Hybrid combines a 2.0-liter flat-four (Boxer) engine with two electric motors. This setup allows for a short period of all-electric driving, which is ideal for daily commutes. The electric-only range is officially rated at 17 miles. After the battery depletes, it operates like a conventional hybrid, using both the engine and regenerative braking to recharge the battery and assist with propulsion. This makes it a great choice for someone with a predictable, shorter daily drive who can charge at home overnight.
A key advantage is that it retains Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, making it a capable choice for various road conditions. However, its combined horsepower is lower than some competitors, which affects its acceleration. It's best suited for drivers who prioritize fuel savings on local trips and need the security of AWD, rather than those seeking high performance.
Here’s a quick data comparison of the Crosstrek Hybrid against its standard gasoline counterpart and a key competitor:
| Feature | Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid | Subaru Crosstrek (Gasoline) | Toyota RAV4 Prime (PHEV) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) | 2.0L 4-cylinder | Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) |
| Combined Horsepower | 148 hp | 152 hp | 302 hp |
| All-Electric Range | 17 miles | N/A | 42 miles |
| MPGe (Electric Mode) | 35 MPGe | N/A | 94 MPGe |
| Total Range | 480 miles | 492 miles | 600 miles |
| Base MSRP (Est.) | ~$36,000 | ~$26,000 | ~$43,000 |
In summary, Subaru's hybrid offering is a niche product that perfectly serves a specific buyer: someone deeply loyal to the brand's AWD ethos who wants to dip their toes into electrification for daily errands without compromising on bad-weather capability.

We leased one for my wife, and it's been perfect for our suburban life. She charges it overnight in the garage, and her 15-mile round trip to work and the store is almost all on electric. We barely use gas during the week. On weekends, we don't worry about charging; the gas engine and AWD kick in for trips to the mountains. It’s not a speed demon, but it saves us a ton on fuel and gives us that Subaru confidence in snow. It's the ideal "starter" electric car for a cautious family.

As a tech guy, I find the Crosstrek Hybrid's implementation a bit dated. The 17-mile electric range feels limited compared to newer PHEVs, and the infotainment system isn't the most responsive. The real value is in the seamless integration of the electric motors with the mechanical AWD system—it's genuinely clever engineering that provides instant traction. But if you're looking for cutting-edge battery tech or a sporty drive, you might be disappointed. It's a practical, capable system built for reliability over excitement.

Honestly, I was disappointed. I test-drove it hoping for the pep you get from other hybrids, but it felt sluggish, especially when the battery was low. The cargo space is also smaller because of the battery pack. For the premium price, the fuel savings didn't seem enough to justify the compromises for my needs. I ended up with the standard Crosstrek. It gets great gas mileage already, and I have more room for my gear. The hybrid is a good idea, but the execution needs an update to be competitive.


