Auto & Bike Blog: 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid: The Logical Fashion Statement

Thursday 22 November 2018

2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid: The Logical Fashion Statement

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid returns up to 90 MPGe.
Full range of 480 miles when using both gas and electric power.
The Crosstrek Hybrid makes its official debut at the upcoming Los Angeles Auto Show.

Here is the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid, the first-ever Subaru plug-in hybrid vehicle. Wait, can that be right? Subie has never made a plug hybrid until now? Yup, that is right. Well it’s about time, for one thing, and they could have put a hybrid drive in a more practical package, for another.

If you were being logical, the Crosstrek would be the only real “SUV” choice. But I get it, fashion statements must be made; the hierarchy at the school drop off zone must be maintained. That’s why people drive things like Range Rovers and BMW X-Types. But if you’re being logical, look no further than the Crosstrek.

And now that they’re making a hybrid version, you can ignore the perceived need to buy a Prius.

StarDrive Engage!

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid has unique exterior and interior styling, so others will know just how cool and eco-conscious you are. And, since it’s a hybrid, the latest Crosstrek qualifies for HOV permits in places like California and New York. Given the Crosstrek is Subie’s third-best-selling model in America since its debut six years ago, the Japanese company didn’t want to mess it up. Hence why the hybrid is nicely refined and thought out.

The hybrid system is Subaru’s new StarDrive Technology, which integrates the electric motors, the evergreen 2.0-liter direct-injection boxer engine, the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, and a new Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission. StarDrive Technology (which is a totally bitchin’ sci-fi name, isn’t it? “Mr. Spock, prepare to engage the Star Drive!”) uses two electric motors; one motor also works as the engine starter and can function as a generator for the hybrid battery.

The second motor powers the Crosstrek in hybrid and electric modes, and charges the batteries during regenerative braking.

Related: Why the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek is one of the more logical SUVs on the market.

The Crosstrek Hybrid employs a high-capacity lithium-ion battery (beneath the cargo area) for an EV range of 17 miles. Photo: Subaru of America, Inc.

Organic Performance

And no, this ain’t no Harry Hairshirt, hipper than thou granola-mobile. Subaru has dialed up the fun (a little). To wit: The Crosstrek Hybrid is capable of speeds up to 65 mph in full electric mode, and it clocks in a full second faster, zero to 60, than the standard Crosstrek. Huzzah! Efficiency suffers? Au contraire, mon frère: Up to 90 MPGe with a total range of 480 miles and an EV range of 17 miles running on the lithium-ion battery alone.

A newly-developed, electronically-controlled brake system distributes stopping force between the regenerative brakes and the mechanical ones for better power regeneration, fuel efficiency, and battery life. Nice!

The Crosstrek Hybrid shares a number of goodies with its “normal” Crosstrek sibling. It has the same standard Linerartronic CVT with X-Mode and Hill Descent Control for slippery, off-pavement roads. The Hybrid has 8.7-inches of ground clearance (nice!) and can tow 1,000 lbs. The Hybrid has the same 60/40-split fold-down rear seats and up to 43.1 cubic feet of cargo space. And the standard performance management SI-Drive system adapts the throttle characteristics to your liking between “Intelligent” and “Sport” modes.

There is also Active Torque Vectoring for sharper control and handling.

2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid. Photo: Subaru of America, Inc.

This ain't no Harry Hairshirt, hipper than thou granola-mobile.
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Tech & Safety Gear

Naturally, there’s a bunch of tech stuff on board as well. Standard features include the eight-inch multimedia system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, push-button start, automatic climate control, and two rear USB ports. The standard All-Weather Package comes with heated front seats, a windshield wiper de-icer, and heated exterior mirrors. The steering wheel (leather-wrapped, natch) includes audio, Bluetooth, and SI-Drive control switches.

A 4.2-inch color LCD screen has a power meter for monitoring real-time output and battery regeneration. The multi-function display, perched above the center stack, incorporates the driving and charging screens.

Safety gizmos include Steering Responsive Headlights to illuminate curves as you steer (just like Citroens from the 1970s!). Reverse Automatic Braking is there in case you nearly back over something, and LED High Beam Assist helps you light up the road without blinding oncoming traffic. The Pedestrian Alert System provides an audible warning to pedestrians when you’re traveling below 20 mph.

Pricing & Availability

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid will arrive by the end of the year. Pricing starts at a rather reasonable $34,995.

Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He is the author of Bricks & Bones: The Endearing Legacy and Nitty-Gritty Phenomenon of The Indy 500, available in paperback or Kindle format. Follow his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz