The 2022 Subaru Crosstrek is one of the best small crossovers. Among its many benefits is the wide array of trims and options. A difficult decision some buyers will have to make involves its range-topping models, including the Crosstrek Hybrid and Crosstrek Limited. Here’s a look at whether the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid is worth its price tag. 

How the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid compares to the gas-powered Limited trim

Off the bat, there’s a big difference between the price of the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid and the other models. The Crosstrek Hybrid starts at $36,345, according to Subaru. That’s $7,350 more than the Crosstrek Limited — the top trim in the regular gas-powered model. Compared to the base model, the hybrid version is even more expensive, costing $13,200 more than the standard Crosstrek.

Some of that price difference comes from their powertrains. The Crosstrek Hybrid has a 2.0-liter four-cylinder PHEV powertrain making 148 hp and 149 lb-ft of torque. It pairs with an 8.8-kWh battery, allowing it to get 90 MPGe and go 17 miles on battery power only. By comparison, the Crosstrek Limited packs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing gets 182 hp and 176 lb-ft of torque, but its gas mileage is only about 31 mpg combined.

Thus, the Crosstrek Hybrid can make up its higher upfront cost when gas prices are high. Alternatively, drivers who travel short distances can take advantage of the Crosstrek Hybrid’s battery-only mode. Using only its batteries, this SUV is even cheaper to own than the regular Crosstrek.

The hybrid model also boasts these upgrades

Its PHEV powertrain isn’t the only reason why the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid is $13,000 more than the regular base model. Subaru gave the PHEV many luxury upgrades that are also on the Limited trim. For example, both models have heated front seats, leather upholstery, and a 6.3-inch color multifunction display. 

The Crosstrek Hybrid shares many other amenities with a fully loaded Limited trim. For example, both have an 8.0-inch touchscreen display, but built-in navigation is optional for both. Both trims also have a long list of smart safety features, including Subaru EyeSight, blind-spot detection, and reverse automatic braking.

However, there are some differences in terms of what each model provides. Subaru offers most packages and options on both, but the Crosstrek Hybrid has exclusive access to a few options. For example, Subaru offers a heated steering wheel for the Crosstrek Hybrid but not for the other models, not even the Limited. Due to these differences, the Crosstrek Hybrid may be worth its higher price tag, especially when gas prices are high.

Overview of the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek

Unfortunately, the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid isn’t available for sale nationwide. It’s currently sold only in states that follow California’s zero-emission standards. As a result, many Americans will have to consider only the gas-only Crosstrek models. Even so, it’s still an excellent subcompact crossover.

The standard 2022 Subaru Crosstrek has a 2.0-liter four-cylinder and makes 152 hp and 148 lb-ft of torque. This allows it to get about 28 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway for 31 mpg combined. It also comes with all-wheel drive, a 6.5-inch touchscreen, and many of the standard smart safety features the Crosstrek Hybrid provides.