What Makes the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid Special?
For many drivers considering a hybrid, opting for an SUV is the way to go. SUVs have been extremely popular, and many brands place quite a lot of resources into them. For Subaru, the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek is one of the manufacturer’s hottest vehicles to date. Subaru is not limiting this subcompact SUV to a gasoline engine, though. You can actually get the Crosstrek as a plug-in hybrid SUV.
Does the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid use gas?
Although it is a hybrid SUV, the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid does use a gasoline engine. It utilizes a Subaru BOXER engine that is complimented by electric motors. And that gives you the benefit of being able to drive long distances but still having the ability to switch to electric mode when driving short distances. The 2023 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid is ideal for those not looking to get a full EV yet.
Subaru has stated that the 2023 Crosstrek Hybrid can achieve up to 90 MPGe and drive up to 480 miles. But, in a real-world application, those numbers might be different. Still, because of the electrified drivetrain, the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid does feel more responsive than the standard model.
At the moment, the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid is really the only vehicle of its kind. There are other PHEV SUVs out there, like the Toyota RAV4 Prime. But those vehicles are larger. Plus, the Crosstrek is known to be an SUV with legitimate off-road ability.
Can you buy a 2023 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid?
Although the Crosstrek Hybrid has a lot to love about it, you can’t buy it everywhere. Subaru is only selling this hybrid SUV at select dealerships, so you might not be able to purchase one. The hybrid Crosstrek is only offered in one trim level, and that would be the top trim.
The 2023 Crosstrek Hybrid has a starting cost of $36,845. And as more competitors arrive on the market, it might be questionable if it’s that good of a value proposition. Especially when you consider that you lose some cargo room due to the batteries. At the same time, you do get plenty of standard features, like safety tech and leather seating.
Is Subaru discontinuing the Crosstrek Hybrid?
It’s not the best-selling version of the Crosstrek, but the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid has returned for 2023. According to MotorTrend, it benefits from 148 horsepower. And like most Subaru models, it does come standard with all-wheel drive and ample ground clearance.
It seems like the biggest thing holding this plug-in hybrid SUV back is its availability and price. Most buyers might be put off by having to give up cargo room while paying extra for the benefits of electrification. The battery does allow for up to 17 miles of all-electric range on a single charge. So, depending on your needs, you might be able to keep this Crosstrek in electric mode most of the time.
The IIHS named the Crosstrek Hybrid a 2022 Top Safety Pick+. And it would be easy to see that continue for 2023. After all, Subaru is known for its strong commitment to driver and passenger safety.
