As you might expect from a compact crossover bearing the Subaru name, the XV Crosstrek Hybrid offers distinctive character to go with its efficiency and all-wheel drive capability. Its rugged styling makes it seem more like a lifestyle vehicle than a family hauler, though it fulfills both roles without complaint.
The XV Crosstrek Hybrid is essentially unchanged.
The five-passenger XV Crosstrek Hybrid is based on the latest Impreza, but rides three inches higher and carries a more rugged suspension. You get 22 cubic feet of flat load space behind the rear seats, which grows to 52 cubic feet when they're folded.
The Hybrid starts out with same 148-horsepower 2-liter four cylinder engine as other Crosstrek models, but also gets an electric motor that increases output to 160 horsepower. All examples carry Subaru's capable all-wheel drive system and an automated continuous variable transmission (CVT).
There's no loss in performance compared to the conventional gasoline model, and you can expect to achieve 31 mpg in combined driving. As expected, hybrid-specific instrumentation is standard, and you also get something quite unexpected -- an audible alert that tells pedestrians that the vehicle is approaching when it's operating in whisper-quiet electric mode.
The XV Crosstrek Hybrid starts out in upscale Limited dress, so all models are well equipped. For a near-luxury experience, you can upgrade to Touring trim.
Comes with a rearview camera, heated front seats and mirrors, automatic climate control, Bluetooth phone and audio, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, ambient interior lighting and a six-speaker sound system. The exterior gets roof rails and unique 17-inch alloy wheels to set it apart from ordinary Crosstreks.
Tops off the Hybrid with leather upholstery, a sunroof, a navigation system, satellite radio and a larger in-dash touchscreen.
Since there are no individual options for the XV Crosstrek Hybrid, picking the right trim level is especially important. Upgrading to the Touring makes the interior a much nicer place to spend your commute, so the $3,300 premium will be worth it over the long haul in our view.
Choose your Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid »
