Subaru Crosstrek Plug-in Hybrid Coming for 2019 with Toyota Tech
A number of green-car buyers were disappointed when Subaru chose not to offer a hybrid version with the launch of its second-generation Crosstrek last year. While the original Crosstrek Hybrid wasn’t very good and failed to meet expectations, there was hope that a model redesign and upgraded system would come our way and make for a more viable alternative, but alas, that’s not what happened.
Now, however, with the Crosstrek fulfilling its great potential and enjoying tremendous sales success (it leads all Subaru vehicles in Canada and ranks third in the U.S.), the Japanese automaker is confident that the time is right for an encore.
Imagine all the fun-to-drive dynamics and AWD capabilities of the Subaru Crosstrek with plug-in hybrid technology. That’s what customers will be able to order for the 2019 model year.
Making things even more interesting is the fact that Subaru is once again teaming up with its technological partner Toyota (remember, the two jointly developed the Subaru BRZ/Toyota 86). The latter will supply its proven Hybrid Synergy Drive system currently found in several products, most notably the Prius Prime, thus maximizing fuel economy. An all-new transmission will be part of the package, too.
The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid will operate on pure electric power for local commuting (exact EV range has yet to be announced, but we assume it will be under 50 kilometres) before switching to regular hybrid mode, using both gasoline and electricity. Incidentally, there won’t be a non-plug-in version. As for the “Evoltis” name, which Subaru trademarked earlier this year, we still don’t know how and when it will be applied.
Naturally, some unique design cues will set the Crosstrek Hybrid apart from the gas-only model, although both will be built around the new Subaru Global Platform. It is scheduled to arrive at U.S. dealerships near the end of this year. No official word from Subaru Canada yet, but it’s safe to think we’ll see this one here. More details should be released in the coming months.
