Does Subaru Make a Plug-In Hybrid?

In January 2020, Subaru’s president Tomomi Nakamura announced plans to have 40% of its global sales be hybrid or electric-only vehicles by the beginning of the 2030s. Luckily, you don’t need to wait until then to drive a plug-in hybrid Subaru vehicle, as Subaru does make a plug-in hybrid. Toyota, which already owns 20% of Subaru, has helped spearhead the hybrid movement in Subaru by using its technology.

2021 Crosstrek Hybrid

Although it’s only available in one trim, the 2021 Crosstrek Hybrid has several features that separate it from the gas-powered Crosstrek. Its new fascia has a more wing-like set of bars that flank the grille as well as prominent foglights sitting in the lower bumper. The hybrid also has a refined suspension that provides a smoother ride and superior handling.

The Crosstrek Hybrid uses Subaru StarDrive Technology, which combines the efficiency of a plug-in vehicle with the long-range capability of the boxer gasoline engine. The gas-powered engine charges the electric battery even if you can’t plug it in, so you don’t need to worry about running out of electric power. By driving in Battery Charge Mode, the gas engine can charge the battery even when you’re stopped and can give you 33% more battery capacity in just 30 minutes of driving.

Its engine remains the same from the previous year. The 2.0-liter 152-horsepower boxer-4 engine has a Toyota-derived plug-in hybrid system, providing an output of 148 horsepower. It also offers all-wheel drive via a mechanical system compared to a separate over-the-road motor used with the rear wheels, making it one of a handful of plug-in vehicles that offer all-wheel drive.

The vehicle uses Subaru’s innovative EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which uses dual color cameras and acts as another set of eyes when you’re driving. It monitors traffic movement, optimizes cruise control, and alerts you if you sway out of your lane. It also can activate the Pre-Collision Braking feature, which applies full braking force in emergencies, helping you to reduce the impact from frontal collisions. These impressive safety features didn’t go unnoticed by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, as the Crosstrek Hybrid earned a Top Safety Pick+ designation.

When used in hybrid mode, the vehicle gets an EPA-estimated 35 mpg, while the efficiency rating hits an outstanding 90 MPGe in electric mode. These numbers make it the most fuel-efficient all-wheel-drive plug-in hybrid in the country. The vehicle also attains a 17-mile electric range, which is the same as the 2020 model year. You can expect to reach a full charge in about five hours with a 120-volt outlet and in a little less than two hours if you use a 240-volt outlet. Most commercial charging stations utilize 240-volt chargers.

Not only does the Crosstrek Hybrid achieve impressive numbers on the road and saves you money when it comes to filling it up, it might also qualify you for tax incentives. Certain states might give you a $1,500 tax credit, while the federal government might give you $4,500. This plug-in hybrid also qualifies for solo High-Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lane access in California, Maryland, and New York.

Future Subaru Plug-In Hybrid Plans

As mentioned, Subaru has plans to create electric-only vehicles in just a few years. It also hopes to offer all of its vehicles either with a battery-electric or hybrid powertrain by the mid-2030s. This sense of urgency was spurred by California Governor Gavin Newsom announcing a ban on gas-powered vehicles by the start of 2035. By that time, all new vehicles sold in the state must be zero-emission vehicles. Since California is one of Subaru’s largest markets, the company believes it cannot afford to lose sales in the state.

This doesn’t mean, however, that all of Subaru’s vehicles will only come with electric or hybrid powertrains. It merely suggests that the manufacturer is focused on designing more energy-efficient options. The announcement from California’s governor might cause Subaru to bring all-electric options to the Forester, Outback, and Ascent sooner than anticipated.

Until then, the manufacturer is busy developing a fully electric crossover vehicle. Toyota and Subaru announced their joint partnership in 2019 to include autonomous-driving technology. They’re also developing a new electric-car platform for mid-size and large passenger vehicles that both Toyota and Subaru will use. That means it will work for sedans and SUVs.

The two companies are working on a vehicle that’s roughly the same size as the Forester. It’s also thought that this new vehicle will compete with other new vehicles, including the Volkswagen ID.4 and Nissan Ariya. The hope is to have this new crossover, which is rumored to be named Evoltis, hit the market before the end of 2021.

Reports are that this brand-new vehicle will use a new electric powertrain with a lithium-ion battery that allows you to travel 310 miles. Its exterior has a large hexagon grille for a completely different look. The LED headlights extend all the way to the bumper, giving an entirely new appearance for a Subaru vehicle. The vehicle also plans to have the EyeSight technology as well as an abundance of safety features such as automatic deceleration along curves, lane-change assist, and 360-degree sensing.

As for other future plug-in hybrid plans from Subaru, you might need to wait until other manufacturers announce plans. Unlike its larger Japanese and American rivals, Subaru doesn’t have an extensive research and development team to perfect its all-electric technology. Subaru is content waiting on the sidelines until the cost of batteries drops significantly, but will continue to work closely with Toyota on its own plug-in hybrid plans.

Subaru Plug-In Hybrid Available At Hiley Subaru in Fort Worth, TX

If you still have questions about the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid or are curious about Subaru’s plans for additional plug-in hybrid vehicles, reach out to the experts at Hiley Subaru of Fort Worth. Our experienced sales staff members boast many years of service and can not only answer those questions but help you get behind the wheel of the Crosstrek Hybrid. Contact us today, and we can help you drive home in one of these Subaru vehicles soon.