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First Drives Confirm 36‑MPG, 194‑HP Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid as Forester Wilderness Gains Off‑Road Upgrades

The hybrid integrates a two‑motor system with mechanical AWD to favor predictable traction plus long range.

Overview

  • The 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid shares the Forester’s two‑motor planetary setup with a revised 2.5‑liter flat‑four for about 194 hp and stronger low‑speed torque.
  • Official EPA ratings list the Crosstrek Hybrid at 36 mpg combined, with reviewers noting roughly 10% better passing performance than the non‑hybrid.
  • A compact 1.1‑kWh battery sits under the rear floor to largely preserve cargo space and, with the retained 16.6‑gallon tank, yields nearly 600 miles of range.
  • U.S. arrivals begin in November, with the Hybrid offered in Sport and Limited trims starting at $35,415 including destination and featuring a standard digital gauge cluster.
  • The 2026 Forester Wilderness adds 9.3 inches of ground clearance, shorter final drive, larger rear differential, skid plates, and a 3,500‑lb tow rating, with pricing around $39,835 to about $41,275 as tested.