By Otsile Kadiege

Subaru recently announced that they’ll be adding hybrid technology to the third-generation Crosstrek. Straight off the bat, the Crosstrek Hybrid is powered by a next-generation Subaru series-parallel hybrid powertrain that integrates an Atkinson/Miller-cycle 2.5-liter Subaru Boxer engine and electric motors with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). It has a total system output is 194 horsepower (143 kW) and a high-capacity, sealed lithium-ion battery rated at 1.1 kWh.

According to Subaru, the hybridisation of the powertrain has been integrate seamlessly into the existing all-wheel drive architecture without any loss in capability. In America, all trim levels of the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid are equipped with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, X-Mode with Hill Descent Control, and 8.7 inches of ground clearance to name a few.

Award-winning safety features

Once more, in America all Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid models are equipped with the latest version of Subaru’s award-winning EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. These improvements are thanks to a wider field of view, updated control software, and the addition of an electric brake booster. EyeSight can identify cyclists and pedestrians at intersections sooner and, when necessary, alert the driver and apply braking to avoid collisions. Additional active safety features are available for Crosstrek Hybrid, including Reverse Automatic Braking and Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.

The Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid also includes Emergency Stop Assist if the driver becomes unresponsive to warnings while using Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control. The new standard safety feature will stop the vehicle, activate the hazard lights, and unlock the doors. Subaru’s Starlink Connected Services will then place a call to emergency services.

Infotainment system

The Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid is available with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster with navigation and Apple Maps compatibility as well as a tablet-style Subaru Starlink 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus system. The 11.6-inch touchscreen is equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android™ Auto compatibility with full-screen display. The multimedia system also works as a center information display with combination meter integration and on-screen controls for audio, climate and vehicle functions. Additional features include Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio streaming connectivity; AM/FM stereo; rear vision camera; SiriusXM All-Access Radio and SiriusXM Travel Link (4-month free Platinum Plan); HD Radio; and over-the-air updates.

Exterior colour options

The hybrid model will debut two new exclusive exterior colors, Sand Dune Pearl and Citron Yellow Pearl, to compliment 18-inch dark gray alloy wheels, also exclusive to the Crosstrek Hybrid.