Subaru reveals next-generation hybrid powertrain coming to Crosstrek and Forester

Subaru no longer sells a hybrid in the US now that the Crosstrek Hybrid is gone. That’s a problem it needs to rectify if it wants to compete in today’s electrified market, which is why the new Subaru Crosstrek and Forester will get a new battery-assisted powertrain. Interestingly, Subaru calls it a “strong hybrid” or S:HEV. I’ll admit it’s the first time I’ve heard that too.

Automotive news reports that the strong hybrid system will continue to use Subaru’s classic four-cylinder boxer design, longitudinally mounted with all-wheel drive. Engine displacement is up from the previous 2.0 liter mild hybrid, now at 2.5 litres. It produces 158 horsepower on its own and is paired with an 88-kilowatt electric motor, which is much more powerful than the old 143-hp, 10-kW combo. The battery size also increases from 0.6 kilowatt-hours to 1 kWh. Combined output hasn’t been specified yet, but Subaru says it knocks the old hybrid’s zero-to-60 time by 2.1 seconds.

“We have selected a powerful engine and a powerful drive motor for this strong hybrid system,” Shogo Oki, manager of Subaru’s engineering division, said during a technology briefing. “It generates strong enough driving performance to compete in the US market.”

Subaru’s hybrid won’t be a plug-in system, but will switch the engine and motor on or off as needed. Like many hybrids, the Subaru will turn off the engine during low-speed driving, using only the electric motor to drive the car. According to Subaru, this new configuration helps the Japanese-market Crosstrek achieve 621 miles of range, 50 percent more than before, thanks in part to a larger fuel tank that holds roughly 17 gallons.

Hybrid Crosstrek and Forester customers will also be able to charge devices and small appliances with the battery. Things like portable fridges, electric kettles and electric irons can be attached to the trunk of the car, which is useful for camping or any other outdoor activity that Subaru owners enjoy. The automaker clearly knows its target audience. It is also useful in a power outage.

The Japanese-market Crosstrek will get the hybrid system before the end of this year, and the Forester will follow in April 2025. It’s yet to be announced when either hybrid might come to the US.

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