2020 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid
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2020 Subaru Crosstrek Review
- One of the few plug-in hybrid SUVs available
- Spacious interior for a hatchback of its size
- High ground clearance for enhanced off-road capability
- Comfortable ride quality
- Subpar cargo capacity
- Questionable value compared to regular Crosstrek
- Some previously optional features are now standard
- New LED exterior lighting, engine stop-start and rear-seat reminder features
- Part of the second Crosstrek generation introduced for 2018
If the thought of the occasional off-road adventure sounds fun but you don't have the budget for a traditional off-road-biased SUV, the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid might just be for you. With standard all-wheel drive, something Subaru is famous for, and a standard 8.7 inches of ground clearance, the Crosstrek can scramble its way up and down obstacles that would stymie other small crossover SUVs.
The Crosstrek is also useful even if you rarely leave the urban jungle. It offers a pleasing amount of room for passengers and a smooth and comfortable ride over rough pavement. Maximum cargo space is a little underwhelming compared to what you get from a more squared-off SUV, but it should still be sufficient for most people.
Subaru offers two versions of the Crosstrek: the regular one and the Hybrid. The Hybrid comes with a plug-in hybrid version of the Crosstrek's 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. The result is an EPA-estimated all-electric driving range of 17 miles. That's not a whole lot, but plugging in and recharging frequently can make a big difference in reducing your fuel bills. Once the battery is depleted you can expect an overall fuel economy of around 35 mpg, which is 5 mpg better than the regular Crosstrek.
Another Hybrid advantage is acceleration. In our testing, we've found that it's quicker to zip off the line, which is nice because the regular Crosstrek is rather pokey. But on the downside, the Hybrid costs a lot more than a regular Crosstrek when new, though tax incentives help defray the cost. Cargo space is also diminished because of the space taken up by the battery pack. But overall, we like the Crosstrek Hybrid and recommend it for shoppers looking for an adventure-ready SUV that also gets great fuel economy.
Notably, we picked the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek Plug-In Hybrid as one of Edmunds' Cheapest Electric Cars for 2020.
Our verdict | |
It is worth noting that the Crosstrek Hybrid is a plug-in hybrid, which means it only makes sense if you can plug it in regularly. For those who can, it's a slightly quicker, sometimes quieter version of the Crosstrek that delivers confident road manners, an agreeable interior and excellent off-road potential. Other than cost, its main drawback is the battery's intrusion into the cargo area. | |
How does the Crosstrek drive? | |
The Crosstrek Hybrid's daily driving character differs from that of the gasoline version due to the electrification of its powertrain. In gasoline mode, it feels more willing because it accelerates quicker (about 1.5 seconds quicker to 60 mph) and exhibits more low-end torque around town. When the battery is charged, it delivers the smooth feel of direct drive in a pure EV mode. It excels off-road and exhibits coordination and control on winding mountain roads. The steering is reassuring too. But in more common suburban circumstances, it's quite vague and uncertain. The brakes are powerful and feel predictable when driving casually around town, but they can be springy with more aggressive use. | |
How comfortable is the Crosstrek? | |
Don't be fooled by the Crosstrek's jacked-up stance. The ride is unexpectedly smooth, controlled and comfortable. It makes sense when you consider this vehicle's generous suspension travel and reasonably sized wheels with ample sidewalls. We also found much to like about the nicely contoured seats and the effective air conditioning. As for noise, this plug-in hybrid has a Jekyll and Hyde personality. It's very quiet when running on battery power, but the engine and continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) do make themselves heard when the juice runs out. It's not as raucous in this mode as a gasoline-only Crosstrek, though, because the hybrid system's CVT automatic can blend in. | |
How’s the interior? | |
The Subaru Crosstrek may have a hiked-up stance, but that only serves to make it easier to enter and exit than a standard car. Once inside, the controls are easy to reach and simple to understand. The audio and climate controls are logically arrayed, and the two information screens complement each other. It feels reasonably roomy, too, particularly up front. That's because not only is it nicely spacious in a strict physical sense but also because the view out is expansive. It also helps that the driver has all the adjustments necessary to settle into an agreeable position behind the wheel. | |
How’s the tech? | |
The Crosstrek's technology is easy to get along with. The infotainment interface is pleasantly straightforward because the touchscreen employs a nice combination of physical controls and logical on-screen menus. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto hookups are easy, too. The sound quality isn't liable to win any awards, but it does the job. On the driver aid side, the Subaru's system is comprehensive and easy to live with. The accident avoidance systems never issued any false alarms, and the daily-use systems such as adaptive cruise control are effective and easy to use. We particularly like how the rear cross-traffic alert system is able to apply the brakes if a hazard appears suddenly when you're backing out of a parking space. | |
How’s the storage? | |
The regular Crosstrek's cargo hold isn't exactly cavernous. But the plug-in hybrid is even worse because the battery raises the load floor behind the rear seats substantially, reducing the cargo volume and raising the height that cargo must be lifted for loading. Further forward, the rear seats do accommodate child car seats well. And when no one is there, they fold down as they do in any other Crosstrek. Small-item storage is no better than adequate. The door pockets, center console box and glove compartment are reasonably sized, but there aren't many more places to stash items beyond these basics. | |
How economical is the Crosstrek? | |
The Crosstrek Hybrid is a plug-in hybrid that is EPA-rated to deliver 17 miles of electric driving before the engine comes to life. The gasoline engine may come on if you floor it, but it will stay dormant if you're easy on the throttle. We found the rated range easy to replicate and even exceed. Our best stint was 28 miles. Depending on the length (and speed) of your commute and your charging frequency, you may be able to dramatically lower your gasoline use. Speaking of gasoline, the Crosstrek Hybrid is rated at 35 mpg combined on gas alone, which is 5 mpg better than a regular Crosstrek. Our average observed fuel economy on gasoline was 33.6 mpg. | |
Is the Crosstrek a good value? | |
The question of whether to buy a Crosstrek Hybrid comes down to your personal circumstances. Its fuel economy is 6 mpg better than the all-gasoline version, but the hefty price difference only makes sense if you take full advantage of the federal tax credit and can plug it in daily to get the most out of the electric powertrain. Its range isn't massive, but we found it easy to exceed the rating in typical sluggish L.A. freeway traffic. Still, the longer your commute, the less it'll make sense. Subaru's warranty coverage is unremarkable, but the build quality of the Crosstrek is solid. Subarus typically hold their value well, but it is too early to tell if the same will be true of the plug-in hybrid. | |
Wildcard | |
The Crosstrek has the distinctive look of a vehicle that has been modified by its owner to be more capable off-road. It can back it up, too, because it is a willing companion on infrequently maintained dirt roads. But it is less impressive during the everyday driving you'll do on the days that come in between such adventures. The steering and brakes are less than intuitive, and the power is no better than average. | |
Which Crosstrek does Edmunds recommend?
There's only one trim level for the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid, and it's pretty much fully loaded. An optional package bundles together a sunroof, a heated steering wheel, a navigation system and premium audio. It's pricey, but you'll have to pick it if you want any of those features.
Subaru Crosstrek models
The 2020 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid comes in a single trim level that is comparable to the top Limited trim in the conventionally powered Crosstrek. Under the hood is a 2.0-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine connected to a hybrid system with a battery pack mounted underneath the cargo floor. The total output is 148 horsepower, which is sent to the Crosstrek's all-wheel-drive system through a continuously variable automatic transmission.
Save as much as $3,554 with Edmunds
2020 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid pricing
in Ashburn, VAHybrid
2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT
Edmunds Suggested Price$35,413
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Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek.
Trending topics in reviews
- comfort
- appearance
- engine
- towing
- fuel efficiency
- interior
- electrical system
- maintenance & parts
- climate control
- dashboard
- acceleration
- technology
- wheels & tires
- emission system
- steering wheel
- doors
- infotainment system
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Most helpful consumer reviews
4/5 stars, Gas Saving SUV ?
John,
Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
I bought the 2019 Crosstrek Plug in hybrid to do something for the enironment. Good clearance, and trailer pulling - two things I wanted for work and fun. I wish the electric range was longer, but by plugging in the middle of the day, I can usually go all electric around town for 40 to 45 miles- considerably farther than the EPA estimates. I added a 240 volt plug and purchased a second charger (despite assurances from the dealership thet the included unit could take both voltages) That means even an hour at home gives me another 10 miles.
Electric range drops if you drive on the freeway at 65.
A few too many buttons in the steering wheel- I will get used to them- or learn to ignore them.
Interior is spacious for passengers (compared to my old Forester). The seats fold down easily for carrying tools or gear and make up for the decreased cargo space.
3/5 stars, Hybrid mpg worse than Sport model
Jennifer ,
Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
I leased my Crosstrek Hybrid 6 months ago and have been constantly disappointed, embarrassed even, in the lack of fuel efficiency. My niece bought a new Crosstrek Sport around the same time. We’ve both taken our cars on long road trips, used for moderate commutes, and in town driving at lower speeds/more stops. Her fully gas engine has consistently gotten slightly better gas mileage than my hybrid, particularly on longer distance highway trips. I do quite a bit better on short in town trips, but still average way below Subaru’s claims. The absolute best gas mileage I have every achieved in the car is 50mpg, doing urban driving in Portland, OR. The mpg on the window sticker and Subaru website will tell you the vehicle gets between 35-90mpg. I honestly never expected to get 90mpg, we all know those claims are exaggerated. However, I never expected that my combined highway/city mpg would be less than 35mpg.
The rest of the car is fine. It isn’t as loaded with premium features as I expected, comparing to my brother’s Outback Limited. No rain sensing wipers, no automatic lift gate, no remote start. I could totally live with these missing luxuries if it achieved anywhere near the advertised mpg. It looks nice, it’s comfortable, the safety features are fantastic, and the handling is actually a little better than expected. The drivetrain feels inconsistent though, sometimes runs smoothly and pleasantly unremarkable but other times it sounds and feels like it is working way too hard.
Yes, off course I have reached out to Subaru with my concerns. I have taken it in twice and they find no defects. Even though they were not even able to get better than 35mpg driving it around town. They said I must be doing something wrong. Quick acceleration and hard braking, the mansplainer told me, can really impact your fuel economy. Apparently, you also have to keep it charged! These gentlemen at the dealership were actually very nice and well intentioned, but did they really think I didn’t know you have to keep a plug in hybrid charged? Also, I use one of those auto insurance apps that monitors my driving and even when I am intentionally trying to get the best mpg with gradual starts/stops, consistent moderate speeds - I cannot achieve better than 35mpg. That is with exhausting focus on how I am driving, which is not sustainable. I average 27mpg. My niece’s Sport averages 34mpg.
In this case the hybrid seems actually worse for the environment. You are using more gas and the materials used in a lithium battery are not exactly eco safe. I believe it involves mining and special disposal precautions for starters.
I have reached out to Subaru corporate and they have declined to comment or respond other than reiterating my lease terms. So disappointed.
4/5 stars, Great transition vehicle
DEG,
Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
Limited cargo space but huge passenger area for a little car. Super trainer as an electric vehicle - really helped move us into the 21st century:)
5/5 stars, 2020 Crosstrek Hybrid is a Winner
Jpone,
Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
PHEV is perfect if most of your driving is close by. No need for complicated chargers. Car rides beautiful. Feels like affordable lux.
2020 Subaru Crosstrek videos
Subaru Crosstrek vs Jeep Wrangler — Do you really need a Jeep to offroad?
NOTE: This video is about the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek, but since the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek is part of the same generation, our earlier analysis still applies.
Edmunds editors Travis Langness and Calvin Kim take the Subaru Crosstrek and the Jeep Wrangler out into the wilderness over rocks, under trees and into the open meadows of California's Sierra mountain range. These two redesigned vehicles are excellent off-the-lot off-roaders, but they offer very different on-road attitudes. The Crosstrek can be equipped with just about everything on its options list for under $31,000 while the Wrangler is pretty bare-bones at that price point. Which one of these dirt-going vehicles will fare better once the pavement ends?
Safety
Our experts’ favorite Crosstrek safety features:
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Warns you if traffic is approaching from the side when backing out of a parking space. Includes automatic braking as well.
- Lane Keep Assist
- Monitors your position on the road and can help steer if you unintentionally begin to drift out of your lane.
- Pre Collision Braking
- Automatically applies the brakes if an imminent front collision is detected and the driver doesn't react in time.
Subaru Crosstrek vs. the competition
2020 Subaru Crosstrek
2020 Subaru Outback
Subaru Crosstrek vs. Subaru Outback
Finding an equivalent for the Subaru Crosstrek is no easy feat because it combines many subcompact crossover SUV traits with an unusual amount of off-road capabilities. For that reason, some of its most direct competitors are its siblings in its own Subaru lineup. The Subaru Outback is larger. As you'd expect, the interior has more passenger space. But the Outback costs more, too.
Subaru Crosstrek vs. Subaru Forester
The Forester sits in the middle of the Subaru SUV spectrum between the Crosstrek and the Outback. The Forester has much of the same off-road capabilities as its siblings but benefits from a larger cargo space. But you'll want to go with the Crosstrek if you like the idea of lower monthly payments and a more distinctive style.
Subaru Crosstrek vs. Honda HR-V
If you're looking for a subcompact crossover SUV but don't need the off-road abilities of the Subaru Crosstrek, the Honda HR-V is likely a better fit. It possesses the practicality you'd require and is bolstered by some clever storage and cargo solutions. In particular, the rear seat gives the HR-V an unusual amount of flexibility for passengers and cargo. It also benefits from smart storage bins and pockets for smaller items.
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FAQ
Is the Subaru Crosstrek a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2020 Crosstrek both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.6 out of 10. You probably care about Subaru Crosstrek fuel economy, so it's important to know that the Crosstrek gets an EPA-estimated 35 mpg. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the Crosstrek has 15.9 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Subaru Crosstrek. Learn more
What's new in the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek:
- Some previously optional features are now standard
- New LED exterior lighting, engine stop-start and rear-seat reminder features
- Part of the second Crosstrek generation introduced for 2018
Is the Subaru Crosstrek reliable?
To determine whether the Subaru Crosstrek is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the Crosstrek. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the Crosstrek's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2020 Crosstrek and gave it a 7.6 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2020 Crosstrek is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2020 Subaru Crosstrek?
The least-expensive 2020 Subaru Crosstrek is the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $35,145.
Other versions include:
- Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) which starts at $35,145
What are the different models of Subaru Crosstrek?
If you're interested in the Subaru Crosstrek, the next question is, which Crosstrek model is right for you? Crosstrek variants include Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT). For a full list of Crosstrek models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more