2023 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid Reviews, Pricing & Specs

Subaru listens to its buyers and designs vehicles that meet their needs. The Crosstrek is a great example, as it combines a compact exterior size with generous interior dimensions and useful all-wheel drive (AWD). Though the automaker offers the standard Crosstrek in several configurations, the Hybrid is available in a single trim with most of the goodies baked in as standard equipment.

What’s New for the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid

There are no significant changes for 2023, but Subaru added a new Desert Khaki exterior color and updated finishes for the Special Edition trim level.

Design

The Crosstrek Hybrid looks nearly identical to the standard model, other than different badging. Though it entered its second generation in 2018, the Crosstrek of today doesn’t look radically different from the first-gen models. It features a cropped rear end and compact size with a tall ride height and rugged accents like black plastic body cladding.

Powertrain

Subaru installs a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors that make 148 horsepower. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) sends power to all four wheels through Subaru’s excellent symmetrical AWD system. Thanks to its plug-in hybrid powertrain, the Crosstrek Hybrid delivers 17 miles of electric-only range and up to 35 mpg in standard hybrid mode.

The Hybrid has more horsepower than the standard model and is quicker as a result. That’s not to say it’s fast, though, as that fizz fizzles at higher speeds. Passing on the highway takes patience and more throttle than it should.

Interior

The Crosstrek Hybrid’s interior feels and looks solid, but there’s little in the way of visual appeal. Leather upholstery comes standard, along with heated front seats and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. Buyers can add a heated steering wheel.

Technology

An 8-inch touchscreen comes standard in the 2023 Crosstrek Hybrid, along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM radio, Bluetooth, USB inputs, a Wi-Fi hotspot HD radio, and six speakers. Subaru’s infotainment system is improved and easier to use than previous versions were, and it runs smoothly on the crisp display.

Safety

The Crosstrek Hybrid comes standard with a load of driver-assistance tech, including forward and reverse collision warnings, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alerts, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alerts, adaptive headlights, automatic high beams, automatic emergency braking, and rear-seat alerts.

The 2023 Crosstrek earned a Top Safety Pick in testing by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The SUV performed well in most crash tests, but fell short in the new side test, earning a “Poor” score. The headlights were rated “Good” or “Poor,” depending on the trim, and the front crash prevention systems both earned “Superior” ratings. Car seat installation is a breeze, as the Crosstrek earned a “Good+” for ease of use.

Pricing

The 2023 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid starts at just over $38,000. A $2,500 package is available that adds a moonroof, a Harman Kardon stereo, and navigation.