2018 Subaru Crosstrek vs 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid

The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek presented a more SUV-like front end, with a taller and more imposing stance compared to its predecessor. Its headlight design was tighter, and the fog-light bezels and wheel arches featured more pronounced, aggressive cladding, evoking an outdoor spirit. Inside, the Crosstrek maintained its rugged image with basic plastic surfaces, designed to withstand wear and tear. The interior trim had a faux carbon fiber look, and the seats were supportive with firm bolstering and sharp orange accent stitching, making it ideal for adventurous outings. The trims ranged from Base, with minimal features, to Premium and Limited, which offered additional comforts like heated seats and a larger infotainment screen.

In contrast, the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid had distinct visual cues, such as bright gray inserts and blue frames around the headlights, setting it apart from the conventional Crosstrek. Available in exclusive colors like "Lagoon Blue," it was eye-catching. Inside, the Hybrid featured unique cabin touches, including blue inserts and two-tone leather seats with blue contrast stitching. The interior was well-equipped with standard features like heated front seats and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. However, the battery pack reduced rear cargo space, but the vehicle compensated with a host of standard features, including adaptive headlights and a premium infotainment system.

The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek was powered by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque. It offered a choice between a 6-speed manual and a CVT, both paired with Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive. The manual transmission delivered fuel economy of 23 mpg city and 29 highway, while the CVT improved it to 29 city and 33 highway. The Crosstrek impressed with its driving dynamics, offering responsive handling and a composed ride, thanks to features like X-Mode and Hill Descent Control, which enhanced its off-road capabilities.

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid combined a 2.0-liter Boxer engine with two electric motors, generating 137 horsepower and 134 pound-feet of torque. Its plug-in system allowed for an electric-only range of 17 miles, with a full charge taking five hours on a 120-volt outlet. Despite its hybrid nature, the Crosstrek Hybrid maintained Subaru's capable all-wheel-drive system. However, the added weight of the hybrid components affected acceleration and handling, making it less agile than its gas-powered counterpart. The Hybrid achieved an EPA rating of 90 MPGe and a combined 35 mpg on gas alone, offering a balance of efficiency and capability.

The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek featured a redesigned taillight, allowing for a wider hatch opening and up to 51.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded. While not as spacious as some compact crossovers, it offered more room than subcompact rivals. The backseat provided ample head- and legroom, making it practical for both daily commutes and weekend adventures.

In the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid, the absence of a handbrake made way for an electronic emergency-brake toggle, optimizing space for controls and cupholders. The driving position was upright, offering a commanding view, and the rear seat accommodated taller passengers comfortably. However, the cargo area was reduced to 41 cubic feet due to the battery pack, limiting its practicality compared to the conventional Crosstrek.

The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek came with the StarLink infotainment system, featuring a 6.5-inch touchscreen on Base and Premium trims, and an 8-inch screen on the Limited. The system was user-friendly, with bright icons and easy navigation. It supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing for seamless smartphone integration without the need for a navigation package.

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid boasted a premium StarLink system with an 8-inch touchscreen as standard. It offered a sensible menu layout and no lag, along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The multi-information display atop the dash provided useful data on fuel economy and hybrid system status, controlled via a steering wheel button for simplicity.

The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek included standard safety features like airbags, a reversing camera, and traction control. It offered Subaru’s EyeSight system, which included forward-collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Additional options included automatic high beams and blind-spot detection, enhancing driver awareness.

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid also came with standard safety features and the EyeSight suite, offering semi-autonomous highway driving capabilities. It included adaptive high beams, blind-spot detection, and reverse automatic braking, providing comprehensive safety coverage for modern driving challenges.