2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid vs 2020 Subaru Ascent

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid distinguished itself from its conventionally powered counterparts with unique visual elements. It featured bright gray inserts along the sides and front lower bumper, as well as blue frames around the upgraded headlight clusters. The exclusive “Lagoon Blue” color added to its eye-catching appeal. Inside, the Crosstrek Hybrid boasted blue inserts and two-tone leather seats with blue contrast stitching, all standard. Despite its well-equipped nature, the hybrid's rear cargo space was limited due to the battery placement, but it compensated with features like adaptive headlights and a winter windshield de-icer.

In contrast, the 2020 Subaru Ascent presented a robust and practical design, reminiscent of a larger Forester. It featured gray plastic cladding for protection, an oversized grille, and exaggerated fender flares. The Ascent's interior, especially in the Touring trim, offered a luxurious feel with Java Brown leather and a panoramic sunroof. The Ascent's design was both functional and stylish, with thoughtful details like a super-useful dashboard shelf and ambient lighting. The spacious interior accommodated tall passengers comfortably, and the third-row access was made easy with large side doors and sliding second-row seats.

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid combined a 2.0-liter Boxer four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, producing 137 horsepower and 134 pound-feet of torque. Its AWD system was as capable as any Subaru, offering confidence over rough terrains. The plug-in hybrid system allowed for a 17-mile electric-only range, with a full charge taking five hours on a 120-volt outlet. Despite its rugged capabilities, the Crosstrek Hybrid's acceleration was underwhelming, and the added weight from the hybrid components affected its handling. However, it achieved an EPA rating of 90 MPGe and a combined 35 mpg on gas.

The 2020 Subaru Ascent, powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, delivered 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. It provided good acceleration, but its fuel economy fell short of expectations, averaging 18.9 mpg during testing. The Ascent's handling was not particularly sporty, with its suspension struggling on undulating surfaces. The CVT, while decent, sometimes resulted in uneven power delivery. Despite these drawbacks, the Ascent excelled in off-road conditions, thanks to its AWD system, X-Mode, and 8.7 inches of ground clearance.

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid's interior layout was similar to the conventional model, with an electronic emergency brake replacing the handbrake. This allowed for a more spacious center console. The driving position was upright, providing a commanding view, and the rear seat offered decent space even for taller passengers. However, the cargo area was reduced to 41 cubic feet due to the battery pack, compared to 55 cubic feet in the gas-powered version.

The 2020 Subaru Ascent offered comfort and space, especially in the Touring trim. The front seats were heated and ventilated, with a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. The second-row captain’s chairs provided flexibility, sliding to maximize legroom or third-row access. The third-row was accessible and comfortable for short trips, with features like large side windows and overhead air-conditioning vents. The Ascent offered 17.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 86 cubic feet with seats folded, making it practical for families.

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid came with Subaru’s premium Starlink infotainment system, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, with large icons and a sensible menu layout. A unique multi-information display atop the dash provided useful data like fuel economy and hybrid system status, controlled via a steering wheel button.

The 2020 Subaru Ascent also featured the Starlink infotainment system, with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Premium trim added an 8-inch touchscreen, text-messaging capability, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The Touring trim offered a high-resolution screen with navigation. While the voice-control system was outdated, the Harman Kardon speakers delivered excellent sound quality. The Ascent included USB ports in all three rows and a PIN Code Vehicle Access system for active lifestyles.

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid came standard with Subaru’s EyeSight suite, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. It also featured adaptive high beams, blind-spot detection, and reverse automatic braking. EyeSight provided semi-autonomous highway driving, enhancing safety and awareness.

The 2020 Subaru Ascent, built on Subaru’s global platform, earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. It included EyeSight with adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Premium trim added blind-spot monitoring, while Limited included LED steering-responsive headlights. The Ascent also featured a rear-seat reminder system and Starlink Safety Plus connected services, enhancing safety and security.