2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid vs 2026 INFINITI QX60

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid continued the evolutionary improvements that Subaru had been making since the model's inception. The third-generation Crosstrek maintained its attractive design, with subtle updates that included a frameless grille and aerodynamic enhancements around the wheel arches. Inside, the Crosstrek Hybrid offered a balance of rugged utility and refined comfort, featuring durable materials and thoughtful design elements like the distinctive orange stitching on the StarTex seats. The cabin was straightforward, prioritizing function over flash, with upscale accents like chrome-trimmed power window switches and a heated steering wheel in the Limited Hybrid trim.

In contrast, the 2026 INFINITI QX60 was offered in multiple trims, with the Autograph trim showcasing a luxurious interior with premium materials. The exterior design was updated to align with the larger QX80, featuring a new grille and standard 20-inch wheels. Inside, the QX60 provided a range of seating configurations and high-end features like front-seat massage and a triple-zone climate control system. However, the driving position in the Autograph trim was less than ideal, and the third-row seats were tight for adults. Cargo space was limited behind the third row, but a large compartment under the load floor offered additional storage.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid was equipped with a 2.5-liter engine paired with a 118-hp traction motor, delivering a total system output of 194 horsepower. This made it the fastest Crosstrek to date, with improved acceleration and smoother performance compared to the gas-only version. The hybrid system utilized two motor-generators for engine start/stop functions and regenerative braking, contributing to its fuel efficiency. During testing, the Crosstrek Hybrid achieved 31 mpg, slightly below the EPA estimate of 36 mpg. The vehicle's AWD system and X-Mode traction management provided enhanced capability on variable terrain, although the steering feel remained light and somewhat disconnected.

The 2026 INFINITI QX60 featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine with variable-compression-ratio technology, producing 268 horsepower and 286 pound-feet of torque. This engine offered a balance of power and fuel economy, with an EPA rating of 24 mpg. However, the requirement for premium fuel diminished the cost-effectiveness of its fuel efficiency. The QX60's driving modes included Auto, Sport, Eco, Snow, and Tow, with Auto mode providing the smoothest and most refined experience. Despite its power, the QX60's AWD system lacked sophistication, and the suspension was too soft at higher speeds, leading to unwanted body motion and roll.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid improved upon its predecessors by offering more cargo space and maintaining a large gas tank. With 18.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and a total capacity of 50.6 cubic feet, it provided ample storage without the compromises of previous models. The rear-seat space was generous, with 36.7 inches of legroom, surpassing competitors like the Corolla Cross Hybrid. Up front, storage was limited, but the vehicle included practical features like a wireless charging pad and deep door pockets.

The 2026 INFINITI QX60 offered seven-passenger seating in the Pure and Luxe trims, while the Sport and Autograph trims featured second-row captain's chairs, reducing capacity to six. The front seats were heated and power-adjustable, with ventilated front and heated second-row seats available in higher trims. The Autograph trim included luxurious features like front-seat massage and Plasmacluster air purification. However, the driving position was less than ideal, and the third-row seats were cramped for adults. Cargo space was limited to 14.5 cubic feet behind the third row, but a large compartment under the load floor provided additional storage.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid came with an 11.6-inch touchscreen, but the infotainment system was less competitive compared to rivals. The software was slow, and the screen was prone to fingerprints. While wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, many controls were touchscreen-based, which could be frustrating. The Limited Hybrid trim featured a Harman Kardon stereo and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, but the navigation map was not compatible with Google Maps.

The 2026 INFINITI QX60 introduced a new Google Built-in infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, offering Google Assistant, Google Maps, and access to apps through the Google Play Store. The system was user-friendly, although Google Maps occasionally failed to load properly. The QX60 featured a Klipsch premium audio system, but the sound quality was not as satisfying as competitors' offerings. The vehicle also included a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.8-inch head-up display, and a camera-based digital rearview mirror.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid included Subaru's EyeSight Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, pre-collision braking, and automatic emergency braking. The 2025 model received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, but the IIHS did not award it a Top Safety Pick designation due to lower scores in crash tests. The 2026 model had not yet been rated by either organization.

The 2026 INFINITI QX60 came with standard driver-assistance features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Luxe trim added ProPilot Assist 1.1, with adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist. The Autograph trim offered ProPilot Assist 2.1 with hands-free driving capability, but the system had quirks and inconsistencies during testing. The NHTSA awarded the QX60 a five-star overall rating, while the IIHS had not yet released crash-test ratings.