2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid vs 2026 Lexus NX

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid continued the evolutionary design improvements that Subaru had been implementing since the model's inception. The third-generation Crosstrek maintained the aesthetic appeal that set it apart from other Subaru models. The 2026 version carried forward the changes from 2024, featuring new sheet metal and chassis construction. The most noticeable update was the front fascia, where a frameless grille with a curved wing bar created a visual connection with the headlights, giving the car a distinctive smile. The aerodynamic air inlets and outlets integrated into the black plastic cladding around the wheel arches were a thoughtful touch, enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing road noise. Inside, the Crosstrek Hybrid offered a balance of rugged utility and refined comfort, with a straightforward design that prioritized function. The cabin featured soft-touch surfaces and durable plastics, with gray StarTex seats accented by orange contrast stitching. The Limited Hybrid trim added upscale touches like chrome-trimmed power window switches and a heated steering wheel.

The 2026 Lexus NX, despite being a few years into its second generation, retained a fresh appearance. The design elements, including chunky fenders, integrated LED daytime running lights, and the spindle grille, were well-integrated, offering a refined look compared to some of its competitors. The NX's design team successfully refined the existing design, making the oversized grille and LED DRLs appear intentional rather than an afterthought. For 2026, the NX was available in various powertrain options, including non-hybrid, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid models, with trim levels ranging from base to F Sport Handling. The F Sport Handling grade added performance-oriented features like adaptive dampers and black 20-inch wheels. Despite the extroverted styling, Lexus maintained its brand equity, although the base NX 350 fell short of luxury expectations. The F Sport Handling interior, with its sport seats and aluminum pedals, didn't quite elevate the experience, while the NX 350 Luxury grade offered more luxurious features like leather upholstery and heated and ventilated front seats.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid came standard with all-wheel drive and a continuously variable transmission. The hybrid model was powered by a 2.5-liter Atkinson/Miller-cycle 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 quicker and smoother acceleration compared to the gas-only version. The hybrid system utilized two motor-generators, one for engine start/stop and battery charging, and the other as a drive motor and for regenerative braking. During a test drive, the Crosstrek Hybrid achieved 31 miles per gallon, slightly below the EPA's estimate of 36 mpg. The Crosstrek's mechanical AWD system provided better capability on variable terrain compared to electric AWD systems, and the X-Mode traction management system offered specific settings for different conditions. The steering feel was light but precise, thanks to a revised dual-pinion steering rack, and the vehicle exhibited less body lean than previous models.

The 2026 Lexus NX offered a variety of powertrain options, but the standard hardware in the NX 350 F Sport test car was underwhelming. The turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine produced 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Despite a quoted 0-60 mph time of 6.6 seconds, the transmission's lethargy made achieving this difficult. The NX 350h hybrid and NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid models offered more compelling performance on paper, with the latter delivering 304 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of 6 seconds. However, the F Sport Handling upgrade's adaptive dampers were too firm, resulting in uncomfortable ride quality and an unengaging driving experience. The NX's steering was lifeless, and the ride quality was poor, detracting from Lexus' reputation for comfort and refinement.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid was Subaru's third attempt at a hybrid model, and it appeared to be the best yet. It offered more horsepower and cargo space than previous versions, with a cargo volume of 18.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 50.6 cubic feet with the rear row folded. The gas tank remained a generous 16.6 gallons, allowing for an impressive range of 597 miles between fill-ups. The Crosstrek Hybrid also provided ample rear-seat space, with 36.7 inches of legroom, surpassing competitors like the Corolla Cross Hybrid. However, front storage was limited, with a small tray for wireless charging and two cupholders.

The 2026 Lexus NX offered competitive passenger space for a compact luxury SUV, but with some compromises. Rear-seat headroom was comparable to rivals, but legroom was slightly less generous. Front-seat legroom was on par with some competitors, but headroom was limited, and outward visibility was hindered by the deep dashboard and large mirrors. The F Sport Handling spec included sport seats with extra bolstering, which were comfortable but unnecessary given the NX's performance limitations. Cargo space measured 22.7 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 56.3 cubic feet with them folded, trailing behind competitors. The NX's towing capacity was also limited to 2,000 pounds.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid came with an 11.6-inch touchscreen as standard, but the infotainment system was not competitive with those in the Kia Niro Hybrid or Hyundai Kona. The software was slow, and the screen was a fingerprint magnet. Many controls were touchscreen-based, which was frustrating. However, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, and the Limited Hybrid trim featured a Harman Kardon stereo and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster.

The 2026 Lexus NX featured a 9.8-inch infotainment touchscreen on base and Premium trims, with a 14-inch display optional on Premium and standard on higher trims. All models included a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and six USB ports. Additional tech features required data connectivity packages with subscription fees. The 14-inch touchscreen was well-placed, but fan speed adjustment was awkward. The voice recognition system was helpful but had limitations. The instrument cluster efficiently presented information, but the design was reminiscent of older analog displays.

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 did not earn a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS due to lower scores in certain crash tests. The 2026 model had not yet been rated by either organization.

The 2026 Lexus NX came with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 suite, which included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assist, and more. Additional features like park assist and a 360-degree camera system were available. The NX was named a 2025 Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, missing the highest award due to an "Acceptable" score in one crash test. The NHTSA had not yet rated the current-generation NX.