2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid AWD: The Brand’s First Hybrid

Highlights: The Subaru XV Crosstrek hybrid is the latest addition to the Subaru line up. It’s the brand’s first all-wheel drive hybrid.

Test vehicle’s MSRP: $26,820

Seating Capacity: 5 occupants

Standard Safety Features: all-wheel drive; ABS; rear camera; daytime running lights; traction control; front, side, driver’s knee and side airbags; daytime running lights; tire pressure monitoring system;  audible vehicle approach pedestrian alert system; foldable exterior mirrors with integrated turn signals; and an incline start assist system, which keeps the vehicle from rolling backward on an incline, when taking off



Standard Equipment (base model): 17-inch wheels; an automatic start/stop system; an electric motor; lithium battery; active grille shutters; raised roof rails; electric power assist system; rear roof spoiler; a raised hybrid suspension system; cargo cover; cargo area grocery bag hooks; front center sliding concealed armrest;  a rear center armrest with dual cup holders; driver’s manual height adjustable front seats; a tilt steering wheel; paddle shifters for the steering wheel; cloth seats; heated front seats; tinted rear privacy glass; electric power assist system; an automatic  a/c system; a remote keyless entry system; chrome exterior door handles; and an automatic on/off headlights

Other Trim Level:

Hybrid Touring

Standard Audio: a 6-speaker AM/FM with a CD player

Bluetooth Connectivity: Yes

iPod connectivity: Yes                                                                                                                                
Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 3 years or 36,000 miles

Powertrain Warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles

Hybrid Warranty: 8 years or 100,000 miles

Standard Engine/Horsepower: 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder/148-hp

Recommended Fuel: Regular

Standard Fuel Mileage: 29-city/33-hwy

Towing Capacity: 4,200 lbs

What’s New: The XV Crosstrek is the brand’s first hybrid. Its all-new for the 2014 model year.

Pros:  The Plasma Green XV Crosstrek boldly announced that there was something different about this Subaru. Indeed therewas. It was the brand’s first hybrid. This new environmentally friendly color from the automaker was created specifically for the hybrid.

Now while XVSubaru’s Crosstrek gasoline model is available with either an automatic or a manual transmission, the XV Crosstrek hybrid is available with an automatic transmission only. However, Subaru managed to slip in paddle shifters for those still yearning for a manual. 

Like every Subaru, the instrument panel offers just the basic gauges (speedometer, fuel, mileage and the blue hybrid info too) most of us need. The XV Crosstrek is a multitude of colors. The Plasma Green exterior color to the hybrid blue info center to the blacked-out alloy wheel on the Crosstrek adds a sporty flair to this crossover, making this vehicle a rainbow of lively colors. And unlike most crossovers, the Crosstrek offers an 8.7-inch ground clearance, which is great for off roading. 

The Crosstrek hybrid we reviewed is available in two trim levels. We had an opportunity to review the well-equipped base model. Conversely, for those seeking a navigation system, satellite radio, a power moonroof and leather seats, they should opt for the higher end Touring model, which stickers right at $30,000.

Furthermore, the versatile crossover can offer plenty of seating (and legroom) for up to five occupants -- depending on if the 60/40 rear seats are folded. Even with this being a hybrid, the XV Crosstrek still offers virtually the same amount of room as the gasoline only model.  In fact, with the rear seats folded down, the vehicle can carry up to three golf bags. Added to that, the rear cargo area offers a cargo cover, grocery hooks and a removable waterproof cargo tray.

Cons: Subaru’s latest entry lacked a push-button starter, automatic door locks and a standard satellite audio system. And we found the fuel-efficient 4-cylinder engine to be quite raspy, not as refined as what we would expect. Furthermore, it took a moment to figure how to use the quirky audio system in the XV Crosstrek.

Ironically, while hybrids are assumed to be more fuel-efficient, critics have found this not to be the case with the Subaru’s first hybrid. The city mileage only increases 4-mpg, when compared to a non hybrid, according to fueleconomy.gov. Hybrids usually have larger gains to justify the price difference. The XV Crosstrek hybrid also wears a slightly smaller fuel tank too when compared to the gasoline model.

Verdict: The XV Crosstrek would definitely be on our shopping list if we were in the market for an expressive, roomy, five passenger compact crossover, with loads of personality. While the hybrid is new to  the game and one of the first gasoline alternatives to offer an all-wheel drive system, buyers would be better off going with the non hybrid XV Crosstreak, which produces slightly lower mileage, but on average will shave about $3,000 off of the price tag.

Despite the hybrid not producing larger mileage gains, the Crosstrek continues to offer the versatility for driving in harsh winter weather or off-road driving. The Crosstrek is priced within reach of most of its non all-wheel drive competitors. The Crosstrek’s rough and tumble demeanor offers a sporty edge that is somewhat unexpected in a Subaru. 

And while most Subarus, with the exception of the 2015 Legacy, lacked such high tech features like lane-changing technology and a push-button keyless starter, they do provide non technical drivers with the basic user friendly features they have come to expect, without having to attend an extensive information session at a dealership. 

So, while the hybrid model may not be the right move for now. Its better to wait until Subaru can inch out more city driving miles. For now, Subaru should consider following Lincoln’s approach with their first hybrid, offering it at the same price as the gasoline model, although Lincoln’s hybrid produces way more city highway miles than its non hybrid model.