The Crosstrek is basically an Impreza hatchback with a higher ride height, added body cladding, and large wheels that are intended to give it a more rugged look.
The regular Crosstrek's 148-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine helps it deliver a frugal 26 mpg overall, which makes it among the most fuel-efficient SUVs in the class. But this compact vehicle doesn't provide as much cargo room as most small SUVs. And it's loud inside, especially when you accelerate and the continuously variable transmission gears down and revs up the coarse engine.
For those looking for even better gas mileage, Subaru introduced a hybrid version in 2014. But in our testing, we averaged only 2 mpg more -- 28 overall -- than in the regular Crosstrek. For the $3,000 bump over the Crosstrek Premium we previously tested, we don't think it's any bargain. The hybrid has been discontinued for 2017.
Moreover, this is a half-hearted hybrid. When we applied the gas pedal gingerly, we managed to creep up to 20 mph on electric power, but only if the outside temperature was above 50° F and weren't running the heat or air conditioner. And this hybrid isn't particularly refined. As with others, a start/stop system shuts off the engine when you come to a stop, but it restarts with a shudder when you're ready to go again. In addition, the drivetrain sometimes takes a second to sort out what to do and how to route power at a particular moment, bumping and lurching as it dithers.
The hybrid does provide some advantages in drivability over the regular Crosstrek. For example, the added midrange torque helps reduce engine noise, and the ride is more compliant and a bit more comfortable.
Inside, the Crosstrek's cabin is sensible, comfortable, and highly adaptable. But if its body styling says it's ready for anything, the interior comes across like a Hanes T-shirt: plain vanilla. The rear seats are spacious for a small car, and the modest-sized cargo area behind them has plastic sides and a rubber mat, which is handy for holding wet, muddy gear. Fortunately, in the hybrid, the motor and battery don't protrude into the Crosstrek's limited cargo area.
The basic radio and climate controls are among the simplest on the market. Updates for 2015 dramatically improved connectivity and infotainment, thanks to a standard touch-screen audio system that's easy to use.
In typical Subaru form, all-wheel drive is standard on both the basic and hybrid Crosstreks, and its eight inches of ground clearance (more than many real SUVs), allow this Subaru to tackle deeply rutted muddy roads and other moderate off-road conditions. But if scrambling over ditches isn't part of your daily cross-training regimen, the Crosstrek may not be such a good choice.
For most buyers, we think the regular Impreza Sport hatchback makes more sense. The interior is nearly identical, but the driving experience is much better: It rides and handles better, isn't as noisy, and costs less than the non-hybrid Crosstrek.