--- title: "Subaru Reveals Next-Gen Hybrid Powertrain Coming to Crosstrek and Forester" date: "2024-10-17" modified: "2024-10-17" authors: - name: "Nico DeMattia" job_title: "Contributing Writer" link: "https://www.thedrive.com/authors/nico-demattia" url: "https://www.thedrive.com/news/subaru-reveals-next-gen-hybrid-powertrain-coming-to-crosstrek-and-forester" categories: - "News" - "News by Brand" - "Subaru News" tags: - "Crosstrek" - "hybrid" - "Subaru" --- # Subaru Reveals Next-Gen Hybrid Powertrain Coming to Crosstrek and Forester ![]() *Subaru* Subaru no longer sells a hybrid in the United States now that the Crosstrek Hybrid is gone. That’s an issue it needs to rectify if it wants to compete in today’s electrified market, which is why the new [Subaru]() Crosstrek and Forester will be getting a new battery-assisted powertrain. Interestingly, Subaru is calling it a "strong-hybrid" or S:HEV. I admit, it’s my first time hearing that one too. *[Automotive News]()* reports that the strong-hybrid system will continue using Subaru's classic boxer four-cylinder layout, mounted longitudinally with all-wheel drive. Engine displacement is up from the previous 2.0-liter mild hybrid, now at 2.5 liters. It makes 158 horsepower on its own and pairs with an 88-kilowatt electric motor, which is a lot more powerful than the former 143 hp and 10-kW combo. Battery size is also increased from .6 kilowatt-hours to 1 kWh. Combined output hasn't been specified yet, but Subaru says it slashes the old hybrid's zero to 60 time by 2.1 seconds. “We have selected a powerful engine and a powerful drive motor for this strong-hybrid system,” said Shogo Oki, manager of Subaru’s Engineering Division, during a tech briefing. “It generates a driving performance strong enough to compete in the North American market.” Subaru's hybrid won't be a plug-in system but will instead switch the motor and engine on or off as needed. Like many hybrids, Subaru's will turn the engine off during low-speed driving, using just the electric motor to drive the car. According to Subaru, this new setup helps the Japanese-market [Crosstrek]() achieve 621 miles of driving range—about 50 percent more than before, thanks in part to a larger fuel tank that's roughly 17 gallons. ![]() **Subaru** Hybrid Crosstrek and [Forester]() customers will also be able to charge devices and small appliances using the battery. Things like portable refrigerators, electric kettles, and electric griddles can be plugged into the trunk of the car, which is helpful for camping or whatever other outdoorsy activities Subaru owners love. The automaker clearly knows its target audience. It’s also helpful in a power outage. The Japanese market Crosstrek is getting the hybrid system before the end of this year and the Forester will follow in April 2025. When either hybrid might come to the U.S. is still to be announced. *Got tips? Send 'em to tips@thedrive.com* ## Author Nico is a writer and reviewer from New Jersey who probably thinks he’s a lot funnier than he actually is. His love of cars began when he was just a kid playing Gran Turismo 3, grinding out enough race wins with a Mazda Miata to save up for an in-game RUF 911. That passion for small, lightweight sports cars drove his desire to learn more about the industry, get his hands on as many cars as he could, and bring those experiences to life on the page. He cut his teeth writing about BMWs, Volkswagens, and Audis, mostly, and has owned far too many of each. He’s on his fourth 3 Series sedan, but all of his old, cheap German cars have forced him to learn more about car maintenance than his mechanical capability can handle. Too many late nights have been spent scrambling to get a car running by morning so he could get to work. For some reason, he never seems to learn that old Bimmers probably aren’t the best daily drivers. But he loves more than just old German cars. He’ll gladly drive and discuss anything with four (or even three) wheels. Cars aren’t his only passions, though. Nico is also a big nerd and loves movies, video games, comic books, and cares far too much about the New York Giants. So don’t be surprised if you see football references or dumb, obscure movie quotes in any of his car reviews. ### Author social links [Instagram]() [LinkedIn]()