Subaru of America revealed on the 2026 Crosstrek, unveiling a lineup that reflects the automaker’s continued focus on all-weather versatility, advanced safety technology, and now, enhanced electrification. The third-generation crossover enters the new model year with more standard equipment across trims, increased power in base models, and a significant milestone: the introduction of the next-generation Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid.
Arriving at retailers nationwide this fall, the 2026 Crosstrek family comprises a full roster of seven trim levels—Base, Premium, Sport, Sport Hybrid, Limited, Limited Hybrid, and Wilderness. Across the board, the Crosstrek retains its hallmark Subaru DNA, with standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, the company’s signature BOXER® engine design, and a renewed emphasis on safety and driver-focused amenities.
Yet, it is the all-new hybrid model that is likely to generate the most attention, signaling Subaru’s investment in a greener future—without compromising the brand’s rugged identity.
A Familiar Shape, Electrified From Within
At the heart of the 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid is a new series-parallel hybrid system, pairing Subaru’s revised 2.5-liter Atkinson/Miller-cycle BOXER® engine with electric motors and a high-capacity lithium-ion battery. Together, the system produces 194 horsepower, promising improved fuel economy and extended driving range over previous iterations. Unlike some hybrid systems that sacrifice space or performance, Subaru’s new setup integrates cleanly into the existing platform, preserving the Crosstrek’s 8.7 inches of ground clearance and trail-ready demeanor.
Hybrid power is available in two trims: Sport Hybrid ($33,995 MSRP) and Limited Hybrid ($34,995 MSRP), the latter topping the range with luxury appointments and exclusive features, including a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, navigation, and an upgraded Harman Kardon® audio system.
Visually, the hybrid variants distinguish themselves with unique 18-inch alloy wheels, gray StarTex® upholstery with orange stitching, and, for an extra $395, exclusive exterior paint options like Citron Yellow Pearl and Sand Dune Pearl.
The hybrid models will be built in Gunma, Japan, while the gasoline-only Crosstreks continue to be manufactured at Subaru’s plant in Lafayette, Indiana.
Power and Refinement Across the Range
In a move that underscores Subaru’s confidence in the larger engine’s performance, the once-optional 2.5-liter engine—making 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque—is now standard on all Crosstrek trims, including the Base model, which starts at $26,995 (or $28,415 including destination). This marks a significant upgrade from the outgoing base powertrain and aligns the entry-level Crosstrek more closely with its higher-tier siblings.
For those seeking adventure-readiness right out of the box, the Crosstrek Wilderness continues to anchor the lineup with rugged appeal. With a raised suspension yielding 9.3 inches of ground clearance, all-terrain Yokohama GEOLANDAR® tires, upgraded cooling and drivetrain components, and a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds—more than double that of other trims—the Wilderness starts at $33,795. Copper accenting and unique interior materials like StarTex® upholstery give it a distinctive edge aimed at weekend warriors.
Safety and Technology Take Center Stage
Regardless of trim, every 2026 Crosstrek is equipped with Subaru’s EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology. This comprehensive suite includes adaptive cruise control with lane centering, pre-collision braking, lane departure warning, and lane keep assist. Models equipped with blind-spot detection also benefit from automatic emergency steering—a feature designed to help the driver avoid frontal collisions at speeds under 50 mph.
Newly standard across the board are rear seat side airbags and Auto Vehicle Shut Down, which turns off the engine if the vehicle sits idling for over 30 minutes. A heated steering wheel, once the domain of luxury SUVs, now comes standard on Limited, Limited Hybrid, and Wilderness trims.
DriverFocus®, Subaru’s camera-based distraction mitigation system, becomes standard equipment on Limited and Limited Hybrid trims for 2026. This system monitors the driver’s attention, offering alerts when signs of drowsiness or distraction are detected—a nod to the increasing importance of passive safety in the modern SUV landscape.
Connectivity Meets Comfort
Inside, the 2026 Crosstrek evolves with a new tiered infotainment approach. Base models feature dual 7-inch touchscreens, while Premium trims and above get the brand’s 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus display. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ are standard on Premium and higher, and a wireless phone charger appears beginning with the Sport trim.
Higher trims also benefit from increased convenience features like dual-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable driver’s seats, LED fog lights, keyless access with push-button start, and raised roof rails. Power moonroofs and premium audio systems are available in bundled option packages.
Of particular note is the redesigned interior layout. Across trims, Subaru has emphasized usability and durability. Cloth seats with contrast stitching are standard on Sport models, while the Limited trim upgrades to perforated leather, complete with chrome interior accents and orange contrast detailing.
Competitive Pricing Strategy
While industry-wide vehicle prices continue to climb, Subaru has managed to keep the 2026 Crosstrek competitively priced. Even well-equipped trims like the Sport Hybrid and Wilderness hover in the mid-$30,000 range before destination fees, making them accessible to a broad audience looking for fuel-efficient versatility and off-road capability in one package.
Here’s how the pricing breaks down:
| Trim | Starting MSRP | MSRP with Destination |
|---|---|---|
| Crosstrek Base | $26,995 | $28,415 |
| Crosstrek Premium | $27,995 | $29,415 |
| Crosstrek Sport | $30,625 | $32,045 |
| Crosstrek Sport Hybrid | $33,995 | $35,415 |
| Crosstrek Limited | $32,995 | $34,415 |
| Crosstrek Limited Hybrid | $34,995 | $36,415 |
| Crosstrek Wilderness | $33,795 | $35,215 |
Option packages range from $1,600 to $2,270, adding features such as a 360-degree camera system, heated seats, moonroof, and advanced audio upgrades. Destination and delivery charges are $1,420 for most states and $1,570 for Alaska.
Looking Ahead
With the 2026 Crosstrek, Subaru delivers a compelling mix of performance, safety, and technology in a familiar yet evolving package. The introduction of the next-generation hybrid system sets a tone for what’s to come from the automaker’s electrification roadmap, while ensuring that loyal Crosstrek drivers—many of whom prize practicality, reliability, and light off-road capability—won’t need to compromise in making the transition.
As consumer demand for small crossovers and electrified drivetrains continues to grow, Subaru’s latest offering is well-positioned to compete not only with traditional rivals like the Honda HR-V and Toyota Corolla Cross, but also with emerging hybrid models across the industry.
Deliveries for the 2026 Crosstrek range begin this fall.