Hybrid Technology is Finally Coming to Subaru, Here’s What You Must Know

Hybrid vehicles are the answer to waning EV demand, isn’t that right? Not all automakers have one to offer yet. Subaru is on that list, but the good news is that things will change later in 2025 with not one but two new electrified models. Possibly a third, too—we’ll tell you about it at the end of this story.

Subaru’s hybrid technology has a name, e-Boxer, and it was officially unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show last month. What does it mean? Read on.

2025 Subaru Forester e-Boxer Hybrid

The Forester compact SUV will be the first to get the e-Boxer treatment. Set to launch this spring, it combines a newly developed 2.5-litre Atkinson-cycle flat-four engine and transmission with an electric motor generator and electric traction motor for efficient power. Of course, Subaru’s symmetrical full-time all-wheel drive system is also part of the equation, and mechanically coupled to the front and rear wheels.

In addition to quieter operation, the hybrid system boosts output to 194 hp, which is an extra 14 hp over conventionally powered Forester models, but not as much as what you get with other compact hybrid SUVs. Alas, fuel consumption figures have yet to be released. Cargo capacity is somehow not affected by the rear-mounted, 1.1kWh lithium-ion battery, which is great. Likewise, the gas tank is the same size in order to maximize range between fill-ups.

In Canada, the Forester e-Boxer Hybrid will be available exclusively in top-line Premier trim (customers in the U.S., meanwhile, will have a selection of four hybrid models). Pricing will be announced closer to launch, but expect it to cost a pretty penny—likely over $50,000 including freight and PDI.

2026 Subaru Crosstrek e-Boxer Hybrid

This one will launch in Canada in December of this year, again with a single trim level (Limited). It will go head-to-head with the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid and Kia Niro. Unlike the discontinued Crosstrek PHEV, it won’t be a plug-in hybrid this time.

The 2026 Crosstrek e-Boxer Hybrid will feature basically the same hybrid system as the larger Forester, combining a newly developed 2.5-litre boxer engine with an electric motor generator and electric traction motor, as well as a 1.1kWh lithium-ion battery. Again, total output will amount to 194 hp, which is just 12 hp more than the gas-only Crosstrek equipped with the 2.5-litre engine. It’s all handled by an electronically controlled CVT and mechanical AWD system.

What about fuel consumption? We don’t have the answer for now, but Subaru is promising substantial fuel savings. The 2.0-litre Crosstrek achieves a combined 8 L/100 km according to Natural Resources Canada, while 2.5-litre models achieve 8.1 L/100 km.

Outback is Next

As a final note, all gas-electric Forester and Crosstrek models destined for the Canadian market will be assembled in Japan. Subaru will complete its hybrid trio with the next-generation 2026 Outback, which will also offer e-Boxer technology. However, no details about this vehicle or its release date have been shared thus far.