2025 Crosstrek to debut Subaru's "Strong Hybrid" system

Subaru struggled in developing its eBoxer technology in the past, but now things seem to be progressing better in terms of electrification for the Japanese brand.

After previewing its next-generation hybrid technology that was co-developed with Toyota, Subaru has now opened advance reservations for the Japanese market 2025 Crosstrek, which will feature the new Strong Hybrid or S:HEV system.

The Subaru S:HEV employs a series-parallel system that efficiently makes use of both the engine and electric motor as power sources depending on the driving conditions. The system utilizess a 2.5-liter boxer engine that puts out 160 PS and 209 Nm of torque, and an MC2 AC synchronous motor powered by a 1.1 kWh lithium ion battery that gives a max output of 119.6 PS and 270 Nm of torque.

Together with a 63-liter fuel tank, Subaru claims the 2025 Crosstrek S:HEV is capable of exceeding 1,000 km of range on a single tank of fuel. They also claim that the new hybrid system allows the Crosstrek to have 20% better fuel efficiency than the standard non hybrid version.

While the S:HEV system features additional components for the Crosstrek, the basic layout of Subaru’s symmetrical AWD remains the same – retaining its mechanically coupled front and rear axles using a propeller shaft.

Features-wise, the new S:HEV system replaces the tachometer in the gauge cluster with a meter that displays the hybrid system’s status. Furthermore, the hybrid system now gives the Crosstrek V2L (vehicle to load) capabilities with the addition of a 100V AC / 1500 W accessory outlet at the back, which can power electrical appliances such as portable refrigerators, electric kettles and auxiliary lights for outdoor use or emergencies.

The Subaru Crosstrek with the strong hybrid system will debut in Japan by December 2024. Other markets and other Subaru vehicle model applications of the S:HEV system could follow by 2025.