The Subaru CrossTek hybrid does not have a hybrid battery and can not self propel itself in electric mode. A huge reason why it is cheaper and only rated 2 mpg greater than the non-hybrid version.

 

This is incorrect, the Crosstrek XV Hybrid is a full hybrid with an AC drive motor, supplying 13hp and 48 ft-lbs of torque more than the standard XV Crosstrek. Subaru even had to delete the spare tire on the hybrid to make room for the (small) 100V, 13.5kW NiMH traction battery. Full specs are available on Subaru's media website.


I think it's interesting that for the Crosstrek the hybrid is about a $3000 option. The FEH was a $4000+ upcharge. But for the RAV4 it's less than $1000 over the similar gas model.

 

You are correct and I posted this in an attempt to see if you would mention Subaru is bringing out a PHEV in 2018 based upon the Toyota PHEV platform. This information came from the President of Fuji (owner of Subaru). Toyota owns a portion of Fuji. Of course Subaru is also bringing out direction injection, cylinder deactivation and other needed improvements that all auto manufactures are doing to meet and exceed fuel and emission efficiency standards.

The current Crosstrek mild hybrid system is too small and weak for my preference. I would likely change my thoughts in 2018 depending the exact specifics of their new vehicle.

 

A friend has had enough of his Legacy wagon, and is considering alternatives. It would be used on rough back roads in winter and summer, as my FEH is. He hadn't considered an FEH until he saw mine. Compared to the Crosstrek hybrid, which he was looking at, the FEH is far bigger, has better clearance, similar mileage, and since it would be used, would cost vastly less than a newer Subaru. I'll be extremely interested to see what he decides.