Hybrids - The Wave Of The Present, Did Subaru Miss It?

Catching The Wave 

If you aren't ready to make the leap and buy an all-electric vehicle, you aren't alone. New car buyers are embracing hybrids as a comfortable and relevant alternative to gas-powered vehicles. 

Subaru is about to catch the hybrid wave with its first hybrid model since the discontinued Crosstrek hybrid. This next-generation Forester Hybrid compact SUV, set to make its U.S. dealer launch next year, promises to be a game-changer. For more detailed insights, you can read my report here.

It's a good move for Subaru because Hybrid vehicles, unlike electric cars, are not subject to 'range anxiety'-the fear of running out of power before reaching a charging station. This, along with the absence of charging infrastructure limitations and the drop in the value of electric cars, makes hybrids a more practical choice for many consumers. 

Is Subaru too late for the hybrid party?

According to industry expert Cloud Theory, it is clear that while hybrids will serve as a bridge to a more mature electric vehicle future, they are also acting as the 'wave of the present'. Cloud Theory, a renowned automotive industry analyst, has been at the forefront of predicting industry trends.

Imagine if Subaru had a new 2025 Forester compact SUV hybrid, Outback midsize SUV Hybrid, Crosstrek subcompact SUV Hybrid, and Ascent 3-Row family hauler Hybrid now?

They could be reaping the benefit of the current automotive climate. 

Cloud Theory has written extensively about the electric vehicle market, notably in its comprehensive eBook "Charging Ahead: Hybrids Come into Sharper Focus as EV Aspirations Meet Reality." 

The report provides an in-depth analysis of how changes in regulatory requirements and timelines have significantly impacted OEMs' planning for and investment in their vehicle lineups. 

Cloud Theory says, "Those regulatory shifts not only lowered 2032 EV production targets from 67% to 35% but also created a pathway for hybrid vehicles to play a more prominent role in the industry's eco-friendly future."

Hybrids are already well entrenched in many OEM portfolios, and others like Subaru Corporation are moving to bolster their offerings in response to these new parameters. 

Here's The Proof

Cloud Theory data reveals that in the latest 30 days, hybrid vehicles have significantly higher turn rates, lower days-to-move timeframes, and a better Inventory Efficiency Index score (which measures whether a make, model, or fuel type is getting its fair market share given its relative inventory position in the marketplace) than gas-powered and electric vehicles.

Toyota is the leader in hybrid technology. Toyota made a bold move, as evidenced by the Hybrid-only 2025 Camry sedan. It's the only Camry trim level available now for customers. 

Toyota's Newsroom website says, "Industry-leading hybrid technology has become synonymous with the Toyota brand, and the ninth-generation Camry brings its A-game." 

Subaru rides Toyota’s wave.

Subaru is tapping into Toyota's extensive experience and hybrid technology, and it will benefit from the giant automaker's vast resources. Subaru is a small player, only one-tenth the size of Toyota. So, it's wise for them to do it. 

The all-new next-generation Forester Hybrid will use a hybrid system developed with Toyota. Some details have emerged. Subaru's chief engineer recently talked about its new hybrid tech. You can read my report here.

The Hybrid wave surprised Ford

Ford CEO Jim Farley told Automotive News in an article, "A year ago, we weren't covering the cost premium for hybrids with the price that customers paid us. We are now. Customers are voting. They like these in-between solutions."

Subaru is behind the hybrid curve now, but they can still catch it. 

The Subaru Forester Hybrid will catch the wave as electric vehicles have cooled significantly. It's not just one wave Subaru has missed, and then it's gone. The Hybrid wave will likely continue for many years.

Subaru's concern is whether it can launch a new Outback Hybrid, Crosstrek Hybrid, or Ascent Hybrid quickly enough.

The Good News 

The good news is that Subaru can now build those hybrid trim levels in its U.S. plant in Lafayette, Indiana. Read my report about Forester production moving from Japan to Subaru of Indiana Automotive. 

Those Subaru hybrid models are at least two years away. The demand for hybrids will continue. 

Cloud Theory's data reveals a promising trend-the hybrid Inventory Efficiency Index score of 137 indicates a strong and sustained demand for hybrids. This is a clear indication that hybrids are not just a passing trend but a significant player in the current automotive landscape.

Cloud Theory says, "And the good news is that, as evidenced by the hybrid Inventory Efficiency Index score of 137, there is excess demand to soak up that supply growth. A wave of the present, indeed."

Your insights could shape future discussions on the hybrid market.

Subaru is about to launch its new Forester Hybrid compact SUV. We're interested to know your thoughts. Would you be more likely to buy a Forester with a hybrid trim level? Click the red 'Add New Comment' link below and let us know. 

I am Denis Flierl, a top Torque News reporter since 2012. I’ve invested over 13 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role, working with every major car brand. I am an experienced Rocky Mountain Automotive Press member. You'll find my expert Subaru analysis here. Follow me on my X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

Photo credit: Subaru