Subaru Keeps It Simple With The New Forester Hybrid

Keep it simple.

You've heard the term "Keep It Simple Stupid" (KISS). In line with the customer-centric approach, Subaru Corporation is simplifying the all-new next-generation Forester Hybrid. This decision was not made in isolation but after careful consideration of customer feedback, especially after the unsuccessful Crosstrek Plug-In Hybrid. Here's why.

A WardsAuto report says, "Automakers are asking themselves whether it is worth it to invest a lot in plug-in hybrid-electric vehicles (PHEVs) or bring out more hybrid-electric vehicles (HEVs) while consumers take more time to adopt battery-electric vehicles and public charging infrastructure builds out."

Why did the Crosstrek PHEV fail? 

There were several reasons why the Crosstrek PHEV was not a success.

• The price was too high
• There was limited availability
• Limited EV range (17 miles)
• The customer did not use the plug-in feature

Subaru made the right decision to drop the Crosstrek PHEV. Now, more automakers question whether they should bring out new plug-in models or use standard hybrid technology. Subaru has chosen the standard hybrid tech, with the latest Subaru Forester Hybrid coming next year. Read about the new Subaru hybrid tech in my report here. 

The report says Subaru's decision to bypass plug-in hybrid vehicles has to do with the very low usage rate for recharging the battery on Subaru's now-discontinued Crosstrek.

Based on experience, automakers like Subaru have been frustrated over PHEV usage. "The common refrain is that customers paid a premium to buy one to secure federal and state tax credits or to gain access to HOV lanes, but then didn't charge them with any regularity, and so did not get the benefit of driving locally – under 30-40 miles per day – on electric-only power," says Wards Auto.

PHEVs leave customers confused.

The report says some consumers expressed confusion over fueling a vehicle with gasoline and plugging it into a charger. Toyota executives have even said that consumers regularly ask the company and dealers where an HEV gets plugged in after 25 years of selling hybrid cars, never mind questions about a PHEV.

A U.S. Department of Energy study in 2021 showed that about 20 percent of PHEV owners charge their vehicles less than once per week. They often relied primarily on the gasoline engine, reducing the potential environmental benefits of the PHEV. A J.D. Power study found about 20 percent of PHEV owners charge their vehicles less than once per week.

Subaru's feedback from customers.

Subaru received feedback from current Crosstrek Plug-In Hybrid model customers who said they didn't use the plug-in benefit. So, Subaru will offer its new hybrid models with lower-cost, standard hybrid options. 

Subaru will offer three new hybrid and possibly four hybrid vehicles by 2028. 

WardsAuto says, "Subaru, for example, has decided to offer at least three Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) by 2028: the Forester, Crosstrek, and Outback. According to company sources, Subaru Corp., 20 percent owned by Toyota, has delayed a decision on whether to make the Ascent SUV an HEV or Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) until after this November's elections."

There are additional reasons why Subaru chose a standard hybrid powertrain over a plug-in technology for its next-generation hybrid SUVs. 

The conventional hybrid does not require an external charging source. The PHEV does need to be "plugged in" to take advantage of the hybrid fuel efficiency.

There are three reasons why Subaru chose the standard hybrid technology. 

1. There is a significantly lower upfront cost for the customer when purchasing the hybrid vehicle.

2. It's more convenient because you don't have to recharge the battery to use electric power. 

3. It's much easier for the customer to transition from a gas-engine vehicle to a hybrid model. You drive the hybrid vehicle and take advantage of the improved fuel efficiency.

When will the new Forester Hybrid be available for customers?

The next-generation Forester hybrid will arrive late next summer, 2025.

An all-new Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid will be coming soon after the Forester Hybrid. The Crosstrek is not a plug-in hybrid; it will also have a standard hybrid powertrain similar to the Forester. 

When will the Crosstrek Hybrid be available for customers? 

The new Crosstrek Hybrid will likely arrive in North America in late 2026 or early 2027. 

The next-generation Subaru Outback Hybrid is coming later. 

The redesigned Subaru Outback will likely see a hybrid trim level after the Crosstrek. It will come with the next-generation Outback remodel launch in 2026. The new Outback will also have a standard hybrid powertrain similar to the Forester and Crosstrek technology.

When will the Outback Hybrid make its U.S. launch? 

The new Outback Hybrid should be available in 2027 or 2028 after the launch of the latest next-generation 2026 model year in North America. 

The Ascent could be a hybrid or a new battery electric vehicle 3-Row SUV—more details to come. Stay tuned. 

Three and possibly four new Subaru Hybrid models are coming from its existing SUV lineup by 2028. Read more in my report here. 

Each with unique features and specifications that cater to different customer needs and preferences. These new models represent a significant step forward in Subaru's commitment to providing innovative and sustainable mobility solutions.

Will you wait for one of the new hybrid trims? If so, click the red Add New Comment link below and let us know.

I am Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Writer 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: Tucson Subaru