Topic: Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid To Go On Sale In November

[johngenx]

I agree.  Looking at the equipment list, the hybrid is actually not a bad buy.  If you're trying to keep the MSRP as low as possible and drive a CrossTrek, then it's not the choice, but if you're looking for a top model, I think I'd pick the hybrid.

The system is super simple.  Most of the Subaru driveline is the same as the other models.

[Nuttygent]

  All I want is an Impreza with more zip, say the 2.5L from the Forester and this is what they offer. I rented the 14' Forester for a week on Vancouver island which got very fuel economy, it made me yearn for a lighter Impreza with same engine and a 6 speed manual. Like Mazda, Subaru should offer buyers a choice of 2 engines.

[redman]

Confirmed in house hybrid system. First Test http://www.edmunds.com/subaru/xv-crosstrek/2014/road-test.html

"Subaru developed its hybrid system in-house and in doing so kept things relatively simple. A 13.4-horsepower electric motor was engineered into the tail end of the company's continuously variable transmission (CVT), while a 0.55-kWh nickel-metal hydride battery finds its way into the trunk floor. Though a lithium-ion battery would have been much smaller and lighter, Subaru brass cite cost as an issue."

"Perhaps the most surprising aspect of this hybrid is its fuel economy, and not in a good way, unfortunately. The hybrid manages 31 mpg combined (29 city/33 highway), a gain of just 3 mpg over the standard XV Crosstrek. With its $3,000 price premium (the hybrid starts at $26,820 with destination) the hybrid's payback period based on fuel savings pencils out to more than 15 years."

[Snowman]

Confirmed in house hybrid system. First Test http://www.edmunds.com/subaru/xv-crosstrek/2014/road-test.html

"Subaru developed its hybrid system in-house and in doing so kept things relatively simple. A 13.4-horsepower electric motor was engineered into the tail end of the company's continuously variable transmission (CVT), while a 0.55-kWh nickel-metal hydride battery finds its way into the trunk floor. Though a lithium-ion battery would have been much smaller and lighter, Subaru brass cite cost as an issue."

"Perhaps the most surprising aspect of this hybrid is its fuel economy, and not in a good way, unfortunately. The hybrid manages 31 mpg combined (29 city/33 highway), a gain of just 3 mpg over the standard XV Crosstrek. With its $3,000 price premium (the hybrid starts at $26,820 with destination) the hybrid's payback period based on fuel savings pencils out to more than 15 years."

15 years  not worth the premium over the gas only model. Subaru won't sell many of these without a discount.

[Fobroader]

Confirmed in house hybrid system. First Test http://www.edmunds.com/subaru/xv-crosstrek/2014/road-test.html

"Subaru developed its hybrid system in-house and in doing so kept things relatively simple. A 13.4-horsepower electric motor was engineered into the tail end of the company's continuously variable transmission (CVT), while a 0.55-kWh nickel-metal hydride battery finds its way into the trunk floor. Though a lithium-ion battery would have been much smaller and lighter, Subaru brass cite cost as an issue."

"Perhaps the most surprising aspect of this hybrid is its fuel economy, and not in a good way, unfortunately. The hybrid manages 31 mpg combined (29 city/33 highway), a gain of just 3 mpg over the standard XV Crosstrek. With its $3,000 price premium (the hybrid starts at $26,820 with destination) the hybrid's payback period based on fuel savings pencils out to more than 15 years."

15 years?!?!?!?!?!?  Uhh yeah, no.

[Black Hatch]

But if gas prices go up...
How about in Canada with higher gas prices, is it still 15 years?

[Fobroader]

But if gas prices go up...
How about in Canada with higher gas prices, is it still 15 years?

$3K for a car that pretty well get the same mileage....thats a long period of time, Id rather get extra options on the regular Crosstrek.

[Sir Osis of Liver]

The big difference is in city fuel consumption 9.4L/100km versus 8.1L/100km. The highway mileage remains the same at 7.1L/100km.

I likely would have got one had I know they were in the pipeline. I'm not terribly interested in the payback period, but in reducing fuel consumption. The extra low end torque would have been a bonus.

[PJ]

This car is for people who like the regular version but do lots if stop and go driving.  Then it makes sense.