Beneath the hood of the 2014 Subaru Xv Crosstrek Hybrid 2.0i Hybrid, the changes at first glance appear subtle compared to its gasoline-only sibling. However, a closer inspection reveals a prominent “Hybrid” badge adorning the Subaru Boxer engine cover and the presence of not one, but two lead-acid 12-volt batteries. These visual cues hint at the more significant engineering modifications lurking beneath the surface of Subaru’s inaugural foray into hybrid technology with the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid 2.0i Hybrid.
While Subaru promised enhanced fuel economy and improved torque from this 2014 XV Crosstrek Hybrid, real-world testing reveals a different story. This review dives deep into whether the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid 2.0i Hybrid truly delivers on its hybrid promise or if it leaves drivers questioning its purpose.
Hybrid Powertrain: Mild Assistance, Minimal Gains?
The core of the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid 2.0i Hybrid‘s powertrain is Subaru’s familiar 2.0-liter, horizontally opposed Boxer four-cylinder engine, paired with a Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT). This foundation mirrors the standard, non-hybrid XV Crosstrek. While lacking dedicated sport or eco driving modes, a manual mode offers drivers the option to simulate six virtual gears via paddle shifters – a feature that attempts to inject a sense of control into the inherently gearless CVT system. Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, a hallmark of the brand, distributes power to all four wheels, ensuring optimal traction in various conditions.
The hybrid element is introduced through a permanent magnet AC synchronous electric motor, contributing an additional 47.9 pound-feet of torque. This electric motor is energized by a nickel metal hydride (NiMH) traction battery positioned beneath the cargo floor. This battery, while adding hybrid capability, unfortunately reduces cargo space by approximately 0.8 cubic feet. The battery itself is replenished through regenerative braking and surplus energy generated by the gasoline engine.
An unusual aspect of the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid 2.0i Hybrid is the inclusion of two lead-acid 12-volt batteries under the hood. One functions as a conventional car battery, while the second is specifically dedicated to supporting the Auto Start-Stop system. This dual-battery setup hints at the complexities and perhaps some of the compromises within this early Subaru hybrid system.
The combined output of the system is rated at 160 horsepower and 163 pound-feet of torque. While this represents a modest increase in peak torque compared to the standard XV Crosstrek, the electric assist is designed to provide a more responsive feel across the power band. In theory, this should make the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid 2.0i Hybrid feel slightly more energetic than its non-hybrid counterpart, with peak torque arriving earlier in the rev range.
However, despite these technical specifications, the on-road experience of the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid 2.0i Hybrid doesn’t translate into a significant performance boost. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph feels leisurely, and any aspirations for sporty driving are quickly dampened by the characteristic “rubber-band” sensation of the CVT. While the underlying Impreza platform, on which the XV Crosstrek is based, is generally well-regarded, the hybrid version prioritizes efficiency over driving excitement.
Fuel Efficiency: Disappointing Real-World MPG
The core justification for choosing a hybrid vehicle often lies in its fuel efficiency. However, the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid 2.0i Hybrid underwhelms in this critical area. The EPA estimates for the hybrid are 29 mpg city, 33 mpg highway, and 31 mpg combined. While seemingly better than the standard XV Crosstrek with CVT, the improvement is marginal – only 3 mpg combined and 4 mpg city.
This modest gain in fuel economy translates to minimal real-world savings. According to EPA data, the annual fuel cost savings for the hybrid are estimated at a mere $200. Considering the approximately $5,000 price premium for the hybrid model, it would take an astonishing 25 years to recoup the extra investment through fuel savings alone.
Real-world testing further diminishes the appeal. During testing, the observed fuel economy averaged only 26.4 mpg over nearly 300 miles of careful, fuel-conscious driving. Even under optimal conditions, the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid 2.0i Hybrid struggled to approach its EPA estimates.
One of the reasons for the lackluster fuel economy is the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid 2.0i Hybrid‘s diminutive 0.55-kWh NiMH battery pack. In comparison, the Toyota Prius V boasts a 1.3-kWh battery, and the Ford C-Max features a 1.4-kWh pack. The XV Hybrid’s battery capacity is closer to that of the Chevrolet Malibu Eco, a mild hybrid sedan that was discontinued due to its negligible fuel economy advantage.
While the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid 2.0i Hybrid can operate in full electric mode at speeds up to 25 mph, achieving this requires an extremely delicate touch on the accelerator. Even with careful driving, the battery’s limited capacity means that EV mode is short-lived and the electric assist is often minimal, as the battery quickly depletes. In city driving and traffic, conditions where hybrids typically shine, the XV Hybrid often reverts to gasoline power, negating the potential fuel savings and essentially functioning like a heavier, less efficient non-hybrid vehicle.
The “Fuel Savings” display on the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid 2.0i Hybrid reveals the limited impact of the hybrid system. During the test week, the fuel saved due to engine shut-off during idling amounted to a mere 0.742 gallons, primarily attributed to the Start-Stop system. The engine restart, especially when the hybrid battery is low, can be noticeably rough, further detracting from the refined hybrid experience expected by consumers.
Technology and Interior: Basic and Functional
The dashboard technology in the base 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid 2.0i Hybrid is decidedly basic. A small, color multifunction display at the top of the dashboard provides information on fuel economy, hybrid system status, and all-wheel drive operation. Beneath this sits a rudimentary stereo system with a monochromatic two-line display.
The audio system includes a six-speaker setup, a single-CD slot, AM/FM radio, USB port with iPod control, Bluetooth audio streaming and hands-free phone connectivity, and a 3.5mm auxiliary jack. Satellite and HD Radio are not available on this trim level. While functional, the system lacks the modern features and visual appeal found in many competitors.
The sound quality is adequate for basic listening, particularly in the quieter cabin of the hybrid compared to more performance-oriented Subarus. However, at highway speeds, the stereo needs to be turned up significantly to overcome road and wind noise, and the bass response, while present, sounds somewhat artificial and boosted. Despite its simplicity, the system is user-friendly and avoids being distracting.
Standard amenities in the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid 2.0i Hybrid include automatic climate controls, heated front seats, and keyless entry and start. Interestingly, the “Engine Start Stop” button is reminiscent of that found in Toyota Prius models, despite Toyota’s lack of involvement in Subaru’s hybrid powertrain development. A standard rear camera is also included, displaying its image on the multifunction display when reversing.
Stepping up to the Hybrid Touring trim level upgrades the infotainment system to a 6.1-inch touchscreen with GPS navigation and voice command. This trim also adds HD Radio with iTunes tagging, SMS text-messaging capability, SiriusXM Satellite Radio and NavTraffic, and Aha app integration. However, the audio system remains the same six-speaker setup. The Touring model also adds a power sunroof and leather seats for those seeking more premium features.
Market Positioning and Alternatives: An Odd Duck
Priced at $25,995 for the base 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid 2.0i Hybrid and $29,295 for the Hybrid Touring (plus destination fees), the vehicle occupies a somewhat unusual position in the market. Finding direct competitors is challenging, as it straddles the line between small, fuel-efficient crossovers and hybrid wagons.
For buyers prioritizing fuel economy in a tall wagon format, the 2014 Ford C-Max and Toyota Prius V present compelling alternatives. The C-Max closely matches the XV’s interior volume while offering significantly better fuel economy at 40 mpg combined. The larger Prius V boasts even greater interior space and an impressive 42 mpg combined. However, neither of these options offers Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive or the XV Hybrid’s 8.7 inches of ground clearance, making them less suitable for off-pavement adventures.
Ultimately, the toughest competition for the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid 2.0i Hybrid comes from within Subaru’s own lineup and the broader compact crossover segment. The non-hybrid XV Crosstrek, along with competitors like the Mazda CX-5 and Nissan Rogue CVT, offer comparable fuel economy, similar power, and less complex powertrains, making it difficult to justify the premium for the hybrid version and its modest benefits.
Conclusion: Hard to Justify the Hybrid Premium
The 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid 2.0i Hybrid represents Subaru’s initial foray into hybrid technology, and while it incorporates some interesting engineering solutions, the real-world benefits are underwhelming. The promised gains in fuel economy and performance are minimal, failing to justify the significant price premium over the standard XV Crosstrek and its non-hybrid competitors.
While the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid 2.0i Hybrid offers the unique combination of hybrid efficiency, all-wheel drive, and generous ground clearance, its limited electric range, small battery, and disappointing fuel economy in testing make it a hard sell for eco-conscious buyers. Unless all-wheel drive and ground clearance are paramount, buyers seeking a truly fuel-efficient and value-oriented hybrid crossover would be better served by exploring alternatives like the Toyota Prius V or Ford C-Max, or even considering the standard, non-hybrid Subaru XV Crosstrek itself.
Tech Specs
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| Model |
| Trim |
| Power train |
| EPA fuel economy |
| Observed fuel economy |
| Navigation |
| Bluetooth phone support |
| Digital audio sources |
| Audio system |
| Driver aids |
| Base price |
| Price as tested |
