2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid vs 2025 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse was a testament to Chevrolet's knack for crafting visually appealing SUVs, with its exterior styling drawing praise across the board. Inside, the Traverse continued this trend with digital instrumentation and a Google-based infotainment system that was both functional and attractive. However, the interior materials left something to be desired, with hard, glossy plastics and Evotex artificial leather that failed to convincingly mimic genuine leather. This was particularly disappointing given the Traverse's higher price point, which ranged from $54,333 to $70,333 in Canada. Our test vehicle, a Z71 trim, featured extras like Radiant Red paint and a panoramic sunroof, bringing its MSRP to $68,681.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid, meanwhile, built on the Crosstrek's reputation for evolutionary design improvements. The third-generation model retained the familiar look but introduced subtle updates like a frameless grille and aerodynamic enhancements around the wheel arches. Inside, the Crosstrek Hybrid offered a blend of rugged utility and comfort, with soft-touch surfaces and black leather upholstery in Canadian models. The cabin's straightforward design prioritized function, and features like heated front seats and a power moonroof were standard. The Crosstrek Hybrid was sold in a single trim in Canada, sitting at the top of the lineup.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse was powered by a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque. While the engine delivered ample power, its exhaust note was less than refined. The Traverse's Z71 trim, designed for off-road adventures, featured a higher ground clearance of 19.7 cm, all-terrain tires, and a Twin Clutch AWD system. The Z71 excelled on trails, with its suspension handling rough terrain effectively. Despite its off-road capabilities, the Traverse Z71 provided a smooth ride on regular roads, with a fuel consumption rating of 10.9 L/100 km during testing.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre Atkinson/Miller-cycle engine with an 118 hp traction motor, resulting in a total system output of 194 hp. This made it the fastest Crosstrek to date, with smoother acceleration than its gas-only counterpart. The hybrid system utilized two motor-generators for engine start/stop functions and regenerative braking. During testing, the Crosstrek Hybrid recorded a fuel consumption of 7.6 L/100 km, slightly above the official estimate. Subaru's AWD system, coupled with X-Mode traction management, ensured the Crosstrek Hybrid was capable on various terrains, although its steering remained light and somewhat disconnected.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse offered generous interior space, with seating for up to eight passengers. The front seats were comfortable, and the second-row captain's chairs provided good support. However, the third-row seats lacked a view due to the rear window design and did not have USB charging ports. Cargo space was commendable, with 648 litres behind the third row and up to 2,764 litres with the second row folded. The Traverse's interior storage was adequate but lacked some family-friendly features found in competitors.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid improved on its predecessors by offering more cargo space, with 527 litres behind the rear seats and 1,433 litres with the rear row folded. The hybrid's fuel tank remained a generous 63 litres, allowing for long-distance travel without frequent refuelling. Rear-seat legroom was ample at 926 millimetres, surpassing competitors like the Corolla Cross Hybrid. While front storage was limited, the Crosstrek Hybrid included a wireless charging pad and deep door pockets.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse featured a standout 17.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Google Built-in, offering Google Maps, Google Assistant, and access to the Google Play Store. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a Wi-Fi hotspot, were standard. The Traverse also included an 11-inch digital instrumentation panel with customizable views. Optional features like a digital rearview mirror and a surround-view camera system enhanced the driving experience.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid came with an 11.6-inch touchscreen, but its software was slow and prone to fingerprints. While wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, the infotainment system lagged behind competitors. The Crosstrek Hybrid included a Harman Kardon stereo and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, which could display navigation maps. However, the map feature did not support Google Maps when using phone projection.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keep assist. The Enhanced Driving Package added Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, and remote-parking technology. The Traverse received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" award from the IIHS.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid included Subaru's EyeSight ADAS, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and pre-collision braking. While the 2025 Crosstrek did not receive a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS, it scored five stars in NHTSA testing. The Crosstrek Hybrid also featured a surround-view camera and the DriverFocus distraction mitigation system.