2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid vs 2025 Genesis GV80

The 2025 Genesis GV80 was a testament to sophisticated design, offering two engine options and four trims in Canada. The top Prestige trim, featuring a 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged engine, was particularly noteworthy. Genesis maintained its signature design language with a redesigned front fascia, incorporating micro lens array headlights and a deeper grille. The rear changes were subtle, but the new Storr Green colour added a fresh touch. Inside, the GV80 boasted quilted Nappa leather seats and unique interior accents, such as basalt or recycled newspaper trim. The centre console was equipped with three tactile dials, including a gear selector and drive mode selector, although the redundant infotainment dial seemed unnecessary.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid continued the evolutionary improvements of its predecessors, maintaining its attractive design. The third-generation model carried forward changes from 2024, with a new sheet metal and chassis construction. The most noticeable update was the frameless grille with a curved wing bar, creating a visual connection with the headlights. The Crosstrek Hybrid was sold in a single trim in Canada, offering a balance of rugged utility and refined comfort. The cabin featured soft-touch surfaces and black leather upholstery, with chrome-trimmed power window switches adding an upscale touch. Standard features included heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a power moonroof.

The 2025 Genesis GV80 retained its powertrain options, with a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. The top trim featured a twin-turbocharged six-cylinder engine with 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. All trims came with standard all-wheel drive, capable of sending up to 100% of torque to the rear wheels. The GV80 offered a satisfying acceleration experience, with a burly sound at wide-open throttle. The brakes were firm and linear, providing confident stopping power for the nearly 2,300-kilogram SUV.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid featured a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder gas engine, producing 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid powertrain, with a total system output of 194 hp, made it the fastest Crosstrek to date. The hybrid system utilized two motor-generators and a 2.5-litre Boxer H4 engine, offering improved efficiency and smoother acceleration. During testing, the Crosstrek Hybrid recorded 7.6 litres per 100 kilometres, slightly above the estimated 6.5 L/100 km. Subaru's AWD system and X-Mode traction management system enhanced the vehicle's capability on variable terrain.

The 2025 Genesis GV80 was well-equipped with power-adjustable heated front seats, heated outboard rear seats, and a heated steering wheel. The top trim featured four-zone climate control and ventilated front and second-row seats. However, the seats were uncomfortable for long trips. The GV80 offered 990 millimetres of legroom in the second row, with the option for a third row in the Prestige trim. Cargo space was similar to the 2024 model, with a towing capacity of 2,720 kilograms.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid improved upon its predecessors, offering more horsepower and cargo space. The hybrid model provided 527 litres of cargo volume behind the rear seats and 1,433 litres with the rear row folded. The fuel tank remained at 63 litres, allowing for a range of 829 kilometres. The Crosstrek Hybrid offered 926 millimetres of rear-seat legroom, with limited front storage options.

The 2025 Genesis GV80 featured a 27-inch OLED screen for the digital gauge cluster and infotainment system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, although the infotainment system's menus were cumbersome. The GV80 offered wireless charging, four USB-C ports, and an 18-speaker Bang & Olufsen stereo system.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid came with an 11.6-inch touchscreen, but the software was slow and frustrating to use. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with physical buttons for volume, tuning, and HVAC controls. The Crosstrek Hybrid included a Harman Kardon stereo and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, although the navigation map was limited to the touchscreen.

The 2025 Genesis GV80 included advanced driver aids such as lane keeping assist, forward collision avoidance, and blind-spot monitoring. Upper trims added features like remote smart parking and a 360-degree camera system. The Highway Drive Assist II system was standard, with an attention monitor for driver safety. The 2024 model received high safety ratings, but the 2025 model had not yet been rated.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid included Subaru's EyeSight advanced driver assistance systems, with features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and pre-collision braking. The 2025 model received mixed safety ratings, with improvements made for the 2026 model. The Crosstrek Hybrid offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, although it lacked a semi-autonomous driving system.