2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid vs 2026 Lincoln Aviator

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid continued the evolutionary design improvements seen in its predecessors, maintaining its reputation as an attractive vehicle. The third-generation model carried forward the changes from 2024, featuring new sheet metal and chassis construction. The most noticeable update was the front fascia, where a frameless grille with a curved wing bar created a visual connection with the headlights, giving it a distinctive smile. The aerodynamic air inlets and outlets integrated into the black-plastic cladding around the wheel arches improved fuel efficiency and reduced road noise. Inside, the Crosstrek Hybrid offered a balance of rugged utility and refined comfort, with soft-touch surfaces and durable plastics. The Canadian model featured black leather upholstery, chrome-trimmed power window switches, and "Hybrid"-stitched floor mats, adding upscale accents to the cabin.

The 2026 Lincoln Aviator, essentially a premium version of the Ford Explorer, boasted an elegant exterior design with a long dash-to-axle ratio, restrained character lines, and large wheels. Its reverse-horseshoe grille, flanked by LED headlights, added to its premium look. The interior was the Aviator's main attraction, offering synthetic leather upholstery in the base trim and leather options in the Reserve trim. The Black Label trim, not available in Canada, featured additional luxury touches. The Aviator's cabin was designed for comfort, with power-adjustable seats, heated and ventilated front seats, and tri-zone automatic climate control. The second-row captain’s chairs and third-row seating provided flexibility, although the third row was less comfortable for adults on longer journeys. Cargo space was generous, with power controls for folding the third-row seats, although it didn't match the capacity of some competitors.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid came standard with all-wheel drive and a continuously variable transmission. It featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder gas engine, producing 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque in non-hybrid models. The hybrid version, however, was the fastest Crosstrek, with a total system output of 194 horsepower, thanks to its 2.5-litre Atkinson/Miller-cycle engine paired with an 118 hp traction motor. The hybrid powertrain used two motor-generators for engine start/stop functions, battery charging, and driving assistance. 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 provided superior off-road capability compared to competitors, although the steering remained light and somewhat disconnected.

The 2026 Lincoln Aviator was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, delivering 383 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. The power was transmitted through a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission to all-wheel drive, standard in Canada. The Aviator could accelerate to 100 km/h in under six seconds, with smooth transmission shifts and a focus on ride quality over handling. The suspension system, with available adaptive dampers, provided a smooth ride, although it exhibited body lean through corners. The optional Air Glide suspension offered additional control and adjustable ride height. The Aviator also came with a Class III trailer tow package, capable of towing up to 2,268 kilograms.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid improved upon its predecessors by offering more horsepower and cargo space. With a cargo volume of 527 litres behind the rear seats and 1,433 litres with the rear row folded, it provided ample storage without the compromises of previous models. The fuel tank remained a generous 63 litres, allowing for long-distance travel without frequent refuelling. Rear-seat space was generous, with 926 millimetres of legroom, surpassing competitors like the Corolla Cross Hybrid. However, front storage was limited, with a small tray for wireless charging and deep door pockets.

The 2026 Lincoln Aviator offered a luxurious interior with power-adjustable seats, heated and ventilated front seats, and tri-zone automatic climate control. The Reserve trim added quad-zone climate control and power-adjustable captain’s chairs. The Aviator could seat up to seven, with second-row captain’s chairs providing flexibility. The third row, while offering decent headroom, was less comfortable for adults on longer trips. Cargo space was generous, with 467 litres behind the third row and up to 2,149 litres with the second row folded. However, it fell short of some competitors in terms of maximum cargo capacity.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid featured an 11.6-inch touchscreen, but its infotainment system lagged behind competitors. The software was slow, and many controls were managed via touchscreen buttons, which could be frustrating. However, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with physical buttons for essential functions. The Crosstrek Hybrid also included a Harman Kardon stereo and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, although the navigation map couldn't display Google Maps.

The 2026 Lincoln Aviator's tech suite included a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster and a 13.2-inch infotainment touchscreen. While modern, it felt less advanced compared to newer Lincoln models with full-width screens. The Aviator's tech included the Lincoln Digital Experience, 5G Wi-Fi hotspot, remote start, digital key functionality, and a 14-speaker audio system. The Reserve trim added ambient lighting and a Revel 14-speaker audio system, with a high-end 28-speaker system available.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid received mixed safety ratings. The IIHS did not award it a Top Safety Pick designation, but the NHTSA gave it a five-star overall safety rating. Subaru's EyeSight advanced driver assistance systems were standard, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. However, Subaru lacked a semi-autonomous driving system comparable to competitors.

The 2026 Lincoln Aviator came with standard safety features as part of the Lincoln Co-Pilot360 Drive 2.0 system. This included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Aviator performed well in crash tests, earning five stars from the NHTSA and top scores from the IIHS. However, it lacked a rating for its headlights, preventing it from qualifying for a Top Safety Pick award.