Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid vs Ford Mustang Mach-E

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid continued the evolutionary design improvements that Subaru had been implementing since the model's inception. The third-generation Crosstrek maintained its attractive appeal with subtle updates, such as the frameless grille with a curved wing bar that seamlessly connected with the headlights, creating a distinctive front fascia. The aerodynamic enhancements, including the black-plastic cladding around the wheel arches, contributed to improved fuel efficiency and reduced road noise. Inside, the Crosstrek Hybrid offered a blend of rugged utility and refined comfort, with a straightforward design that prioritized functionality. The cabin featured consistent material quality, with soft-touch surfaces and durable plastics, and came equipped with standard features like heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a power moonroof.

The 2026 Ford Mustang Mach-E stood out with its Mustang-inspired design, featuring a familiar grille insert and squinting headlights. Its sculpted sides and SUV-coupe-like profile, reminiscent of the BMW X6, added to its sporty appeal. The rear showcased a roof spoiler and the iconic Mustang sequential three-bar taillights. The Mach-E offered various trims, including the Rally trim with unique styling elements like a black roof and dish-style wheels. Inside, the Mach-E provided a spacious cabin with synthetic leather upholstery and contrast stitching. The GT trim featured sport seats with additional bolstering, while the Rally trim added aluminum pedals and ambient lighting. The Mach-E's interior combined comfort with a sporty aesthetic, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a stylish electric SUV.

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 paired with an 118 hp traction motor, resulting in a total system output of 194 hp. This made it the fastest Crosstrek to date, offering quicker and smoother acceleration compared to its gas-only counterpart. The hybrid powertrain utilized two motor-generators, with one handling engine start/stop functions and battery charging, while the other assisted with driving and regenerative braking. During testing, the Crosstrek Hybrid recorded 7.6 litres per 100 kilometres, slightly above the estimated 6.5 L/100 km. The Crosstrek's AWD system, combined with the X-Mode traction management system, provided enhanced capability on variable terrain.

The 2026 Ford Mustang Mach-E offered a range of powertrain options, starting with a dual-motor AWD system and a 73-kilowatt-hour battery pack, delivering 325 horsepower and 380 kilometres of range. The Mach-E GT boasted 480 hp and a 451 km range, while the Rally trim offered 410 km. The Premium model tested had dual motors, an extended-range battery, 370 hp, and 500 pound-feet of torque, with a range of 483 km. The Mach-E's electric motors provided immediate torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in under five seconds. The GT trim, with 480 hp and 600 lb-ft of torque, achieved a 0-96 km/h time of 3.8 seconds, while the Performance Upgrade increased torque to 700 lb-ft. The Mach-E's handling was agile, with a rear-drive bias and electronic torque vectoring, though the ride could be improved, particularly in the rear.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid marked Subaru's third attempt at a hybrid Crosstrek, offering more horsepower and cargo space than previous versions. With a cargo volume of 527 litres behind the rear seats and 1,433 litres with the rear row folded, it provided ample storage. The Crosstrek Hybrid retained a 63-litre fuel tank, allowing for a range of 829 kilometres between fill-ups. Rear-seat space was generous, with 926 millimetres of legroom, surpassing competitors like the Corolla Cross Hybrid. Up front, storage was limited, with a small tray for a wireless charging pad and two cupholders.

The 2026 Ford Mustang Mach-E featured a spacious interior, thanks to its longer wheelbase. It offered good headroom and legroom in both rows, though fitting three across in the second row was a squeeze. The Select trim, priced to qualify for the federal rebate, lacked some features like heated front seats, which were standard on the Premium trim. Cargo space was practical, with 841 litres behind the second row and 1,691 litres with the rear seats folded. The Mach-E's sloping roof limited space compared to rivals like the Honda CR-V, but an optional 135-litre front trunk provided additional storage.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid came with 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 volume and temperature controls. The Crosstrek Hybrid featured a Harman Kardon stereo and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, though the navigation map couldn't display Google Maps.

The 2026 Ford Mustang Mach-E borrowed from Tesla with its 15.5-inch portrait-style touchscreen, featuring Sync 4A software. While the software was starting to show its age, it was easy to use and could be updated over the air. The Mach-E included a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a digital key. Optional features included a wireless charging pad and a 10-speaker B&O audio system.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid did not receive a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS, scoring "Marginal" in the moderate overlap front crash test and "Acceptable" in the side-impact test. However, it received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. The Crosstrek Hybrid included Subaru's EyeSight ADAS, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, pre-collision braking, and more.

The 2026 Ford Mustang Mach-E came with Ford's Co-Pilot 360 Assist+ suite, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and more. BlueCruise, a Level 2 driver assistance system, was optional, offering hands-free driving on mapped highways. The Mach-E earned a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.