Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid vs Genesis GV70

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid continued the evolutionary design improvements seen in previous models, maintaining its attractive appeal. The most noticeable change was the front fascia, featuring a frameless grille with a curved wing bar that seamlessly connected with the headlights, creating a distinctive smile-like appearance. The aerodynamic enhancements, such as 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 emphasized functionality. The cabin featured consistent material quality, with soft-touch surfaces and durable plastics, and came equipped with black leather upholstery in Canadian models. Standard features included heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a power moonroof, enhancing the overall comfort and atmosphere.

The 2026 Genesis GV70 exemplified Genesis's "Athletic Elegance" design philosophy with its refined style and strong grille and fascia treatment. The exterior was available in eight colours, including the new Ceres Blue, inspired by the first dwarf planet discovered by humanity. The front fascia featured a sharpened crest-shaped grille flanked by two-line headlamps with micro lens array lighting elements. The interior showcased a 27-inch OLED screen dominating the dashboard, complemented by redesigned lighting elements that added a techy glow. The GV70 Sport model offered unique design elements, including a distinct grille pattern, dark chrome moulding, and 21-inch wheels. Inside, carbon fibre trim and flashy interior colours set the Sport model apart, while more traditional luxury options were also available.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid featured a hybrid powertrain that 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 compared to the gas-only version. The hybrid system utilized two motor-generators, one for engine start/stop and battery charging, and the other as a drive motor and for regenerative braking. During testing, the Crosstrek Hybrid recorded 7.6 litres per 100 kilometres, slightly above the estimated 6.5 L/100 km. The hybrid's AWD system, combined with Subaru's X-Mode traction management, provided superior capability on variable terrain compared to competitors like the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid.

The 2026 Genesis GV70 offered a base 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 300 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The 3.5T Sport trim featured a 3.5-litre turbocharged V6 with 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque, delivering exhilarating performance. The GV70 included Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ driving modes, along with a new Terrain Mode for Snow, Mud, and Sand settings. The vehicle's advanced systems, such as hydro bushings and Highway Body Motion Control, contributed to a smooth ride. The Road Preview feature used cameras to adjust the suspension for improved comfort, making the GV70 a refined performer on various road surfaces.

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 a total capacity of 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 refueling. 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 Genesis GV70 provided ample space for tall drivers in the front seats, though the 27-inch OLED screen was partially blocked by the steering wheel. The centre console featured a rotary shifter and infotainment dial, which could be confusing during quick gear changes. Rear seats offered good headroom and shoulder room, but legroom was less impressive, and the sloping roofline made the back feel more cramped. Cargo space was adequate but fell short compared to rivals like the BMW X3.

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 touchscreen-based, which could be frustrating. However, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, providing an alternative to the Starlink software. The Crosstrek Hybrid also featured a Harman Kardon stereo and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, though navigation maps from phone projections were not displayed on the cluster.

The 2026 Genesis GV70 boasted a 27-inch OLED touchscreen with over-the-air updates and customizable themes. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a 360-degree Surround View Monitor. The digital gauge cluster was customizable, displaying map views, ADAS readouts, and more. Voice commands were expanded, though some features, like window control, were not fully functional. The GV70 also featured Genesis Digital Key and a fingerprint authentication system for keyless entry and start.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid included Subaru's EyeSight ADAS suite, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more. However, the 2025 model did not receive a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS, scoring "Marginal" and "Acceptable" in crash tests. The NHTSA awarded it five stars overall, but the 2026 model had not yet been rated.

The 2026 Genesis GV70 offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision avoidance, lane keeping assist, and more. The Highway Driving Assist II technology used capacitive sensors for steering wheel detection. The 2025 GV70 was a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS and received a five-star rating from the NHTSA, suggesting the 2026 model would likely achieve similar ratings.