Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid vs Lexus TX

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid continued the evolutionary design improvements seen in its predecessors, maintaining its attractive appeal. The most noticeable update 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 with integrated air inlets and outlets, contributed to improved fuel efficiency and reduced road noise. Inside, the Crosstrek Hybrid offered a balance of rugged utility and refined comfort, with a straightforward design prioritizing function. The cabin featured soft-touch surfaces and durable plastics, with Canadian models boasting black leather upholstery. Standard features included heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a power moonroof, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2026 Lexus TX presented a bold exterior with a large grille reminiscent of the older spindle design, complemented by sharp bi-LED headlights and rear LED lighting spanning the vehicle's width. The interior offered three colour options and ambient lighting, though material quality fell short of luxury standards. The redesigned door handles, which reacted to pressure rather than pulling out, were a unique feature, though some might have preferred more attention to cabin detail. The TX's interior was spacious, with a third row that accommodated adults comfortably, and a one-touch button facilitated easy access to the third row. The front seats were roomy but could have benefited from more thigh support, while the climate controls were a mix of screen-based and physical dials. Cargo space was generous, with up to 2,747 litres available when all rear seats were folded.

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 standout performer, with a total system output of 194 horsepower, thanks to its Atkinson/Miller-cycle engine paired with an 118 hp traction motor. This made it the fastest Crosstrek to date, offering smoother acceleration. The hybrid powertrain 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. Subaru's AWD system, combined with the X-Mode traction management system, provided superior capability on variable terrain compared to competitors like the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid.

The 2026 Lexus TX 350 featured a 275-horsepower 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the TX 500h hybrid boosted output to 366 horsepower. The gas model came with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and the hybrid had a six-speed automatic. The TX 350 included electronically controlled full-time AWD, while the TX 500h utilized Lexus's Direct4 AWD system, distributing torque on demand. Drive modes included Normal, Eco, and Sport, with Sport mode enhancing throttle sensitivity. The TX 500h offered adaptive suspension and rear steering for improved handling. While not a sports car, the TX provided a balanced driving experience, with the hybrid model offering a more dynamic ride.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid marked Subaru's third attempt at a hybrid model, addressing previous compromises. It offered more horsepower and cargo space than earlier versions, with 527 litres of cargo volume behind the rear seats and 1,433 litres with the rear row folded. The fuel tank remained a generous 63 litres, allowing for extended driving range. Rear-seat space was ample, with 926 millimetres of legroom, surpassing competitors like the Corolla Cross Hybrid. Up front, storage was limited, with a small tray for wireless charging and deep door pockets.

The 2026 Lexus TX provided a spacious interior with three-zone automatic climate control, heated and cooled front seats, and heated second-row seats. The third row was notably roomy, with a recline function and ample headroom. Access to the third row was facilitated by a one-touch button, though folding the second row flat required multiple steps. The front seats offered comfort but lacked thigh support, while the cupholders were versatile. Climate controls were primarily screen-based, with physical dials for temperature. Cargo space was impressive, with 572 litres available with all seats in place, expanding to 2,747 litres with all rear seats folded. The TX could tow up to 2,268 kilograms when properly equipped.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid featured an 11.6-inch touchscreen, though 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 included a Harman Kardon stereo and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, though navigation maps were limited to the touchscreen.

The 2026 Lexus TX boasted a 14-inch touchscreen with quick response times, though some features lacked polish. Steering wheel buttons controlled various functions but were not labelled, requiring reliance on the digital display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though connectivity issues occasionally arose. The TX offered a range of subscription-based features, including in-dash navigation and a voice assistant. The back-up camera provided a clear view, and the Advanced Park system handled parking duties. With seven USB ports and wireless charging, device connectivity was well-supported.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid included Subaru's EyeSight advanced driver assistance systems, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, pre-collision braking, and more. While the 2025 model did not receive a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS, it scored five stars in NHTSA testing. The 2026 model had not yet been rated by either organization.

The 2026 Lexus TX came standard with Safety System+ 3.0, offering forward collision warning, lane tracing assist, and more. Proactive Driving Assist was included, though it could be overly sensitive. Adaptive cruise control worked well once set up, and hands-free driving was available via subscription. The TX received five stars from the NHTSA and mixed ratings from the IIHS, with "Acceptable" and "Good" scores in various crash tests.