Toyota Prius vs Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid

Decades ago, few cars were anywhere near as fuel efficient as the Toyota Prius. Today, the 2025 Prius remains a fuel economy champion, but numerous alternatives are close. Some even offer more interior room at a lower price. That reality, coupled with the cramped interior, limited trunk space, and general weirdness of the Prius, means hybrid car buyers have options.

Verdict: The point of the 2025 Toyota Prius is fuel economy, but our test car averaged 6.0 litres per 100 kilometres, falling significantly short of the Natural Resources Canada estimate of 4.8 L/100 km in combined driving. That certainly isn’t superior to roomier hybrid cars from Honda, Hyundai, or from within Toyota’s own lineup.

There aren’t many subcompact crossovers on the market with hybrid powertrains. As such, it’s tough to weigh the new 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid against a field of other options. The Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid is its primary competition. The Kia Niro Hybrid is exclusively front-wheel drive (FWD), and vehicles such as the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid, Honda CR-V Hybrid, and Toyota RAV4 Hybrid all compete in the larger compact crossover segment. If shoppers want a fuel-efficient and genuinely small crossover with great all-wheel-drive capability, the new Crosstrek Hybrid is the best available choice.

Verdict: With its attractive styling, comfortable interior, and tested AWD system, the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek delivers a terrific package, even if it’s not as efficient as some larger (and more expensive) competitors.