Subaru eyes powerful Crosstrek hybrid and new Uncharted EV for Australia

Japanese automaker Subaru is exploring a more powerful hybrid version of the Subaru Crosstrek for Australia while also hinting that a third electric model – the Subaru Uncharted – could eventually join its local lineup.

The brand confirmed it is evaluating new powertrain options for the popular small SUV, including the more advanced “Strong Hybrid” system already used in the Subaru Forester overseas.

At the same time, Subaru’s electric strategy continues to evolve, with the new Subaru Trailseeker set to arrive locally soon and the Uncharted electric SUV potentially next in line.

▶️MORE: Subaru Trailseeker EV Confirmed for Australia

A stronger hybrid Crosstrek could be coming

The current Crosstrek lineup in Australia offers buyers a choice between a standard petrol engine and a mild-hybrid setup.

Both versions rely on a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated Boxer four-cylinder engine, producing:

• 115kW and 196Nm in petrol models
• 100kW and 182Nm in mild-hybrid variants

However, Subaru Australia has confirmed it is investigating a more advanced hybrid system similar to the Strong Hybrid setup recently introduced in the Forester.

▶️MORE: 2026 Subaru Solterra Arrives in Australia

That system pairs:

• A 2.5-litre petrol engine producing 121kW and 212Nm
• A 90kW electric motor
• A 1.1kWh battery

Combined output rises to 145kW, delivering significantly more power than the current Crosstrek.

Fuel economy improvements are also expected. For comparison:

• Current Crosstrek petrol: 7.2L/100km
• Current Crosstrek hybrid: 6.5L/100km
• Forester Strong Hybrid: 6.2L/100km

If introduced locally, the stronger hybrid would likely sit above the current Hybrid S grade, which is priced at $47,590 before on-road costs.

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Subaru Crosstrek Strong Hybrid – Expected Specifications

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Subaru Uncharted – Early Electric SUV Specifications

Subaru’s EV lineup is expanding

Subaru has been gradually increasing its electric vehicle presence globally.

The brand’s first EV in Australia, the Subaru Solterra, arrived recently as a mid-size electric SUV developed in partnership with Toyota.

Later this year, the Trailseeker electric SUV is expected to follow, giving Subaru two EV options locally.

But the company may not stop there.

Subaru executives have hinted that the Uncharted electric SUV, another model developed alongside Toyota, could eventually be added to the Australian lineup.

▶️MORE: Subaru Solterra AWD Charging Guide: Time, Speed, Power

What we know about the Uncharted EV

The Uncharted will effectively be Subaru’s version of the upcoming Toyota C-HR+ electric SUV.

While full details are still emerging, early information from the United States market suggests:

• Front-wheel-drive entry model
• All-wheel-drive performance variant

The AWD version is expected to deliver 252kW from dual electric motors, paired with a 74.7kWh lithium-ion battery.

Range estimates include:

• Up to 467km (EPA) for AWD variants
• More than 483km for front-wheel-drive versions

For Australian buyers, Subaru’s trademark all-wheel-drive capability is likely to remain a key selling point.

What this means for Australia’s EV and hybrid market

Subaru’s next moves highlight how traditional car brands are gradually expanding electrification while still leaning on hybrid technology.

A stronger Crosstrek hybrid could appeal to Australian buyers who want better efficiency but aren’t ready to fully switch to electric vehicles.

At the same time, introducing the Uncharted EV would broaden Subaru’s electric lineup beyond the Solterra.

That could help the brand compete more directly with electric SUVs from manufacturers such as:

• Hyundai Kona Electric
• Tesla Model Y
• BYD Atto 3

For Australia’s EV market, more models from established brands like Subaru could help accelerate mainstream adoption, especially among buyers who already trust the brand’s reputation for reliability and all-weather capability.