Subaru’s next-generation HEV system is a ‘Strong Hybrid’

Like other Japanese automakers, Subaru has offered hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) powertrains for some time. It first showed a Sequential Series Hybrid Electric powertrain in the B9 Scrambler concept in 2003 and in 2013, presented its first HEV model, the XV Crosstrek Hybrid.

In 2018, it integrated the Toyota Hybrid System with its own horizontally-opposed boxer engine to offer a plug-in hybrid powertrain (PHEV) with the second generation of the model.

At the end of 2024, Subaru will launch the latest Crosstrek (for the Japanese market) with a next-generation HEV system referred to as a ‘Strong Hybrid’ (as opposed to the Mild Hybrid). This new electrified powertrain is equipped with a newly developed 2.5-litre boxer engine with high thermal efficiency. Output from the engine is 160 ps/209 Nm.

The transaxle is newly developed, with 2 powerful motors – traction motor and motor-generator – a front differential gear, and an electronically-controlled coupling integrated into a single package.

The traction motor, which generates a maximum output of 88 kW (119.6 ps)/270 Nm, can serve as the vehicle’s main source of power in a wide range of situations, with the engine covering areas where the motor is not well suited. The series-parallel system thus efficiently uses either the engine or motor as the power source, depending on the situation.

Enhanced dynamic driving performance with smooth acceleration is promised, while Subaru’s proven Symmetrical AWD delivers will also provide off-road performance with its precise control of the mechanically-coupled front and rear wheels through the propeller shaft. In addition, when running in EV mode, with only electric power, noise levels are very low.

The compact dimensions of the horizontally-opposed engine allow for a large high-voltage lithium-ion battery pack stored under the cargo floor, and large-capacity fuel tank.

The larger fuel tank and approximately 20% improvement in fuel consumption over the existing hybrid system have achieved in a cruising range said to be over 1,000 kms on a single 63-litre tank. This is the longest range of any Subaru vehicle in history.

Honda’s hybrid (e:HEV) technology is 25 years old