Subaru Explains How Its New Hybrid Boxer Engine is Better

Subaru will be selling a new hybrid in the 2026 model year. Details are not available at this time. However, we got a glimpse of what this new drivetrain will be. 

The website Motor1.com recently wrote an article based on a visit with Subaru’s development team during a conference. The article explained how “decarbonization can be achieved without going all-in on EVs.” 

As part of a joint effort with Toyota and Mazda, Subaru is taking the basic idea of this approach and developing a BOXER engine with a unique hybrid system. This system maintains the connection with the BOXER Internal Combustion Engine and final drive system. However, the combustion engine will also serve as a generator to feed a battery powering an electric motor. 

According to Motor1.com, Subaru states that the new driveline will bring “notable benefits not just in terms of fuel economy but also in packaging.” The idea is to package the engine, hybrid system, transmission, and transfer case together with the power control unit located in the engine bay. The immediate benefit of this packaging is to install the same fuel tank as in the regular ICE model to ensure a longer fuel range. 

One thing that will not change is that this hybrid Subaru will still have a version of the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which will continue to provide the safety and security you expect in a Subaru. 

Subaru’s current push towards electrification has its roots in the Crosstrek. Our small SUV had two hybrid drivelines in past generation models. The company’s latest electrified model, the Solterra, is a pure battery-electric SUV. The Solterra offers the right combination of efficiency and all-wheel drive traction you expect in a Subaru. 

There is room for more electrified Subarus. Which model would it be?

At Subaru, you can probably bet that this driveline could fit in any of our models. We made our models easy to configure for every lifestyle. This is why there are many more on the road lasting longer than the average automobile.

If you are among those waiting for a hybrid Subaru, rest assured, it is coming. 

The future is looming. Subaru of Rochester is ready to offer the new hybrid model for the 2026 model year. Contact us to register your interest in an all-new hybrid Subaru – coming before we know it!