Subaru to axe ‘mild’ hybrid power in favour of Toyota tech

Subaru has confirmed plans to axe the milder of its 'hybrid' technologies in Japan as part of a rollout of new, more effective petrol-electric power based on Toyota hardware.

However, Subaru Australia has yet to announce when it will replace the hybrid system – now offered only in the Crosstrek – with the Toyota-based system already fitted to the latest Forester.

Order books in Japan for the two remaining Subaru models with the milder version of its hybrid technology, the Impreza and Crosstrek, will close in September, according to media outlet, Nikkei.

"In light of the progress in electrification and the strengthening of environmental regulations, we have reviewed our product portfolio and have decided to discontinue the mild hybrid vehicle program," a Subaru representative in Japan told the outlet.

MORE: Subaru admits its performance cars got boring, but salvation is coming

It will see the Crosstrek exclusively shift to the same 'strong hybrid' system as the larger Forester, which pairs Subaru's 2.5-litre 'boxer' four-cylinder petrol engine with a Toyota-sourced electric motor and battery.

The outgoing hybrid is referenced by Subaru as a 'mild-hybrid', though it is a reflection of its limited electric-only capabilities and low electric-motor power output – 12.3kW vs 90kW – compared to the 'strong hybrid' alternative.

The term 'mild-hybrid' is usually applied to vehicles with electric systems that can assist the engine, but not drive the wheels on battery power alone, as the Subaru system can.

Confusingly, both Subaru hybrid systems are marketed under the e-Boxer badge in Australia.

MORE: Best-selling hybrid cars so far in 2026 revealed – every model listed

Australian details on the 'strong hybrid' version of the Crosstrek remain unclear, as the brand continues to offer the original hybrid system, which real-world testing by Drive has found to deliver negligible fuel savings.

"In Australia, the Subaru Crosstrek currently features Subaru's e-Boxer 2.0-litre mild-hybrid powertrain," a Subaru Australia spokesperson said.

"While we're unable to comment on future product plans, we look forward to sharing any updates relevant to the Australian market when available."

The 'strong hybrid' version of the Crosstrek first launched in Japan in late 2024, before it expanded to the United States last year.

MORE: Subaru Crosstrek ‘Strong Hybrid’ on the radar for Australia

Subaru claims it reduces fuel consumption by around 20 per cent compared with its now-axed mild-hybrid system, while it also offers greater performance with higher outputs for its petrol engine and electric motor.

Besides its upgraded powertrain, the 'strong hybrid' version of the Crosstrek also introduces a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, along with unique alloy wheel designs and exterior colours.

Earlier this year, Subaru Australia general manager Scott Lawrence told Drive "watch this space" when asked about the 'strong hybrid' version of the Crosstrek.

"We’re working with Subaru Corporation [in Japan] on a few different options," he added.