Subaru Phases Out e-Boxer for New Full Hybrid with 194 HP

Subaru is making significant strides in the evolution of its electrified lineup. The Japanese automaker has announced plans to discontinue the e-Boxer versions of the Impreza and Crosstrek in its domestic market, replacing them with a new, more powerful and efficient full hybrid system.

This move aligns with Subaru's strategy to meet increasingly stringent emission regulations while advancing the electrification of its offerings.

End of e-Boxer for Impreza and Crosstrek

In Japan, Subaru has confirmed that orders for the current e-Boxer versions of the Impreza and Crosstrek will remain open until September 14, 2026. After this date, these models will no longer be available with the mild hybrid system that was introduced in 2018, which pairs a 2-liter boxer gasoline engine with a small electric motor powered by a 118 Volt system.

This configuration delivers a total power output of 136 HP and allows for limited electric-only driving, with the electric motor primarily assisting the internal combustion engine and recovering energy during braking.

Introduction of the New S:HEV with 194 HP

Replacing the e-Boxer will be the new S:HEV system, a full hybrid developed using key components supplied by Toyota. This new powertrain features:

• A 2.5-liter naturally aspirated boxer gasoline engine producing 160 HP and 209 Nm of torque;
• Two electric motors;
• An automatic CVT transmission;
• Subaru's traditional Symmetrical AWD.

The total output reaches 194 HP, marking a significant improvement over the existing e-Boxer setup.

Enhanced Electric Driving and Efficiency

The S:HEV system employs an architecture that integrates both parallel hybrid and series hybrid operations. This means the vehicle can operate solely on the electric motor, the internal combustion engine, or a combination of both, depending on driving conditions.

A key innovation is the ability for the boxer engine to function as a generator, producing energy to recharge the traction battery and subsequently power the electric system. This aims to increase the share of electric-only driving and enhance overall efficiency compared to the previous e-Boxer.

Already in Use in Other Subaru Models

The S:HEV system is not entirely new for Subaru, as it is already utilized in the Levorg for the Japanese market and in the North American versions of the Forester and Crosstrek, representing the next generation of the brand's hybrid technology.

Timeline for Europe

Currently, Subaru has not announced when the new full hybrid will replace the e-Boxer in European markets. The company has indicated that evaluations are still ongoing regarding the compatibility of the new powertrain with the final version of the Euro 7 regulations.

Consequently, it remains uncertain if and when the S:HEV system will be introduced in European models such as the Impreza, Crosstrek, and Forester. Until then, the European lineup will continue to be offered with the existing e-Boxer technology.