Subaru will add a new model of its compact SUV, the REX Hybrid, to its lineup, with pre-orders starting on May 15, 2025, and the car set to go on sale on June 12, 2025. Prices will range from 2,216,500 yen to 2,608,100 yen.
The “Rex” name holds a special place in Subaru’s history. Starting in 1972, the Rex supported Subaru’s light vehicle lineup for three generations over a 20-year period, ending its role with the introduction of the Vivio. However, the name never disappeared from the market, and in November 2022, it made a spectacular comeback as a sister vehicle to the Daihatsu-produced compact SUV “Rocky” and the Toyota “Raize,” i.e., an OEM-supplied model. This revival marked an important step in Subaru’s full-scale entry into the compact SUV market, and was also expected to appeal to a new customer base different from existing Subaru users. The addition of a long-awaited hybrid model to the Rex, which previously only had a gasoline engine, will dramatically improve its product appeal.
Subaru has added a new model, the Rex Hybrid, to its compact SUV, the Rex. Pre-orders will begin on May 15, 2025, with the car set to go on sale on June 12 of the same year.
History and positioning of the Rex: Originally a light vehicle, the Rex will be revived as a compact SUV in November 2022 as an OEM sister vehicle to the Daihatsu Rocky and Toyota Raize. This time, it is the hybrid version.
Powertrain: Equipped with Daihatsu’s series hybrid system “e-SMART HYBRID.”
- The 1.2L inline 3-cylinder engine is used exclusively for generating electricity, and the vehicle runs on the motor.
- An engine that achieves a thermal efficiency of 40%.
- It achieves smooth, powerful acceleration and quietness similar to that of an electric vehicle.
Fuel economy: Achieves 28.0km/L in WLTC mode, a significant improvement over the gasoline model’s 20.7km/L.
Driving function: Equipped with “Smart Pedal (S-PDL)” that allows acceleration and deceleration by operating only the accelerator (with ECO/Normal/OFF modes).
Exterior:
- The base is the same as Rocky/Rise.
- It features a mesh grille exclusive to the Rex Hybrid to differentiate it from the rest.
interior:
- Black base with red piping accents.
- A 9-inch smartphone-linked display audio and a panoramic view monitor pack are available as manufacturer options.
Advanced and comfortable equipment:
- Equipped with electric parking brake (EPB) + auto brake hold (ABH) functions.
- It works in conjunction with adaptive cruise control (ACC) with full-speed tracking function to improve comfort.
- Equipped with an AC100V/1500W accessory outlet for improved practicality.
Quietness: Sound-insulating and vibration-damping materials are placed throughout the body to achieve exceptional quietness.
Grade structure (expected): Two grades available: “HYBRID G” and “HYBRID Z” (both 2WD).
Price: Not yet announced, but expected to be several hundred thousand yen more expensive than the gasoline model.
Release schedule: Pre-orders begin on May 15, 2025, with release scheduled for June 2025.
Future outlook:
- Users are also hoping for the addition of a turbo engine model.
- This model plays a part in Subaru’s electrification strategy.
Summary: The new Rex Hybrid is a highly competitive compact SUV with excellent fuel economy, driving performance and advanced equipment, and is expected to perform well in the market.
Detailed explanation of the new Rex Hybrid e-SMART HYBRID system
e-SMART HYBRID
At the heart of the new Rex Hybrid is the “e-SMART HYBRID” series hybrid system, which has already earned rave reviews in hybrid models like the Daihatsu Rocky and Toyota Raize. This system combines a 1.2L inline three-cylinder engine dedicated to power generation, achieving a high thermal efficiency of 40%, with a high-performance electric motor that directly generates driving force. The engine is dedicated solely to generating electricity, and that electricity is used to drive the motor, resulting in smooth, powerful acceleration similar to that of an electric vehicle, as well as excellent quietness. The excellent response that only an electric motor can provide, especially when starting off or driving at low speeds, will be a major advantage when driving in urban areas with frequent stop-and-go traffic.
New Rex Hybrid: Incredibly low fuel consumption and improved driving performance
The installation of the e-SMART HYBRID has resulted in a dramatic improvement in fuel economy. While the previous 1.2L gasoline model recorded a fuel economy of 20.7km/L (WLTC mode) which was already quite impressive, the new Rex Hybrid significantly exceeds this, achieving 28.0km/L (WLTC mode). Considering the recent rise in fuel prices, this figure is kind to the household budget and contributes to reducing the environmental impact, making it an extremely attractive option for economically and environmentally conscious users.
In terms of driving performance, the adoption of the “Smart Pedal (S-PDL)” is also noteworthy. This function allows you to control acceleration and deceleration simply by operating the accelerator pedal, and comes with three modes: “ECO,” “Normal,” and “OFF.” Simply releasing the accelerator pedal activates the regenerative brakes more strongly, effectively slowing the vehicle and charging the battery at the same time, reducing the frequency with which you need to switch to the brake pedal, providing a more comfortable and easy driving experience. You will feel the benefits of this especially when going downhill or in traffic jams.
New Rex Hybrid: An exterior design that asserts individuality
SUBARU REX
While the exterior design shares the basic form with the Daihatsu Rocky and Toyota Raize, it has been given exclusive design elements that assert its individuality as a Subaru vehicle. The most eye-catching feature is the mesh grille designed exclusively for the new Rex Hybrid. This gives the front face a more muscular and sporty impression, differentiating it from its siblings. The exterior, which is compact yet powerful and evokes an active lifestyle, is sure to satisfy the joy of ownership.
New Rex Hybrid: Interior space pursuing quality and functionality
SUBARU REX
Turning to the interior, one finds a space that combines functionality and quality. The black-based interior is effectively accented with red piping, creating a sporty and high-quality atmosphere. Attention has also been paid to the quality of the parts the driver touches on a daily basis. In addition, a 9-inch display audio with smartphone connectivity is available as a manufacturer option, an essential feature for modern car life. This allows intuitive operation of a variety of infotainment functions, including navigation, music playback, and hands-free calling, on the large screen. In addition, a Panoramic View Monitor Pack is available to assist with parking and maneuvering in tight spaces, providing peace of mind even for those who are not good at driving.
New Rex Hybrid: Advanced features for enhanced comfort and safety
SUBARU REX
The inclusion of the electric parking brake (EPB) and auto brake hold (ABH) functions is not to be overlooked as equipment that greatly contributes to improved convenience. Compared to conventional foot-operated or manual parking brakes, the EPB can be operated with a single switch, which not only looks neater but also reduces the burden of operation. The ABH function also helps reduce driver fatigue by maintaining the vehicle stationary even when the driver takes their foot off the brake pedal, for example, when waiting at a traffic light. When combined with adaptive cruise control (ACC) with all-speed range tracking, these functions significantly reduce the driver’s burden on long-distance highway trips and in traffic jams, resulting in a safer and more comfortable drive.
Another major advantage in terms of practicality is the inclusion of an AC 100V/1500W accessory outlet. This allows you to supply power from your car when you need to use electrical appliances outside, such as during outdoor leisure activities or in the event of a disaster. For example, you can use it to run small cooking utensils and lighting equipment while camping, or in the unlikely event of a power outage, to charge your smartphone or power devices used for gathering information. This is a very valuable piece of equipment for active users.
New Rex Hybrid: Commitment to quietness
e-SMART HYBRID
Subaru also makes no compromises when it comes to quietness. By optimally placing sound-insulating and vibration-damping materials throughout the body, the intrusion of engine and road noise into the cabin is effectively suppressed. In addition to the inherent quietness of the e-SMART HYBRID, these innovations result in a quiet cabin that is among the quietest in its class, providing a comfortable journey.
New Rex Hybrid grade configuration
According to leaked information, the new Rex Hybrid will be available in two grades, “HYBRID G” and “HYBRID Z,” both of which are expected to be 2WD (front-wheel drive) models. This is thought to follow the grade lineup of the gasoline model. Each grade is expected to have different equipment, allowing customers to choose the one that best suits their budget and the equipment they need.
As for the price, which is of interest, no official announcement has been made at the time of writing. However, considering the price range of the hybrid models of its sister cars, the Daihatsu Rocky and Toyota Raize, as well as the price of the existing Rex gasoline model (G grade: from 1.82 million yen, Z grade: from 2.17 million yen), it is possible to make a certain prediction. It will probably be priced several hundred thousand yen more expensive than the gasoline model, but the improved fuel efficiency and advanced equipment will more than make up for the price difference and are quite attractive. We await the official price announcement.
| Powertrain/Model | grade | Drive system | Price (tax included) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rex 1.2L gasoline |
G | FF | 1,910,700 yen |
| Z | FF | 2,274,500 yen | |
| Rex Hybrid (1.2L Hybrid) | G HEV | FF | 2,260,000 yen |
| Z HEV | FF | 2,550,000 yen |
About the new Rex Hybrid specs
| Specifications | REX Hybrid |
REX |
|---|---|---|
| full length | 3,995mm | 3,995mm |
| Overall width | 1,695mm | 1,695mm |
| Overall height | 1,620mm | 1,620mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,525mm | 2,525mm |
| engine | 1.2L inline 3-cylinder engine + motor |
1.2L inline 3-cylinder engine |
| Maximum power | 60kW (82ps) / 5,600rpm |
64kW (87ps) / 6,000rpm |
| Maximum torque | 105Nm (10.7kgfm) / 3,200-5,200rpm |
113Nm (11.5kgfm) / 4,500rpm |
| Motor maximum output |
78kW (106ps) | – |
| Motor Max Torque |
170Nm (17.4kgm) | – |
transmission |
e-SMART HYBRID system |
CVT |
| Drive system | 2WD | 2WD |
| Minimum turning radius | 4.9 to 5.0 m | 4.9 to 5.0 m |
| Tire size | 195/60R17 | 195/60R17 |
| WLCT mode fuel economy | 28.0km/L | 20.7km/L (2WD) |
| JC08 mode fuel economy | 34.8km/L | 23.6-24.6km/L (2WD) |
Release Schedule
As for the release date, as mentioned above, advance orders will begin on May 15, 2025, with the official release scheduled for June of the same year. As this is a new hybrid model being introduced into the popular compact SUV market, it is expected that many orders will be placed as soon as orders begin. If you are considering purchasing one, we recommend visiting a Subaru dealership early to gather information.
Future developments and Subaru’s electrification strategy
Looking ahead, some users are hoping for the addition of a turbocharged engine model. The Daihatsu Rocky and Toyota Raize, which are sister models, have grades equipped with 1.0L inline 3-cylinder turbo engines in their lineup, and are popular with customers looking for a more powerful driving experience. At present, there is no official information that a turbocharged model will be added to the Rex, but if market demand increases, it is not impossible that it will be added to the lineup in the future. Attention will continue to be focused on what strategy Subaru will use to expand the Rex’s variations.
Looking at other parts of Subaru’s lineup, for example, the delivery date for the new Forester strong hybrid “S:HEV” model is still uncertain, and the electric vehicle Solterra is about to undergo a major minor change, with orders for the current model scheduled to be discontinued once stock runs out, indicating that the shift to electrification is steadily progressing. The arrival of the new Rex Hybrid can be said to play a role in Subaru’s electrification strategy, strengthening its approach to a segment closer to entry and improving the brand’s overall environmentally friendly image.
A word from the editorial department
In summary, the new Subaru Rex Hybrid is a highly competitive compact SUV, boasting outstanding fuel economy and smooth driving performance thanks to the acclaimed e-SMART HYBRID system, a unique exterior design with a special bespoke design, and advanced safety and comfort features. Its appeal lies in its versatile utility, making it suitable for everything from everyday transportation to weekend leisure activities. It has the potential to enrich the car lives of many people, from first-time car buyers to those considering downsizing. Unveiled in the somewhat unusual form of a leak from Kanagawa Subaru, this vehicle is sure to create a new sensation in the compact SUV market. With its official launch just around the corner, we’ll be keeping a close eye on its developments.
Daihatsu Rocky
