Perhaps the second time is the charm. Subaru has officially unveiled its 2019 Crosstrek Hybrid just ahead of its live debut at the LA Auto Show next week. The previous generation Crosstrek Hybrid was neither a huge sales success nor a significant fuel economy improvement over the non-hybrid model. Has Subaru gotten it right this time? It sure sounds like it.

But first off, the 2019 Crosstrek Hybrid is really a plug-in hybrid, taking advantage of Toyota's highly regarded hybrid system. Only this time it's been connected to Subaru's own 2.0-liter direct-injection Boxer four engine. The drivetrain system is now called Subaru StarDrive, which utilizes that Boxer engine, a Lineartronic CVT, and a pair of electric motors. One motor functions as an engine starter, and can also be powered by the engine to function as a hybrid battery generator.

The second motor powers the hybrid and electric driving modes and can also charge the hybrid battery during regenerative braking. Total combined output is 148 hp and 149 lb-ft of torque. As with all Subies, aside from the BRZ, the Symmetrical all-wheel drive system is standard. With its 8.7 inches of ground clearance, the Crosstrek Hybrid also features X-Mode and hill descent control for better off-road driving performance. It can also tow up to 1,000 pounds. Subaru says that the Crosstrek Hybrid has an 8.8 kWh lithium-ion battery, mounted beneath the cargo area, which gives it an all-electric driving range of up to 17 miles. Top speed in EV mode is 65 mph.

The EPA has already rated the new Crosstrek Hybrid at 90 MPGe with a total range of 480 miles. Unfortunately, because of the battery, cargo space is slightly sacrificed. There's a total of 15.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 43.1 when folded, while the non-hybrid model's measurements are 20.8 and 55.3, respectively.

The battery and other electric components also tack on about 500 pounds extra. Both the exterior and interior are carry-over designs, though there a few new items. There's a new exterior paint color, Lagoon Blue Pearl, blue headlight projector rings and unique silver metallic finish on the front grille, lower front bumper and body cladding, and fog lights. In addition, there are unique 18-inch black wheels, low-profile roof rails and black spoiler.

The interior adds new high-contrast gray and navy blue leather seats, door panels and armrests. A $2,500 option package adds a heated steering wheel, power moonroof, and a Harmon Kardon audio system. Subaru's well-regarded EyeSight driver assist safety technology suite is standard.

Pricing begins at $34,995, (about $7,800 more than the base non-hybrid Crosstrek) not including the $995 destination and delivery fee.