2026 Subaru Trailseeker

The Subaru Trailseeker is an all-new EV for 2026; a mechanical cousin of the Toyota bZ Woodland. Whether you want to call it a wagon or an SUV, it’s the closest approximation there is to an electric version of the famous Subaru Outback. Its generous interior space and electric efficiency make it a practical commuter, while its off-road capabilities and surprisingly eager performance make it a practical car with some entertaining qualities. Barring the aforementioned Toyota, there are few EVs on the market today quite like the rugged Trailseeker.

We’ve spent hundreds of hours driving and evaluating this generation of electric SUVs, including the Subaru Trailseeker.

The Subaru Trailseeker starts a little lower than the Toyota bZ Woodland because the Subaru has three trims while the Toyota has two. It’s also in the same pricing territory as the Tesla Model Y, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and Kia EV6.

Before buying a Trailseeker, check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price to know what you should really pay. Subaru Trailseeker resale value is about average for the segment. Recouping more money when selling a vehicle can mean a bigger down payment and lower monthly payments on the next one.

Quick performance isn’t a virtue typically associated with Subaru SUVs, but that’s what the new Trailseeker delivers. Its standard powertrain is a dual-electric-motor setup with a net output of 375 horsepower and an estimated 330 lb-ft of torque. Naturally, all-wheel drive (AWD) comes standard, which helps motivate this EV from 0-60 mph in just 4.4 seconds. For reference, that’s more than a full second quicker than the Subaru WRX sport compact. In typical EV fashion, the Trailseeker is quick, quiet, and smooth, meaning you don’t compromise comfort and refinement for lively performance.

Handling, steering, and braking are all pretty predictable while driving the Trailseeker on the street. As its rugged aesthetics suggest, the Trailseeker can get pretty adventurous when the pavement ends. Its 8.5-inch ground clearance, all-wheel drive system, and dual-function X-Mode add up to a capable off-roader that makes the Trailseeker live up to its name. Whether you have snow, dirt, or mud underneath you, this Subaru can tackle just about any terrain that the average owner will encounter.

Powertrain

Interior space is one of the Subaru Trailseeker’s biggest strengths. Even though it has the same wheelbase as the more road-oriented Subaru Solterra EV, the Trailseeker has an extra six inches of overall length, which translates to more interior room. The back seats are plenty roomy for kids and adults alike, with 35.3 inches of legroom. Meanwhile, the large cargo hold has 47 cubic feet behind the second row and 75 cubic feet behind the first row. That’s even more cargo room behind the back seats than the Subaru Outback, and more than most of the Trailseeker’s electric rivals.

The interior design of the Trailseeker is a little unorthodox, with a “squircle” (squared circle) shaped steering wheel and a digital gauge cluster that’s farther away from the driver than is typical. However, we found that once we had the driver’s seat and the steering column adjusted just right, it was easy to get used to. There are also thoughtful storage solutions like a wide-open space beneath the center stack that’s perfect for a purse, and we love that it comes standard with dual wireless charging pads. Seat comfort is good for long-distance drives, and the materials get pretty nice in the upper trims, with genuine leather upholstery available in the top Touring trim.

Dual-Function X-Mode
This is optional on many Subaru SUVs, but it’s standard on every Trailseeker. It introduces off-road drive modes, including Snow/Dirt mode and Deep Snow/Mud mode, in addition to Normal, Power/Sport, and Eco modes, ensuring the right configuration for almost any situation.

NACS port
We always love to see a NACS charging port come standard on an EV; it’s the Tesla-style plug, much smaller than the traditional CCS port. That means it’s easier for smaller hands to plug and unplug. It supports native charging via the Tesla Supercharger network and can charge from 10 to 80 percent in as little as 28 minutes with DC Fast Charging.

14-inch screen
This generously sized display is home to a user-friendly, feature-rich infotainment system that includes wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Dual wireless charging ports under the screen also come standard, and a Harman Kardon premium audio system is optional.