Rahul Somvanshi
Subaru will unveil its second all-electric vehicle, the 2026 Trailseeker EV SUV, at the New York International Auto Show on April 16. The new model represents a significant step in Subaru’s expanding electric vehicle strategy as the company aims to increase its footprint in the growing EV market.
The Trailseeker EV follows the Solterra as Subaru’s second electric offering. Like the Solterra, which shares its underpinnings with the Toyota bZ4X, the Trailseeker EV is being developed jointly with Toyota. A teaser image released by Subaru shows only a portion of the vehicle’s rear bumper with black cladding, suggesting the rugged aesthetic typical of Subaru’s SUV lineup.
“Get ready to meet your newest adventure-ready sidekick from Subaru,” the company stated in its announcement, describing the upcoming model as an “all-new 2026 Subaru Trailseeker EV SUV.”
Production and Availability
The Trailseeker EV is expected to enter production around January 2026 at Subaru’s Yajima plant in Japan, where both the Subaru version and its Toyota counterpart will be manufactured. This timing aligns with the 2026 model year designation.
While sharing a platform with Toyota’s upcoming compact electric SUV, both vehicles are likely to feature distinct exterior designs. Industry observers expect Subaru’s version to emphasize the brand’s off-road image with more rugged styling elements that match the “Trailseeker” name.
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Part of a Broader Strategy
The Trailseeker EV is part of Subaru’s ambitious electrification plan. The company has set a target for battery electric vehicles to make up 50% of its global sales by 2030 and plans to introduce eight EV models by the end of 2028. Four of these will be SUVs and are scheduled to arrive by the end of 2026.
Subaru has stated that its next three electric vehicles will be jointly developed with Toyota, similar to the Solterra. After that, the company plans to develop four EVs in-house by 2028, signaling a transition toward more independent electric vehicle production.
Market Position
The Trailseeker EV will compete in the growing compact electric SUV segment alongside vehicles like the Hyundai Kona Electric, Kia Niro EV, Chevrolet Equinox EV, and Nissan Ariya.
The new model arrives at a critical time for Subaru. As Tim Levin noted, “While the automaker has waited in the wings, California-based auto startup Rivian has made a name for itself as the go-to EV brand for outdoorsy people, Subaru’s bread and butter.” The upcoming Rivian R2, priced at $45,000 and scheduled to arrive late next year, will present direct competition in Subaru’s traditional market space.
What We Don’t Know Yet
Many details about the Trailseeker EV remain unknown ahead of its official unveiling. Specific information about battery capacity, estimated range, charging capabilities, and power output has not been released. Similarly, details about interior features, infotainment systems, driver-assistance technologies, and pricing are still forthcoming.
The New York International Auto Show begins on April 16, where Subaru will also reveal the redesigned 2026 Outback, a new generation of its popular lifted wagon. The Subaru reveals are scheduled for April 16, when the auto show opens.
