Rahul Somvanshi
Subaru revealed its new all-electric 2026 Trailseeker SUV at the 2025 New York International Auto Show. This second electric vehicle from the Japanese automaker follows the Solterra (introduced in 2023) and arrives as the company reconsiders its overall electric vehicle plans.
The Trailseeker is based on the same platform as the updated 2026 Solterra but stands about six inches longer and nearly an inch taller. This size increase aims to provide more cargo space behind the rear seats, though Subaru hasn’t released specific interior volume numbers yet.
CEO Atsushi Osaki recently stated the company is “re-evaluating our plans, including the timing of investments” due to the “rapidly changing environment” and potential U.S. tariffs. This announcement on May 14, 2025, suggests Subaru’s push into electric vehicles might be more cautious than initially planned, despite the introduction of the Trailseeker.
Power comes from dual electric motors that produce about 375 horsepower, allowing the SUV to reach 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. The 74.7-kilowatt-hour battery provides more than 260 miles of driving range, which falls short of the updated Solterra’s estimated 285 miles. This range difference likely stems from the Trailseeker’s larger size and extra weight.
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For outdoor enthusiasts, the vehicle offers 8.3 inches of ground clearance and Subaru’s X-MODE system with settings for snow, dirt, and mud. It can tow up to 3,500 pounds – enough for a small trailer or boat. The Limited trim includes a 120-volt power outlet in the cargo area for powering devices during outdoor activities.
Charging happens through a standard North American Charging Standard port, giving owners access to Tesla’s Supercharger network. At its maximum 150-kilowatt charging rate, the battery goes from 10% to 80% in about 35 minutes.
Inside, a 14-inch touchscreen sits at the center of the dashboard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The SUV includes dual wireless phone chargers and Subaru’s EyeSight safety features like pre-collision braking, blind spot monitoring, and traffic jam assist.
While official pricing remains unannounced, industry experts estimate the Trailseeker will start around $45,000 when it reaches dealerships in early 2026. It will likely come in three versions: Premium, Limited, and Touring.
The Trailseeker enters a crowded electric SUV market that includes the Hyundai IONIQ 5, Kia EV6, Volkswagen ID.4, and Toyota bZ4X (which shares components with Subaru’s Solterra). Unlike the Solterra, which hasn’t been a raging success since its 2023 introduction, the Trailseeker’s more traditional SUV shape might better match what Subaru buyers expect.
Japanese automakers like Subaru have been slower to embrace fully electric vehicles compared to some American and European companies. The Trailseeker represents Subaru’s attempt to speed up its electric progress while maintaining its identity as a maker of outdoorsy, capable vehicles.
