Subaru’s New Approachable Midsize Is the Brand’s Quickest-Accelerating Car for America Yet

After fielding its first EV (the Solterra) through a joint development initiative with Toyota, Subaru then followed it up this year with the announcement of the Trailseeker.

While the Japanese automaker already pulled the wraps off its all-electric Outback counterpart, it’s only now sharing one of the most important details: price.

Subaru

Now, though, Subaru has spilled the beans. Between some authoritative acceleration and a sub-$40k (sans dealer and destination) starting MSRP, the Trailseeker has the potential to be quite the compelling crossover.

Quietly speedy

Especially when it comes to performance, as a 74.7-kWh lithium-ion battery and a dual-motor drivetrain mean that the Solterra makes a respectable 375 ponies. On the road, this translates to a 4.4-second 0-60 mph sprint, making it the quickest-accelerating production Subaru model sold in the U.S. yet.

Subaru

Of course, with a name like “Trailseeker,” Subaru hasn’t only built the crossover for straight-line speed. Accordingly, it also features 8.3 inches of ground clearance, as well as an X-Mode Dual-Mode System with Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud Modes, Grip Control and Downhill Assist Control.

What’s more, Subaru refined its Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive system specifically for the Trailseeker. To improve the model’s all-electric performance, this meant including a variable torque split for regenerative braking and power distribution among the wheels.

To that end, the model also boasts an onboard preconditioning system for battery charging in colder climates.

Subaru

Thankfully, it also boasts a slightly improved 280-mile range compared to the 260 miles that Subaru had claimed upon reveal. Though still short compared to some of the competition, it can at least charge to 80 percent in as little as 28 minutes on a fast-charger.

Engineered for adventure

In contrast to Subaru’s first EV — the Solterra — the Trailseeker adopts a much more stretched-out form factor. It’s more than six inches longer and one inch taller than its stablemate. Though still a far cry from the station wagons of old, this means that it brings plenty of family-friendly practicality.

Subaru

So, along with 32.2 cubic feet of cargo capacity in the rear trunk space, it also touts a 700-pound static load rating for its roof rails and a 3,500-pound towing capacity. With room for up to four full-size suitcases, it’s comparable to the ever-popular Outback.

That’s not all. In keeping with Subaru’s push for an improved user experience, the Trailseeker will feature a 14-inch central touchscreen — the brand’s largest infotainment interface yet.

Add to that an expansive center console for device charging and storage, some standard waterproof StarTex-trimmed upholstery and a bevy of options made available by three distinct trim levels, and the result is a well-rounded second effort at a Subaru EV.

Subaru

Pricing and availability

According to Subaru, the Trailseeker should be landing in dealerships early 2026. Pricing is set to start from $39,995 for the Premium trim, while the Limited and Touring models will run from $43,995 and $46,555.

With each move up in the hierarchy, the model adds more creature comforts and standard refinements. Think better audio, heated rear seats, leather trim and optional paint and sunroof options.

Subaru

2026 Subaru Trailseeker

• Starts at $39,995

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