2026 Subaru Trailseeker first drive: The most quintessentially Subaru EV yet

Subaru is expanding its electric vehicle offerings with the introduction of the Trailseeker, a model designed specifically for the American market. Built alongside the popular Forester at Subaru's Lafayette, Indiana assembly plant, the Trailseeker utilizes a shared skateboard chassis developed in collaboration with Toyota. What sets the Trailseeker apart from its predecessors, the Solterra and Uncharted, is its unmistakable Subaru design language. Featuring the familiar plastic cladding reminiscent of the Forester and Crosstrek, the Trailseeker boasts an optional two-tone paint job that complements its traditional station wagon silhouette. One of its standout features is the extended rear canopy, purposefully engineered to accommodate a full-sized dog crate, catering to outdoor enthusiasts and pet owners alike. The Trailseeker is equipped with a robust dual-motor powertrain that prioritizes all-wheel drive, setting it apart from the Uncharted, which offers a front-wheel-drive option. With an impressive ground clearance of 8.5 inches (216 mm), it underscores its off-road capabilities. The vehicle is powered by a 74.7 kWh battery, delivering a commendable range of 281 miles (452 km) at a starting price of $39,995. While the Trailseeker's range is slightly less than that of the Uncharted, this is attributed to its more rugged design, which aligns closely with the Solterra, sharing many structural elements from the nose to the C-pillar. Despite its adventurous enhancements, Subaru has managed to keep the curb weight just below 4,400 pounds (1,995 kg), making it lighter than competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 XRT and Honda Prologue AWD Touring, which offers higher ranges with larger batteries. The Trailseeker exemplifies Subaru's commitment to creating vehicles that are both practical and adventure-ready.