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Monday, March 9, 2026

IN THE DRIVEWAY: The 2026 Subaru Trailseeker



After entering the EV market a few years ago with the Solterra, Subaru is doubling down on electric vehicles, by introducing two more EVS for 2026 - the compact Uncharted and the mid-size Trailseeker, which is what I happen to be in this week.

The Trailseeker can be looked at as simply a longer version of the Solterra. Their wheelbase measurements are the same, as is room for the front and rear passengers. But the Trailseeker is more than six inches longer and nearly an inch taller, resulting in a more SUV-like profile and more cargo space. The Trailseeker’s styling cues align more closely with Subaru’s flagship models like the Outback and Forester, featuring lots of body cladding and an overall style that makes it a natural fit for outdoor enthusiasts.

In typical Subaru fashion, the Trailseeker comes standard with all-wheel drive. Power is delivered through two motors, one at the front and one in the rear, with a combined output of 375 horsepower, which is 37 more horses than the Solterra makes. The setup makes the Trailseeker capable of hitting 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds, resulting in it being the quickest Subaru model sold in the U.S.

Supplying the electric motors is a 74.7-kWh lithium-ion battery pack that can travel up to 281 miles on a single charge. It supports DC fast charging up to 150 kW and can reach an 80% charge in approximately 28–30 minutes. It uses a standard NACS charging port.

The TrailSeeker is offered in three trim levels. The base Premium, the mid-level Limited and the top-of-the-line Touring. The Premium is nicely equipped with heated front seats, a power rear hatch and dual wireless phone chargers. The Limited gets larger, 20-inch wheels, a heated steering wheel and heated rear seats. Going with the Touring adds a panoramic sunroof, vented front seats and radiant leg warmers for front passengers. Pricing for the TrailSeeker starts at $41,445. The tester arrived as a Premium and has an estimated price of $41,840.

Inside, the Trailseeker's cabin is the spitting image of the Solterra's, with the same design, layout, and materials. The Trailseeker uses a rectangular steering wheel, and behind it, there is a high-mounted digital gauge cluster. Dominating the center part of the dash is a big touchscreen for the infotainment system and a raised center console that houses the rotary shift knob. The steep windshield and large side glass give the cabin an airy feel.

On the road, the Trailseeker provides a comfortable ride, and it is plenty quick. If there is a desire to go off-the-beaten-path for some exploring (this is a TrailSeeker afterall), the specialized drive modes for snow, deep snow, dirt and mud along with 8.5 inches of ground clearance will definitely provide a helpful advantage.

The Trailseeker is a step up from the Solterra, offering more power and more room. But in the growing world of EVs, on paper, the Trailseeker falls behind in terms of range and power. But to many Subaru buyers, that may not matter. Subaru customers are very loyal and knowing that an EV like the Trailseeker is available, may be all that they need. And they will not be disappointed.