​​2026 Subaru Trailseeker Named Mudfest ”Outdoor Activity Vehicle of the Year”​ 

If the 2026 Subaru Trailseeker electric vehicle looks like it can follow an Outback onto an unimproved forest road, it is because it absolutely can. Recently, journalist members of the Northwest Automotive Press Association put the 2026 Trailseeker through its paces during the annual Mudfest evaluation event and not only found our new EV crossover to be very capable, but capable enough to be named the “Outdoor Activity Vehicle of the Year.”

NWAPA regularly gathers a variety of vehicles at a members-only event just outside of Seattle for two days’ worth of exhaustive vehicle testing. While the first day is focused on track testing, autocross runs, and street drives, the second day is dedicated for off-road maneuvers. The 2026 Trailseeker was available to NWAPA members to test on both days, competing in the two-row family SUV class. Not only did the Trailseeker earn a victory in that class, but the group of journalists also deemed it the “Best Electrified Activity Vehicle.” 

What makes the 2026 Trailseeker a winning combination? 

At its core, the 2026 Trailseeker is powered by two electric motors. Together, they put down 375 horsepower while driving both axles through an electronic Symmetrical all-wheel-drive system.  

Energy to the two electric motors is delivered through a 74.7-kilowatt-hour battery pack. Recharging is done through a native NACS port, although you can get a CCS adapter to charge at tens of thousands of DC Fast Charging stations across the country. At those charging stations, you can return 10 to 80 percent of your state of charge in as little as 28 minutes. The range on the 2026 Trailseeker is estimated to be between 274 and 281 miles. 

Tackling the off-road course was made easier through the dual-mode X-MODE traction management system. This can be set in the Dirt/Snow mode for lighter conditions, or the Mud/ Deep Snow setting for more challenging conditions. These settings are also augmented by technologies including Grip Control and Downhill Assist Control, all of which are designed to ensure drivers retain safe control of the vehicle as they make their way over challenging terrain. 

Another factor for Trailseeker’s success is its refined suspension tuning. On-road, the four-wheel independent suspension design, complete with double wishbones in the rear, provides an incredibly smooth and comfortable ride quality. Meanwhile, its impressive 8.5-inches of ground clearance allows for plenty of clearance when venturing off the beaten path. 

As members of NWAPA, the team at OffRoad Xtreme took the 2026 Trailseeker through its paces. Its editors concluded that “[the Trailseeker’s] combination of on-road performance and off-road prowess made it a jack of all trades. If it’s like other Subarus, it’s destined to get more off-road ability via the aftermarket, turning this Trailseeker into a real adventure mobile.” 

The 2026 Trailseeker is now available at Michal Hohl Subaru. Contact us to start your adventure in one soon!