MotorTrend’s 2026 Subaru Trailseeker First Drive

For those who mourn the loss of the wagon proportions of the Outback in its most recent redesign, Subaru has quickly offered a replacement. Sure, the new Trailseeker has all the off-road capability of today’s crossovers, and probably more, but its long, low proportions clearly recall the station-wagon charm the Outback had for its first 30 years, amplified by the fact that it shares the front-end styling with another, less wagon-like model. This includes the six-element DRLs that symbolize the six stars of the Subaru logo. There is a catch, if you can call it that, which is that the Trailseeker has an all-electric drivetrain. Motor Trend reports on its first drive of the Trailseeker, and Michael Hohl Subaru summarizes the most recent redesign. Subaru has quickly offered a replacement. Sure, the new has all the off-road capability of today’s crossovers, and probably more, but its long, low proportions clearly recall the station-wagon charm the Outback had for its first 30 years, amplified by the fact that it shares the front-end styling with another, less wagon-like model. This includes the six-element DRLs that symbolize the six stars of the Subaru logo. Michael Hohl Subaru summarizes their findings.

Despite its initial impression, the Trailseeker is more than just a Solterra with a longer roof. To begin, it is 6 inches longer, and its motor delivers 375 horsepower compared to the Solterra’s 328. It uses the same 74.7-kWh lithium-ion battery as the Solterra and features the Subaru-developed EV Symmetrical all-wheel-drive system with the X-MODE® Dual-Mode System, including Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud Modes, Grip Control, Downhill Assist Control, and 8.5 inches of ground clearance.

Range is up to an estimated 288 miles with 18-inch wheels and 274 miles with 20-inch wheels. It has a public on-road charging speed of 150 kW, allowing a 10% to 80% state of charge in about 28 minutes. The model features an NACS port for compatibility with the Tesla Supercharger system.

Inside, the Trailseeker showcases its collaboration with Toyota with a 9-inch digital driver display that effectively functions as a head-up display. To enhance visibility, Subaru outfits the steering wheel with what Motor Trend calls a hexagonal design, though it is more of a rounded wheel with a wide, flattened top and bottom. The Trailseeker features a distinct dashboard design from the Solterra, although many controls are similarly arranged. The standard 14-inch center touchscreen runs on Toyota’s operating system and includes wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, while the center console provides two wireless phone charging pads. Other standard features include heated front seats, dual-zone climate control with physical controls, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and ambient lighting.

Of course, the model also comes standard with the Subaru EyeSight® suite of safety and driver assistance technologies, including Traffic Jam Assist for low-speed hands-free driving, Active Lane Change Assist, and Front Cross-Traffic Alert, along with other safety features such as Blind-Spot Monitor, Reverse automatic braking, and a Driver monitor distraction mitigation system.

The squared-off rear roofline means there is 32.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which is just under the 34.6 cubic feet of the 2026 Outback. No cargo space figure is yet available for when the rear seats are folded, but it also likely comes just short of the Outback. The standard roof rack can hold a static 700 pounds, which is more than enough for even the most overfed rooftop tent campers.

Motor Trend found the Trailseeker to be “satisfyingly swift” and goes on to say, “if the Trailseeker’s 4.4-second 0–60-mph estimate bears out in our eventual independent testing, it would be far quicker than the current WRX.”

The model is no slouch after the pavement ends either, with Motor Trend stating, “There’s a layer of all-terrain capability, too. This isn’t the only electric SUV with a rugged disposition, but the Trailseeker might be more confident getting down a fire road than typical low-slung electric crossovers.” 

Motor Trend describes the Trailseeker’s more important on-road attributes thusly: “the Trailseeker drives nicely: easy and uncomplicated as befits a crossover like this. The steering is relaxed yet predictable and accurate; its six-sided rim feels natural to hold. Between the cushy suspension and low center of gravity, ride quality feels absorbent and stable for comfortable, secure handling.” 

The Trailseeker may be in the Michael Hohl Subaru showroom by the time you read this. If not, look for it soon. MSRP starts at $39,995 or $41,445 with destination charges for the Premium model, with $43,995 for the Limited, and $46,555. Even if you don’t miss station wagon proportions, the Trailseeker is worth…seeking and determining how well it can fit into your life. Check the Michael Hohl Subaru inventory for the model’s arrival.