2026 Subaru Trailseeker Review: More Powerful and More ConventionalAutoGuide.comCraig ColeTue, September 8, 2026 at 6:01 PM UTCAdd us on Google2026 subaru trailseeker review more powerful and more conventionalThe new-for-2026 Subaru Trailseeker is an all-electric midsize SUV that offers a lot more than you might expect.Essentially a slightly elongated version of the recently enhanced Solterra EV, this new Subaru benefits from the same upgrades while offering more power, more versatility, and more capability in a package that looks more conventional than the somewhat avant-garde Solterra.Quick TakeEssentially an elongated version of the Solterra electric SUV (which itself is a rebadge version of the Toyota bZ, but that's a story for another day), the 2026 Subaru Trailseeker offers more conventional exterior styling, greater interior space and significantly enhanced performance in a package that is mostly enjoyable to drive and won't totally blow your budget.2026 Subaru Trailseeker: All The Details2026 Subaru Trailseeker: All The DetailsView GalleryAdvertisementAdvertisement53 photosIn This Case, Bigger Really Is BetterUndoubtedly, the most significant difference between the Trailseeker and Solterra is length. At just shy of 191 inches, the former is about 6 inches longer than its closely related sibling and about an inch taller. These changes provide a good bit more cargo space than the Solterra offers, up to 31.3 cubic feet behind the second-row seat and 74.0 cubes with that 60/40-split rear backrest folded (the numbers are 30.4 and 71.8 cubic feet, respectively, when a panoramic glass roof is fitted).Despite that half-a-foot increase in length, the Trailseeker still only has two rows of seats, just like the Solterra. If you need an EV with room for more than five people, you'll have to shop for something else, perhaps even Subaru's upcoming 2027 Getaway (yes, that's what it's called) SUV.Passengers seated in the Trailseeker's second row are well cared for. This bench is supremely comfortable for 6-foot-tall individuals and plenty supportive, plus the backrests are adjustable; there are even air vents and a fold-down center armrest. Higher-end Limited and Touring models also feature heated outboard seating positions.2026 Subaru Solterra XT First Drive2026 Subaru Solterra XT First DriveDENVER-Many called Subaru's entry into the world of electric vehicles lukewarm. An effort that lacked ultimate conviction. If we're being honest, with the original 2023 Subaru Solterra, these claims weren't wholly unfounded. The Solterra was a decent electric vehicle which offered some of the usual Subaru advantages, like off-road prowess compared to the competitive set. We were pleased well enough when we first drove it, but ultimately, it lacked the power, range, and the charging speed of many of its rivals. Unless one absolutely wanted an electric Subaru above all else, there were other appealing options.But over the past six months, Subaru has been on an onslaught in the electric vehicle landscape. Two new, very appealing models have been introduced, the larger Trailseeker and smaller Uncharted. More importantly though, the Solterra, which competes in one of the hottest market segments, has received a major overhaul, rectifying many of the previous model's weaknesses.Mike SchleeMike Schlee2026 subaru trailseeker review more powerful and more conventionalA Surprisingly Upscale InteriorThe backseat is impressively accommodating, and this Subaru's front buckets are even nicer. A 10-way power driver's chair is standard, though both of these seats are also heated and ventilated, plus the steering wheel is heated, though none of these surfaces get particularly hot, even when at full blast.AdvertisementAdvertisementFor the most part, the Trailseeker's dashboard looks clean and modern, plus many of the materials look great for this class of vehicle. There are plenty of soft plastics and this example even has optional leather upholstery ($300), which feels great. Enhancing the experience, this interior also includes lovely blue accents on the door panels, seats and dashboard.Like practically every modern vehicle, the Trailseeker offers loads of modern technology. A huge 14-inch central touchscreen is standard equipment, and it is home to a familiar Toyota infotainment system that works well even if it's not my favorite multimedia array of all time. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are also supported.Replacing traditional gauges and a head-up display is a single digital instrument cluster mounted high on the dashboard. This setup looks a bit odd and isn't particularly attractive, plus the steering wheel rim, which is flattened on the top and bottom can still block parts of the screen. If that's not enough display real estate for you, Touring models also gain a digital rearview mirror that greatly expands visibility behind the vehicle.Keeping your digital devices juiced, there are four USB type-C ports in the cabin as well as dual 15-Watt wireless charging pads. These are standard equipment and are mounted high the center console. These are super handy to have, though they do limit interior storage space; there aren't many places to stash your knick-knacks in this Subaru.AdvertisementAdvertisementCuriously, there's also no glovebox, so important paperwork has to be stored in the center console.2026 subaru trailseeker review more powerful and more conventional2026 subaru trailseeker review more powerful and more conventionalThat Familiar SUV SilhouetteAnother aspect of the Trailseeker that likely helps improve cargo capacity is the roofline. This vehicle has a more conventional profile with a squared-off rear end, unlike the Solterra, which has a more tapering top. If you're considering a Subaru Outback but want to go electric, the Trailseeker could be the ideal form factor for you.Other than the roof and a slightly restyled rear end, the Trailseeker looks nearly identical to its sibling. The front-end design is nearly identical, and this SUV's flanks include some unusual but still tasteful cues.Top-shelf Touring models, like the one tested here, also gain a contrasting black accent on the hood near the base of the windshield. The model tested here also wears Daybreak Blue Pearl paint, a rich, premium-looking color.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe Trailseeker comes standard with LED headlamps and automatic high beams. Keyless entry with pushbutton start is also included across the model range at no extra charge as is a wide range of amenities like automatic windshield wipers, blind spot monitoring, heated sideview mirrors and, of course, Subaru's famous Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive system to name just a few.Speeds and FeedsAside from its longer body, the Trailseeker's drivetrain is another substantive upgrade over the Solterra's. This SUV has the same 74.7-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack, but its duet of motors delivers a potent 375 horsepower compared to a max of 338 in the Solterra XT and just 233 in lower trims.This healthy output provides borderline shocking acceleration. The Trailseeker can effortlessly and nearly silently whisk you to 60 mph in a Subaru-estimated 4.4 seconds, a damn-impressive performance for any vehicle, let alone an SUV, though I wouldn't be surprised if this vehicle were actually quicker than that. The Trailseeker is seriously speedy when you stand on the accelerator pedal, in fact, it should be the quickest production Subaru yet sold in the U.S.Not only does the Trailseeker's battery provide excellent performance, this pack also delivers respectable range and charging performance. This vehicle provides up to 281 miles of estimated range on a full charge, though higher-end Limited and Touring models are rated at 274. In late 2026, this is a good showing, though it's always nice to see at least 300 miles of range in a vehicle like this.AdvertisementAdvertisementSimilarly, charging performance through the standard NACS socket (the "Tesla port") is competitive, if not quite segment-leading. While DC charging, this Subaru tops out at a decent 150 kilowatts, enough to take the battery from a 10% state of charge to 80% in around 28 minutes.2026 subaru trailseeker review more powerful and more conventionalQuick and PleasantThe Trailseeker has no trouble getting up to speed, delivering effortless acceleration, though the rest of the driving experience isn't nearly as thrilling.This SUV's steering is light and crisp, getting the job done with no noticeable vices, even if it's not particularly engaging. The ride quality is well controlled over various surfaces, providing an upscale experience. Body roll in corners is also minimal, though this is not a vehicle you're likely to push anywhere near the limit.When it's time to slow your roll, the Trailseeker's brake pedal does what it needs to. The pedal feels neither too firm nor too soft, and the transition from regenerative to friction braking is transparent. There are also paddles on the steering wheel spokes that allow you to adjust how aggressive the regenerative braking is when you lift your foot off the accelerator, from almost nothing to quite pronounced, though a true one-pedal driving mode is not offered.2026 subaru trailseeker review more powerful and more conventionalAbout the only dynamic downside to this Subaru is interior noise. The cabin remains nicely hushed most of the time, though some road surfaces do produce a noticeable amount of ruckus.AdvertisementAdvertisementHelping the Trailseeker handle moderate off-roading, it has 8.5 inches of ground clearance, a whisker more than the Solterra. There's also X-Mode, which tailors the all-wheel-drive system's performance to different surfaces for enhanced grip no matter the conditions. There's also Downhill Assist Control to make off-roading just a little easier.Finally, Subaru's EyeSight suite of advanced driver assistance technologies is standard equipment on the Trailseeker. This includes amenities like adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, Front Cross Traffic Assist, Active Lane Change Assist and more. Blind spot monitoring is also standard across the model range, though the top-tier Touring model gains a helpful 360-degree camera system.2026 subaru trailseeker review more powerful and more conventionalThe VerdictYou don't have to spend a fortune to nab a new Trailseeker. Skip the options and go with a no-extra-charge paint color and you can drive home in an entry-level Premium model for around $41,445 including $1,450 in destination fees, which is not a bad price at all. Even the fancy Touring grade tested here isn't outrageous, priced at $48,700 with $395 for Daybreak Blue Pearl paint, $300 for leather trimmings and, of course, those annoying delivery charges.Aside from a few minor complaints, drivers that are looking for an all-electric SUV that offers plenty of comfort and versatility, has respectable range and DC fast charges at a decent rate should absolutely consider the 2026 Subaru Trailseeker. This vehicle's abundant technology and sports car-beating acceleration are also hard to argue with.AdvertisementAdvertisementBecome an AutoGuide insider. Get the latest from the automotive world first by subscribing to our newsletterhere.ProsConsPlenty of comfort in both rowsNo true one-pedal driving modeUpscale interior trimmingsLack of interior storage spaceRespectable driving rangeUnusual instrument clusterExplosive accelerationOccasional road noiseAbundant technologyAffordable pricing