Subaru affirms plans for three electric Sports Utility Vehicles in 2026
Subaru Unveils Three New Electric Models: Uncharted, E-Outback, and Solterra Facelift
Subaru is expanding its electric vehicle (EV) portfolio with the introduction of three new models: the Uncharted, E-Outback, and the facelifted Solterra. These vehicles are set to hit the market in the coming year, positioning Subaru as a key player in the compact electric SUV segment.
Subaru Uncharted
The Subaru Uncharted, scheduled for release early in 2026, is a new, independently developed electric compact crossover. It offers two trims – Premium FWD with a single motor (221 hp) and Sport/GT AWD with a dual motor setup (338 hp). The Premium FWD variant is estimated to offer a range of over 300 miles, while the AWD version can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 5 seconds.
The Uncharted is designed with modern performance in mind, boasting strong AWD capability and fast charging. It supports 150 kW DC fast charge, allowing for 10–80% charge in approximately 30 minutes with battery preconditioning for cold climates. Subaru's All-Wheel-Drive system and suspension tuning focus on improved handling on loose surfaces, setting it apart from many competitors.
Subaru E-Outback
The Subaru E-Outback, also set for release in early 2026, is a rebadged Toyota EV model, closely related to Toyota's electric Outback counterpart. While specifications have not been fully detailed yet, it is expected to share key features with the Toyota model.
Subaru Solterra Facelift
The facelifted Solterra, due for release by late 2025, retains its AWD and 211 mm ground clearance, but features updated design elements. It offers a range similar to the current Solterra, approximately 250-300 miles.
Comparisons and Release Dates
The Solterra is a close sibling to the Toyota bZ4X, sharing platform and key specs. The facelift keeps it competitive in specs and design updates. The E-Outback, a rebadged Toyota model, is mainly for the European market and follows the Solterra facelift's release by a few months.
Additional Details
The Uncharted features body cladding for protection and a high ground clearance of 210mm. The larger 77kWh battery in the single-motor Uncharted provides a range of 363 miles. The Uncharted has a towing capacity of 1,500kg.
The new Solterra features a 73.1kWh battery, allowing it to travel up to 310 miles on a full charge. The Solterra's towing capacity has doubled to 1,500kgs.
All versions of the Uncharted come with a 22kW on-board charger. The Uncharted and updated Soltera will launch in the UK early next year. The E-Outback is scheduled for a summer 2026 launch.
The Uncharted can accelerate from 0 to 62mph in 4.8 seconds, while the dual-motor Uncharted will have a 77kWh battery and a range of 292 miles.
In conclusion, Subaru's new electric models offer a mix of proprietary design (Uncharted) and rebadged Toyota models (E-Outback, facelifted Solterra) to leverage Toyota’s EV architecture in different markets. These vehicles are set to compete with the likes of the Hyundai Kona Electric, Kia Niro EV, and Volvo EX30 in the compact electric SUV market segment.
- Subaru's Uncharted model, set to launch early in 2026, will be an independent electric compact crossover offering two trims, with the Premium FWD variant expected to offer a range exceeding 300 miles.
- The Subaru E-Outback, also releasing in early 2026, is a rebranded Toyota EV model closely related to the electric Outback counterpart, sharing many features with the Toyota model.
- The Solterra Facelift, due for release by late 2025, will retain its AWD and 211 mm ground clearance while featuring updated design elements, offering a range similar to the current Solterra.
- Subaru's new electric models, including the Uncharted and facelifted Solterra, will compete with other compact electric SUVs like the Hyundai Kona Electric, Kia Niro EV, and Volvo EX30, leveraging Toyota’s EV architecture to target diverse markets.