Outdoorsy automaker Subaru arrived at the 2025 New York Auto Show this week with two new electric SUV debuts. The updated Solterra EV sees performance and range improvement that make it a more attractive option, and visual tweaks that make it less visually attractive. It’s joined by the new Trailseeker, a larger, taller electric SUV that boasts more interior space for cargo, whether for a Costco run or a weekend adventure.
What’s new, Subaru?
The updated Solterra is said to boast more than 25% more range than last year, thanks to a small bump in battery capacity to 74.7 kilowatt-hours (+1.9 kWh) and improvements to power management systems. The electric crossover now cruises for around 285 miles per charge, according to Subaru’s estimates. That still won’t win it any “longest ranging” awards, but any range improvement is a welcome upgrade.
Improved battery preconditioning logic has allowed Subaru to bump the EV’s DC fast charging rate to 150 kW, so at least charging stops will be a touch faster. The Solterra can now zip from 10% to 80% state of charge in just under 35 minutes. The 2026 model also comes standard with a North American Charging System port, enabling native access to the Tesla Supercharger network of fast charging stations.
Upgrades to the EV’s standard dual motor powertrain also yield performance improvements, with the standard configuration climbing to 233 combined horsepower. At the top of the lineup, the performance-oriented Solterra XT spec steps up to 338 combined horsepower, enabling a sprint to 60 mph in under 5 seconds. Under the hood, tweaks to the power and traction control systems further improve performance, while suspension and power steering updates promise improved handling and control.
Outside, the EV features myriad design tweaks, including a new illuminated Subaru logo and reshaped headlamps. Depending on the paint color chosen, the Solterra will also now be offered with body colored fenders. The idea is that this will give the EV a more urban feel than the rugged, matte fenders, but I think it leaves the electric SUV looking extremely generic.
Inside the SUV gains a larger 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system with standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, new dual 15-watt wireless phone chargers for the front row and high-power USB-C charging ports for the second row.
2026 Subaru Trailseeker EV
Alongside the updated Solterra, Subaru also rolled out the new 2026 Subaru Trailseeker, which is a terrible name, but I suppose Pathfinder and Trailblazer were already taken. The Trailseeker is essentially a larger version of the Solterra EV, boasting the same standard dual-motor all-wheel drive system, the same class-leading 8.3 inches of ground clearance and receiving all of the same powertrain and battery improvements as its smaller sibling.
That means the same 74.7-kWh battery pack and the same improved 150-kW charging speed via its NACS port. However, the Trailseeker’s range drops to just 260 miles between charges, likely thanks to the increased weight of the larger EV and a boost to 375 combined horsepower for its dual motor system. The extra oomph helps the Trailseeker accelerate from 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds and powers it up to a 3,500-pound towing capacity.
Meanwhile, the extra footprint and higher roofline grants the Trailseeker more room for people and cargo, though Subaru hasn’t yet announced specific interior volume numbers. And to help power accessories, camping equipment and other electronics on the trail, the EV also features a 120-volt outlet in the rear area for vehicle-to-load power on the go.
Arriving next year
The 2026 Subaru Solterra is expected to arrive in the US in late 2025. Shortly thereafter, the 2026 Trailseeker will find its way to dealerships in early 2026. Pricing and specs should begin trickling out over the next few months.
