If you’ve been holding your breath for an electric version of the beloved Subaru Outback, you might want to pay attention to the Trail seeker. This isn’t just another electric SUV trying to win over adventure-seekers – it’s Subaru’s serious attempt at creating an electric vehicle that actually feels like a Subaru.
What Makes the Trail seeker Special?
The Trail seeker represents something quite different in the electric vehicle space. While most EVs focus purely on efficiency or luxury, this one prioritizes what Subaru owners actually care about: capability, reliability, and the confidence to tackle whatever road lies ahead.
Revealed at the 2025 New York Auto Show, the Trail seeker stretches about six inches longer than the existing Solterra, giving families the extra cargo space they’ve been asking for. With approximately 375 horsepower and standard all-wheel drive, Subaru claims a maximum range of more than 260 miles.
Performance That Actually Matters
Forget the usual EV marketing speak about instant torque. The Trail seeker delivers what adventure-minded drivers need: 280kW of power, giving it a 0-60mph time of 4.4 seconds. More importantly, it maintains 211mm of ground clearance and includes Subaru’s X-Mode system, with selectable Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud modes.
The real-world capability extends to towing too. The Trail seeker can tow up to 3500 pounds (1588kg), making it genuinely useful for boat owners, camper trailers, or anyone who needs to haul gear for weekend adventures.
Technical Specifications That Matter
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 74.7kWh lithium-ion |
| Power Output | 280kW (375HP) |
| Drive System | Dual-motor AWD |
| Range | 418km+ (260+ miles) |
| Ground Clearance | 211mm (8.3 inches) |
| Towing Capacity | 1,587kg (3,500 lbs) |
| Charging Speed | Up to 150kW DC fast charging |
| 0-100km/h | 4.4 seconds |
Inside Story: Practical Design Choices
The interior features a 14-inch screen – the largest fitted in a Subaru to date. But unlike some EVs that go overboard with technology, the Trail seeker maintains physical controls where they make sense. There’s a large centre console with wireless smartphone charging, and metallic touches to bring a sense of occasion to the cabin.
The design prioritizes durability over flash. Up front the interior sees a squared-off steering wheel, hard-wearing synthetic seat trim – exactly what you’d want in a vehicle designed for actual adventures rather than just weekend grocery runs.
Safety and Technology Integration
The Trail seeker includes Subaru Eye Sight – the company’s suite of Driver Assistance Tech – bringing AEB, Blind Spot Monitors and Adaptive Cruise Control. This isn’t revolutionary technology, but it’s proven, reliable safety equipment that works consistently.
Australian Availability: The Waiting Game
Here’s where things get interesting for Australian buyers. When pressed on the chances for the Trailseeker coming to Australia, Subaru Australia’s general manager Scott Lawrence refused to talk specifics, but added promisingly: “Watch this space for some exciting announcements”.
The Trail seeker name has already been trademarked locally, strongly suggesting that this electric SUV could hit showrooms in the near future. The timing makes sense too – it’s expected in Australia in 2026, following the US launch.
The Bigger Picture: Why This Matters
The Trail seeker isn’t trying to be the most advanced electric vehicle on the market. Instead, it’s positioning itself as the most practical one for people who actually use their vehicles for more than urban commuting.
In Europe, the Trail seeker might even adopt the “E-Outback” or “Outback EV” name, which would make perfect sense given its wagon-like proportions and practical focus.
Competition and Market Position
Speculation has the Trail seeker starting at approximately $62,000 in the USA, which would position it competitively against other mid-size electric SUVs while offering genuinely better off-road capability than most competitors.
The Trail seeker will exist alongside the updated Solterra rather than replacing it, giving Subaru customers choice between a more compact EV and this larger, more practical option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will the Subaru Trail seeker be available in Australia?
A: Subaru Australia hasn’t confirmed timing, but 2026 is expected, following the US launch in early 2026.
Q: How does the Trail seeker differ from the Solterra?
A: The Trail seeker is 6 inches longer, has more power (375HP vs less), and offers greater cargo space while maintaining the same battery capacity.
Q: Can the Trail seeker actually handle off-road driving?
A: Yes, with 211mm ground clearance, X-Mode system, and 1,587kg towing capacity, it’s designed for genuine adventure use.
