Subaru has long cultivated a reputation for producing durable, all-wheel-drive sports utility vehicles that excel in demanding conditions, whether on challenging trails or in adverse weather. Models like the Outback, Forester, and Crosstrek are celebrated not just as elevated hatchbacks but as truly capable machines. The brand's initial electric offering, the Solterra, maintained this commitment to Subaru's core DNA, even with its joint development alongside Toyota. Earlier this year, Subaru reinforced its electric vision with the introduction of the Trailseeker, a larger electric SUV designed to appeal to North American outdoor enthusiasts.
Now, a third electric vehicle is poised to join Subaru's growing lineup, characterized by its more compact dimensions and a rather intriguing designation: the Subaru Uncharted. While "Uncharted" might bring to mind popular video games or adventurous television series, it perfectly aligns with Subaru's established brand identity. Unlike the more conventional, yet still compelling, Solterra, or the somewhat ambiguously named Trailseeker—which may not be ideally suited for extensive off-road journeys—the 'Uncharted' moniker resonates more authentically with a brand renowned for its outdoor-oriented vehicles.
This new model marks Subaru's third electric vehicle and the second entirely new EV specifically targeting the American consumer base. The 'Uncharted' name was trademarked by Subaru last year, alongside other adventure-themed provisional names such as 'Getaway,' 'Trailhead,' and 'Highroad.' It remains uncertain whether these other names will eventually manifest as production vehicles, but it is clear that Subaru is developing a series of models with names that evoke a sense of exploration, rugged terrain, and the thrill of discovery, even if some of these names might initially strike as unconventional.
Specific details regarding the Subaru Uncharted are currently limited. However, given that both the Solterra and Trailseeker share Toyota's underlying architecture, and considering the official confirmation of their partnership for this new model in March, insights from Toyota's EV offerings provide some clues. The press release concerning the Uncharted's launch indicated it would be a compact vehicle, suggesting a strong resemblance to the recently unveiled Toyota C-HR EV. This vehicle is slightly smaller than the Solterra but boasts enhanced performance with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, delivering a combined output of 338 horsepower. It is equipped with a 74.7-kWh battery, offering an estimated range of 290 miles.
The global debut of the Uncharted is scheduled for July 17th at 7:30 PM ET, to be broadcast across Subaru's official social media and corporate platforms. The sole teaser image released showcases a distinctive black-over-red two-tone exterior, a continuous rear light bar, a sleek, coupe-inspired roofline, and the 'Subaru' wordmark prominently displayed across the tailgate. While pricing information is yet to be disclosed, if the Uncharted is positioned below the Solterra's starting price of nearly $40,000, it could emerge as Subaru's most accessible electric vehicle in the American market.