Subaru has just debuted its second all-electric SUV and has given it a name invoking the spirit of adventure. The Subaru Trailseeker is set to grace the roads for the 2026 model year, and with it comes the high anticipation of Subie fans across America. For a manufacturer that markets its famous Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and X-MODE for all the off-road readiness you could ever need, it is a bit surprising that it’s taken this long for Subaru to give us a model with a name that truly inspires images of off-roading ability. Sure, names like the Crosstrek and the Forester allude to time spent outdoors, but the Trailseeker has a ring to it that just lays down the law about what this all-new midsize SUV is about. And with 8.3 inches of ground clearance, you can be sure the new kid on the block is ready for going off-road.
So What Can It Do?
This midsize BEV is larger than the Solterra, providing more cargo room and a taller roof for all the gear you need when you head out on the trails. Electric motors on the front and rear axles provide up to 375 hp, more than the 2026 Solterra’s 338 hp, for a 0-60 mph time of about 4.4 seconds. You won’t have to worry about how the Trailseeker can take on normal roads, but what about its capability off-road? Does it live up to its name?
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive sure is a great start to an off-road-ready machine, but we all know that you need more than all-wheel drive to tackle tough terrain. Fortunately, the 2026 Subaru Trailseeker also comes with the X-MODE Dual-Mode System. This system includes Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud modes to ensure you have traction, no matter the terrain or the weather. Whether your journey includes muddy treks, steep inclines, or inclement weather, Grip Control has you covered at low speeds, and Downhill Assist Control is designed to make sure you maintain your speed on steep and uneven terrain by applying brake pressure when needed.
The Trailseeker’s specialized suspension and AWD system are tuned to provide essential straight-line stability as it traverses various trails and terrains, while front and rear acceleration sensors allow it to adapt to dynamic loads to make the ride more confident and in control. The 2026 Trailseeker also features standard raised roof rails and a 3,500 lb towing capacity for more convenience and storage options for all your travels, making this a decent EV model for mild to moderate off-roading adventures.
Tech-Savvy and Ready for the Road Ahead
The 2026 Trailseeker gives you plenty of features to help you stay connected out on the road. It offers the largest infotainment touchscreen ever appearing in a Subaru at 14 inches. This definitely isn’t the biggest on the market, but I will say it’s a good size to provide you with the infotainment you want and make you feel the upgraded cabin experience without going overboard. Wireless smartphone projection is practically a given at this point, so you can access your favorite media while you drive, but the Trailseeker does go a little further as it offers two wireless smartphone chargers instead of one.
Is the Trailseeker for You?
When it comes to off-roading vehicles, the Trailseeker does a good job of providing the capabilities you need for mild to moderate off-roading fun. We don’t yet have all the details about this all-new model from Subaru, so we’re excited to see if any more off-road-ready features are included, but as it stands, the Trailblazer is shaping up to be a decent off-roader for anyone just starting out in the hobby and seeking to explore some trails. Its estimated 260-mile range on a full charge makes it a decent middle-of-the-pack EV for eco-conscious drivers who want to leave the gas pump behind, and the connectivity features make it a comfortable modern vehicle to drive daily. All in all, the 2026 Subaru Trailseeker seems best suited for drivers who need a sturdy, updated commuter or family vehicle that can facilitate trips to the campsite and ensure safe travels during snowy winter months, muddy spring vacations, and moderate off-road excursions.
