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Subaru’s New Trail Seeker: A Fresh Take on the Electric SUV
When Subaru unveiled the Trail Seeker, the automotive world expected a quiet, utilitarian wagon‑style electric vehicle. Instead, the brand delivered a bold, performance‑oriented SUV that feels like the electric version of the Outback, but with a sharper edge and a more aggressive stance.
"I wonder why one has more power than the other." – Presenter
Design That Marries Utility and Style
The Trail Seeker’s exterior is unmistakably wagon‑like, thanks to its roof rails, raised headlamps, and a lower cladding that echoes the Toyota Woodland. The design team chose a squared‑off steering wheel and a 7‑inch driver display to give the cabin a modern, tech‑savvy feel, while the 18‑inch wheels with aerodynamic covers add a touch of sportiness. LED lighting is standard, and the rear features a six‑star illuminated logo that glows when the power‑folding mirrors deploy.
Inside, the cabin feels surprisingly quiet. The suspension is tuned softer than the Uncharted, which helps absorb bumps and keeps the ride comfortable on long trips. Ambient lighting offers 64 colors, and the power‑folding mirrors and power tailgate add convenience for everyday use.
Powertrain and Performance
The heart of the Trail Seeker is a 74.7‑kWh battery that delivers up to 444 km (280 mi) of range on a single charge. The electric motor produces 375 hp, and the all‑wheel‑drive system can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds.
"I can remember like 911 turbos that couldn’t do 0 to 60 in 4.4 seconds." – PresenterThe vehicle’s quick acceleration is a highlight for enthusiasts.
Regenerative braking is available in four levels, and the X‑mode terrain setting—borrowed from the Toyota Woodland—provides extra traction on rough roads. The Trail Seeker can tow 3,500 lb and comes with a heat pump, which helps keep cabin temperatures stable while conserving battery life.
Tech‑Rich Interior and Driver Assistance
The base trim includes a 7‑inch driver display, a 14‑inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual wireless chargers, and a six‑speaker audio system. Subaru’s Eyesight driver‑assist technology is standard, offering features such as lane‑keeping aid and automatic emergency braking.
Additional comforts include heated front seats, a heated steering wheel that wraps around the wheel, and a panoramic sunroof with a power shade. The cabin also offers a 11‑speaker Harman Kardon sound system, ventilated front seats, and a heated rear seat option on higher trims. The power‑folding mirrors and a power‑liftgate add practicality for cargo and passengers alike.
Comparison to Subaru’s Other Electrified Models
Subaru’s electric lineup now includes the Outback Electric, Uncharted, and the new Trail Seeker. While the Outback Electric shares the wagon vibe, the Trail Seeker is longer by 5.9 in and taller by almost an inch, giving it a more pronounced wagon feel. The Sultera, Subaru’s Forester‑style SUV, is shorter and offers a similar ground clearance of 8.5 in, but the Trail Seeker’s X‑mode and larger battery give it an edge in off‑road capability.
Toyota’s co‑developed Woodland shares many design cues with the Trail Seeker, but the two vehicles differ in naming and pricing. The Woodland sits above the BZ in Toyota’s lineup, whereas the Trail Seeker is priced alongside the Sultera. Both brands leveraged shared platforms to reduce costs, a strategy that has become common in the EV market.
Practicalities: Cargo, Charging, and Warranty
The Trail Seeker offers 31.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and a total of 74 cubic feet when the rear seats fold flat. A 120‑connector and a 240‑connector are available for charging, and the onboard charger is 11 kW. The vehicle can reach 80 % charge from 10 % in about 30 minutes using a 150 kW DC fast charger.
Standard features include a tire‑repair kit and a 3‑year/60,000‑km warranty. The battery preconditioning feature ensures the battery reaches operating temperature before driving, which helps maintain performance in colder climates.
Pricing and Market Position
In Canada, the Touring trim starts just under $55,000, while the top trim is just under $61,000. In the United States, the base model begins at under $40,000, with the highest trim priced just over $46,500. These prices place the Trail Seeker in a competitive range for a mid‑size electric SUV with a robust feature set.
Final Thoughts
The Trail Seeker is a compelling addition to Subaru’s electric family. Its blend of quick acceleration, ample cargo space, and a well‑equipped interior makes it a strong contender for drivers who want a practical yet spirited electric SUV. While the styling may not appeal to everyone, the vehicle’s performance and technology are hard to overlook.