Subaru has a greater number of drivers interested in electric vehicles than nearly any other manufacturer. It’s clever—if not particularly well-timed—that it’s adding two additional models to its lineup for 2026. There’s the forthcoming Trailseeker, which we’ll cover next week. First on the list, joining the established Solterra in the lineup is the 2026 Subaru Uncharted.
Practically identical to the all-new Toyota C-HR, and slightly smaller than the Solterra, the Uncharted embarks on a new direction for Subaru EVs, one that gives a nod to one of the more audacious Subarus from the past. That trailblazer was the SVX, a large two-door hatchback AWD coupe that featured unconventional elements like a radio concealed behind faux burl walnut, a window-within-a-window design on the sides, and a rear wing large enough to serve hors d’oeuvres from.
The Uncharted gently ventures in that direction, though it’s not the unexpected oddity that the SVX turned out to be. More daring than the Solterra, the Uncharted displays a narrow line across the front that connects its LED running lights to its emblem. It bulges around its fenders in a dual wave that surges into a rip current above its rear doors. The back quarters taper into the pillar and narrow taillights to streamline the body before it arcs downwards. It’s a sleek silhouette that would appear even sleeker if it was lower to the ground, but alas, it’s a Subaru: the ground clearance of 8.2 inches isn’t merely advisable, it’s nearly required.
With a 108.3-inch wheelbase and a length of 177.8 inches, the Uncharted maximizes space from its footprint. The driver sits in an adjustable seat, facing a squircle steering wheel and a smaller digital display for a somewhat perplexing range of gauges; information overlaps itself, resulting in elements like brake regeneration too intertwined. A wide center console with dual phone charging pads rests over a push-and-twist gear selector, underneath a significant 14-inch touchscreen that would feel at home in a Toyota pickup, as an identical one exists there as well. There’s more room for passengers than in a Crosstrek, and over 25 cubic feet of storage behind the rear seats—but taller individuals may find the 36.4 inches of rear-seat headroom challenging in top-tier Uncharted SUVs with the panoramic roof.
Subaru plans to release three different Uncharted EV models. The entry-level variant, a Premium FWD with a single motor and front-wheel drive, will be available only in limited quantities. It features the same 74.7-kWh lithium-ion battery as the dual-motor Sport and GT models, but offers 221 horsepower, while the dual-motor, all-wheel-drive versions produce 338 hp. The base model attains a range rating of 308 miles; the Sport achieves 287 miles; and the GT variant reaches 273 miles of range. All models come with a NACS charging port and a maximum charging rate of 150 kW, allowing for 10% to 80% charging in as little as 28 minutes. Subaru promises a full charge in approximately seven hours on a Level 2 outlet.
The Uncharted drives more reminiscent of the SVX than many may recall. That unyielding two-door boasted a smooth drivetrain and a beautifully managed ride. The Uncharted draws inspiration from the past with its hassle-free EV power and collected demeanor. Credit those 4,000-plus pounds of curb weight with smoothing out bumpy roads into something more agreeable. And like the SVX, it leaves some sporty touches unaddressed. Paddle controls can increase regeneration, for instance, but there’s no authentic one-pedal mode. While it provides Eco/Normal drive modes on the standard model and Power on the Sport and GT variants, the Uncharted simply responds as required, adjusting remotely and executing its driving tasks without fuss or much feedback. With its low center of gravity and impressively swift acceleration—at 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds, it’s faster from a standstill than a base Polestar 4—it possesses that common EV sensation of capability.
I guided an Uncharted through an off-road trail at Lake Elsinore east of the California shoreline, where the X-Mode engaged a wheel or two before navigating through a series of alternating jumps and up-and-down bumps during a chilly, awfully wet day. A Snow/Dirt mode and a Mud mode combined with a downhill cruise control feature to smoothly return it to sea level and its final stop. You and it will endure any Airbnb adventure into the hills for a long weekend.
Pleasantly crafted and intelligently designed, the 2026 Uncharted carries a hefty price tag as well. The starting price of $36,445 for the Uncharted Premium FWD, about $5,000 less than the Toyota C-HR, features orange interior highlights that stretch across the dashboard behind that large 14-inch display, alongside Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Additional features include 18-inch wheels, LED illumination, wireless smartphone charging, a power driver’s seat, a power tailgate, and all the safety attributes you’d expect, including speed-limit alerts and low-speed driver assistance. Since it’s a limited-availability special, prepare to pay up to $41,245 for the Sport, which includes a power seat for the front passenger, surround-view cameras, a heated steering wheel, synthetic leather upholstery, and X-Mode with hill descent control. The $45,245 GT incorporates a panoramic glass roof, ventilated front seats, 20-inch wheels, and Harmon Kardon audio system.
If you’ve considered a Hyundai Kona Electric, Nissan Leaf, or Volvo EX30, the Uncharted steps up as a strong competitor. Admittedly, the starting price would have appeared far better if last year’s EV incentives were still active. The past may be behind us, but Subaru’s electric-car future looks promising.
Subaru provided The Drive with travel and accommodations, along with the use of a vehicle for the purpose of writing this review.
| 2026 Subaru Uncharted Specs | |
|---|---|
| Base Price | $36,445 |
| Powertrain | single- or dual-motor EV | rear- or all-wheel drive |
| Horsepower | 221-338 hp |
| Torque | TBA |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Curb Weight | 4,145-4,480 pounds |
| Max Towing | 2,000-3,500 pounds |
| Cargo Volume | 25.4 cubic feet |
| Ground Clearance | 8.2 inches |
| 0-60 mph | 4.7 seconds |
| EPA-rated range | 273-308 miles |
| Score | 6/10 |
Quick Snapshot
It’s not as quirky as some nostalgic Subaru fans might prefer, but the Uncharted incorporates ample poise and efficiency.
**2026 Subaru Uncharted First Drive Review: Affordable Electric Vehicle Alternative Without All-Wheel Drive**
The automotive landscape is swiftly changing, and Subaru is entering the electric vehicle (EV) market with its 2026 model, the Subaru Uncharted. This new introduction seeks to offer an affordable and practical electric vehicle choice for consumers, albeit without the brand’s hallmark all-wheel drive (AWD) feature that has consistently been part of its lineup.
**Design and Interior**
The 2026 Subaru Uncharted presents a contemporary and polished design, emphasizing aerodynamics to boost efficiency. The exterior showcases sharp contours and a distinctive front end that aligns with Subaru’s rugged image. Inside, the Uncharted is roomy and functional, featuring a minimalist dashboard fitted with a sizable touchscreen interface that manages most of the vehicle’s functions. Quality materials and well-considered storage options render the interior both comfortable and practical for daily use.
**Performance and Range**
Under the hood, the Uncharted is driven by a single electric motor that provides a commendable amount of horsepower, ensuring sufficient acceleration for urban driving and highway merges. The lack of all-wheel drive may deter some traditional Subaru fans, but the Uncharted is designed predominantly for city and suburban settings, where AWD is less essential.
This vehicle offers an estimated range of approximately 250 miles on a full charge, placing it competitively within its category. Charging solutions include standard home charging along with fast-charging capabilities that facilitate quick top-ups during more extended journeys.
**Technology and Safety Features**
Subaru has outfitted the Uncharted with a range of advanced technological features intended to enhance the driving experience. The infotainment system accommodates both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless connectivity for users. Furthermore, the vehicle is equipped with a collection of driver-assistance technologies, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking, all contributing to a safer driving experience.
**Affordability and Market Position**
One of the most notable features of the 2026 Subaru Uncharted is its pricing strategy. Positioned as an economical electric vehicle, it aims to attract budget-conscious consumers looking to transition to electric mobility without straining their finances. This pricing strategy is particularly appealing in a market where many EVs come with premium pricing.
**Conclusion**
The 2026 Subaru Uncharted marks a substantial advancement for Subaru as it embraces the electric vehicle sector. While the absence of all-wheel drive may be a disadvantage for some, the Uncharted offers an affordable, practical, and thoroughly equipped option for those in pursuit of an electric vehicle. With its contemporary design, competitive range, and sophisticated technological features, the Uncharted is set to leave its mark in the expanding EV marketplace. As consumers increasingly prioritize sustainability and affordability, the Uncharted could emerge as a favored choice for those seeking to transition to electric driving.