The 2026 Uncharted arrives with 308 miles in FWD, AWD available, and the Toyota partnership. First drive reveals performance, off-road capability, and technology.

Subaru Uncharted: 308 miles of range, AWD available, and the Toyota partnership

Subaru's 2026 electric hatchback, the Uncharted, arrives at dealerships in a few weeks. It is the smallest of the brand's three EVs this year, alongside the Solterra, which has been on the market since 2022, and the newly arrived Trailseeker. Although it offers AWD, there is a base Premium version with only front-wheel drive (FWD).

The FWD model achieves 308 miles of range according to the EPA; AWD reduces this number: the Uncharted Sport, with standard AWD, reaches 287 miles, and the top-tier GT gets 273 miles. Prices start at $36,445 for the Premium FWD and go up to $45,245 for the GT, both including the $1,450 destination fee. The base FWD surpasses the Leaf FWD in range.

Heritage and comparison with the Crosstrek

Among Subaru's EVs, each model is analogous to an existing combustion model: the Solterra to the Forester, the Trailseeker to the Outback, and the Uncharted to the Crosstrek. Among EVs, the closest competitor is the Volvo EX30 Cross Country; others in the range include Kia Niro EV, Hyundai Kona Electric, and Nissan Leaf, although with less off-road capability.

Design and production overview

The Uncharted, unveiled last July, is essentially a Subaru with Toyota touches, assembled at the Motomachi factory in Japan. The power and battery pack (battery, motors, and power electronics) come from Toyota; Subaru is responsible for the all-wheel drive, suspension, handling, and safety.

Inside, the design and language are reminiscent of Toyota models, with the dashboard, cluster, and center screen reflecting that DNA. The infotainment system includes a 14-inch screen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay; there are dual wireless chargers in the front console; USB-C ports for the rear seats; and wheels ranging from 18 to 20 inches.

Ground clearance is 8.2 inches, just 0.5 inches less than the Crosstrek, reinforcing the mission of offering off-road capability without compromising urban driving dynamics.

Performance, technology, and off-road

• With a 74.7 kWh battery, the Uncharted is the lightest Subaru EV in the lineup.
• GT with AWD: 338 hp (250 kW) and 0–60 mph in 4.7 seconds.
• Premium FWD: 221 hp (160 kW).
• All models come standard with the NACS charging port.

In off-road testing, Subaru conducted trials in Orange County, California, with a course that included steep climbs, mud, and uneven terrain. The Multi-Terrain Monitor uses the front camera to assist with maneuvers, but this view disappears above 6 mph due to a Toyota safety measure, requiring the driver to activate it before the next climb.

Connection with the public and availability

Subaru fans are described by the brand as "Youthful Explorers" with an average age of 32, for whom EVs represent responsible adventure and a sustainable lifestyle. The partnership with Toyota made the offering of several EVs possible, with Toyota handling the powertrain architecture and Subaru being responsible for AWD, handling, roadholding, and safety. The Uncharted emerges as the Crosstrek's alternative within this cooperation between the brands.

The Uncharted hits the market this quarter, marking Subaru's entry into the EV universe with an adventure focus. Early reviews highlighted the balance between performance, off-road capabilities, and the design that blends Subaru and Toyota elements.

Price and availability: The Premium FWD starts at $36,445, with the destination fee included; the top-tier GT is $45,245. It is worth noting that the base FWD has a superior range to the Leaf FWD.

For this first contact with the vehicle, Subaru provided travel, lodging, and meals.

Conclusion

The Uncharted has the potential to consolidate Subaru's presence in the EV segment, offering available AWD, competitive performance, and a platform developed in partnership with Toyota. The market will determine if this hybrid Subaru-Toyota identity will win over young and adventurous buyers.

We want to know your opinion: which version would you choose, the Premium FWD with 308 miles or the GT with AWD and 273–287 miles? Leave your comment below.