Subaru's New 2026 Uncharted EV: A Closer Look at the Electric Crossover
Subaru is making a significant leap into the electric vehicle sector, aiming to expand its EV offerings from one to three models by 2026. Among these new additions is the Uncharted, an electric crossover positioned as the battery-powered counterpart to the well-regarded Crosstrek. This strategic move comes at a time when the EV market is experiencing a period of stabilization, prompting manufacturers to innovate and differentiate their products. The Uncharted's design cues echo the futuristic aesthetics of the Crosstrek, yet its underlying architecture is a product of a collaborative effort with Toyota, sharing key components such as its platform, electric powertrains, and battery technology. Despite these shared foundations, Subaru emphasizes its unique input in refining the vehicle's steering and suspension, aiming to impart a distinct driving experience that aligns with the brand's established character.
Our evaluation of the Uncharted GT model revealed impressive acceleration, thanks to its dual electric motors producing a combined 338 horsepower. Even in its Eco setting, the vehicle delivers a responsive surge of power, making for an engaging driving experience. However, the regenerative braking system, even at its highest intensity, does not fully support true one-pedal driving due to its less aggressive deceleration. On paved surfaces, the Uncharted demonstrates stable and competent handling, though the steering could benefit from more feedback. The ride quality is notably refined, even with the GT's 20-inch wheels, suggesting a tuning philosophy aimed at comfort for everyday driving rather than aggressive maneuvers. For those venturing off the beaten path, the Uncharted offers considerable capability. All trim levels feature 8.2 inches of ground clearance and an independent four-wheel suspension. The X-Mode terrain-response system, available on Sport and GT trims, proved its mettle on challenging off-road terrain, surpassing the likely demands of most owners.
Inside, the Uncharted’s cabin surprises with its spaciousness, especially considering its compact exterior dimensions. It offers more cargo capacity than the Crosstrek and an enhanced sense of openness for rear passengers. The front seats are well-padded, providing a comfortable and accommodating driving posture. While the extra-wide center console includes convenient smartphone charging pads, it lacks adequate storage compartments, with the USB-C ports situated in a less accessible area under the console. Despite the absence of a traditional glovebox, door pockets and a shallow armrest cubby offer practical solutions for stowing smaller items. The infotainment system is dominated by a user-friendly 14.0-inch touchscreen, powered by Toyota's intuitive and responsive interface. A secondary 7.0-inch digital display is positioned further back towards the windshield for the driver. In terms of technology, all Uncharted models come equipped with Subaru's EyeSight suite of driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and pedestrian detection, alongside blind-spot monitoring and automated emergency braking. An optional 360-degree camera system and an off-road specific camera view are also available, though the latter's speed limitation to 6 mph proved somewhat restrictive during testing.
A notable aspect of the Uncharted's design is the compromise between range and all-wheel drive capability. All models share a 67-kWh battery pack. The front-wheel-drive Premium variant offers the longest range at 308 miles, while the all-wheel-drive Sport and GT models provide slightly less at 287 and 273 miles, respectively. The single-motor front-wheel-drive Premium, with 224 horsepower, offers a more accessible entry point at $36,445, positioning it favorably against competitors like the Tesla Model Y. This variant is expected to appeal primarily to buyers in regions with less demand for all-wheel-drive, such as California. Conversely, all-wheel-drive Sport and GT trims, starting at $41,245 and $45,245, will be more widely available, reinforcing the Subaru identity of rugged capability. Ultimately, the Uncharted represents a thoughtful evolution for Subaru, embracing electric propulsion while attempting to retain the brand's core values. This new electric crossover is not merely a vehicle but a statement of innovation, challenging the automotive industry to continually push boundaries in technology, design, and environmental responsibility, thereby inspiring a future where advanced engineering and sustainable practices coexist harmoniously.