2026 Subaru Trailseeker EV to Debut at NY International Auto Show

Subaru is getting ready to expand its electric lineup — finally. On Friday, the automaker confirmed that its next EV will be called the 2026 Subaru Trailseeker, set to debut next week at the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS). Aside from a single teaser image showing the vehicle’s rear, details remain scarce. But the name and timing alone carry significance: Subaru is signaling it’s ready to step up its EV game.

And it’s about time.

Why the Trailseeker Matters

Subaru has been slow to enter the electric vehicle race. Currently, the Solterra — a rebadged version of the Toyota bZ4X — is its only EV offering. While the Solterra has seen modest improvements, its relatively underwhelming range and charging performance have made it a tough sell in an increasingly competitive market.

The Trailseeker could mark a turning point. It’s part of Subaru’s previously announced plan to co-develop three new EVs with Toyota before transitioning to four in-house electric models by 2028. While it’s unclear if the Trailseeker will be a Subaru spin on Toyota’s new C-HR+ or something entirely new, it’s clearly designed to help the brand stay relevant in the evolving EV landscape.

A New EV for Subaru’s Core Audience?

Subaru’s customer base has always had a strong outdoorsy streak — the same crowd now being courted by newer EV brands like Rivian, whose upcoming $45,000 R2 SUV lands in late 2026. If the Trailseeker can combine Subaru’s rugged, adventure-ready image with real EV credibility, it could serve as a much-needed bridge to the future.

First Look at the Trailseeker: NYIAS 2025

The public will get its first look at the Trailseeker during the 2025 New York International Auto Show, held at the Jacob Javits Convention Center in Manhattan from April 18 to April 27, 2025. The official opening ceremony kicks off on Saturday, April 19 at 8:30 a.m., with the show floor opening to the public at 10 a.m.

And it’s not just Subaru making EV headlines at NYIAS this year. The show is supercharging its EV presence in 2025, with a significantly expanded Multi-Brand EV Test Track. Attendees will be able to ride in the latest EVs and plug-in hybrids from industry giants like Cadillac, Chevrolet, Dodge, Ford, Jeep, Kia, Nissan, Toyota, and Volkswagen — with one-third more vehicles available compared to last year’s event.

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