New Automobile Preview: 2026 Subaru Uncharted Breaks the Mildew with Entrance-Wheel Drive and Toyota DNA : Automotive Addicts

Automotive

Subaru simply flipped the script on its all-wheel-drive legacy with the debut of the 2026 Uncharted, its latest — and smallest — electrical car. And right here’s the twist: for the primary time in many years, Subaru is providing a front-wheel-drive mannequin within the U.S. market. It’s a daring transfer from a model that’s constructed its fame on symmetrical AWD and off-road-ready character, however the Uncharted is right here to point out that electrified versatility can are available in new kinds.

The Uncharted is Subaru’s third EV, following the Solterra and not too long ago revealed Trailseeker. However not like its bigger siblings, the Uncharted isn’t aiming to be a rugged SUV first. As an alternative, it’s tapping into city practicality and electrical effectivity whereas using on a well-recognized basis. That basis, because it seems, is the brand new Toyota C-HR — however Subaru has accomplished extra than simply badge engineering right here. With distinctive styling, chassis tuning, and efficiency distinctions, the Uncharted nonetheless has a transparent Subaru id.

Main the cost — actually — is the Uncharted Premium FWD, a uncommon front-wheel-drive entry from Subaru. It includes a single electrical motor delivering 221 horsepower, sufficient for on a regular basis zippiness with a projected vary of over 300 miles from its 74.4-kWh battery pack. Subaru says this model shall be in-built restricted numbers, presumably to check the waters for FWD in an EV-hungry market the place AWD isn’t all the time a should.

For these craving efficiency and all-weather grip, the Uncharted Sport and GT trims include dual-motor all-wheel drive and a wholesome 338 horsepower. Subaru claims a 0-60 time of simply 5.0 seconds — a full second faster than the WRX, making this compact EV a sleeper on the road. These AWD variants supply an estimated vary of 290 miles and have the model’s X-Mode drive system, tailor-made for low-traction surfaces and delicate off-roading.

Charging is dealt with by way of an ordinary Tesla-style NACS port, with fast-charging functionality as much as 150 kW. That interprets to a 10-80% top-up in round half-hour. It’s not class-leading, nevertheless it’s on par with lots of right this moment’s mainstream EVs.

Inside, the cabin mirrors a lot of the brand new Toyota C-HR’s structure. A compact 7-inch digital gauge cluster pairs with an enormous 14-inch central infotainment display that features wi-fi Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. All trims come nicely geared up with normal options like heated entrance seats, a heated windshield, twin wi-fi cellphone chargers, an influence tailgate, and Subaru’s full suite of energetic security tech.

Step as much as the Sport mannequin and also you’ll discover upgrades like a heated steering wheel and surround-view cameras. The range-topping GT provides ventilated entrance seats, heated rear seats, 20-inch wheels, and a premium Harman Kardon sound system for a extra upscale expertise.

Although smaller than the Solterra by practically seven inches, the Uncharted surprises with its utility. At 177.6 inches in size, it’s solely a tad longer than the Crosstrek, but it boasts 25 cubic toes of cargo house behind the second row — noticeably greater than the Crosstrek’s 20 cubic toes. So regardless of its city footprint, this EV retains some sensible Subaru DNA intact.

Subaru hasn’t launched official pricing but, however with a focused early 2026 on-sale date, extra particulars ought to come quickly. Anticipate the entry-level Premium FWD to start out within the mid-$30,000 vary earlier than incentives, although market variables like tariffs might push that increased.

The Uncharted represents a turning level for Subaru — embracing electrical mobility with flexibility, efficiency, and even a touch of unorthodox engineering. For a model that’s lengthy leaned on AWD as a signature trait, launching a FWD EV is unquestionably sudden. However in right this moment’s evolving EV panorama, it would simply be the type of uncharted territory price exploring.

Mike Floyd is a finance government by commerce and a automobile fanatic at coronary heart. As a CFO with a eager eye for element and technique, Mike brings his analytical mindset to the automotive world, uncovering recent insights and distinctive views that transcend the floor. His ardour for automobiles—particularly his favourite, the Porsche 911, fuels his contributions to Automotive Addicts, the place he blends a love for efficiency and design together with his skilled precision. Whether or not he’s breaking down trade developments or spotlighting rising improvements, Mike helps hold the location each sharp and forward-thinking.