2027 All-Electric Subaru Trailseeker Named Car of the Year

November 11th, 2026 by

The 2027 Subaru Trailseeker is making headlines! Named Car of the Year in the 2027 TopGear.com U.S. Car Awards, Subaru’s newest all-electric SUV is turning heads with its impressive performance, legendary Subaru capability, advanced safety technology, and everyday practicality.

For drivers looking to make the switch to an electric vehicle with the versatility and confidence of an SUV, the 2027 Subaru Trailseeker offers an exciting combination of features. With standard Subaru Symmetrical AWD, up to 281 miles of estimated driving range, 375 horsepower, and 8.5 inches of ground clearance, this electric SUV is designed to handle everything from daily commutes to weekend adventures.

Even better, the 2027 Subaru Trailseeker starts at just $39,995 MSRP.

So, what makes the Trailseeker so special, why did TopGear.com choose it as Car of the Year, and is it the right electric SUV for your lifestyle? Let’s take a closer look.

Why Did the 2027 Subaru Trailseeker Win TopGear.com’s Car of the Year?

Winning Car of the Year is no small accomplishment, especially when competing against new and significantly updated vehicles from multiple automakers. TopGear.com’s editors selected the Subaru Trailseeker for its impressive combination of versatility, capability, and performance both on and off the road.

Rather than focusing on just one impressive specification, the Trailseeker delivers a well-rounded driving experience. It combines the efficiency of an all-electric powertrain with the rugged utility Subaru drivers have come to expect. Top Gear U.S. Correspondent Alex Kalogiannis specifically praised the Trailseeker’s ability to transition between challenging terrain and everyday driving.

The editors highlighted several standout qualities:

  • Off-road capability: 8.5 inches of ground clearance, standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, and X-MODE traction technology.

  • Impressive performance: 375 combined horsepower from two electric motors and an estimated 0-to-60 mph time of just 4.4 seconds.

  • Everyday practicality: SUV versatility, spacious seating for five, and flexible cargo space.

  • All-electric efficiency: Up to 281 miles of range and convenient DC fast-charging capability.

  • Advanced technology: Modern infotainment, smartphone integration, and a comprehensive collection of driver-assistance features.

What Do Automotive Judges Look for When Choosing Car of the Year?

While TopGear.com does not publish a detailed numerical scoring rubric for its U.S. Car of the Year award, its editorial coverage makes clear that the overall driving experience matters.

Automotive reviewers generally evaluate vehicles on several important qualities:

  1. Performance and drivability: How does the vehicle accelerate, handle, brake, and respond to everyday driving conditions?

  2. Practicality: Does it offer useful space, comfort, versatility, and features that make ownership easier?

  3. Innovation and technology: Does it bring meaningful improvements in powertrain technology, connectivity, or convenience?

  4. Safety: Does it provide useful technologies that help drivers stay aware and respond to potential hazards?

  5. Capability: Can it handle the situations drivers are likely to encounter, from highway travel to challenging weather and rough roads?

  6. Overall value: Does the vehicle deliver a compelling combination of features, performance, and usefulness for its price?

The Subaru Trailseeker stands out because it doesn’t sacrifice everyday usability to deliver electric performance. It offers a little bit of everything, making it an appealing choice for a wide variety of drivers.

What’s New for the 2027 Subaru Trailseeker?

The 2027 Subaru Trailseeker introduces an exciting new chapter for Subaru, bringing all-electric performance together with the brand’s adventure-ready SUV DNA. Unlike many electric SUVs designed primarily for city streets and paved highways, the Trailseeker was engineered to deliver the traction, ground clearance, and versatility Subaru owners appreciate.

Here are some of its biggest highlights.

1. All-Electric Performance With 375 Horsepower

Electric vehicles are known for their immediate acceleration, and the Trailseeker takes full advantage of that capability. Its standard dual-motor electric powertrain produces an impressive 375 combined horsepower. That power helps the Trailseeker accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.4 seconds.

What does that mean for the average driver?

  • Confident acceleration when merging onto highways.

  • Responsive power when passing slower traffic.

  • Smooth, quiet acceleration around town.

  • Plenty of power for everyday driving and weekend adventures.

You get the convenience and efficiency of an electric vehicle without giving up an engaging driving experience.

2. Standard Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive

One of the biggest reasons drivers choose Subaru is its reputation for all-weather capability.

The 2027 Trailseeker continues that tradition with standard Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. Unlike electric SUVs that offer all-wheel drive only on select configurations, every Trailseeker comes equipped with this capability. The system continuously evaluates acceleration, braking, and cornering to help distribute power to the wheels that have the most traction. For drivers who experience rain, snow, slippery roads, or changing road conditions, that added traction can make a meaningful difference.

Whether you’re commuting to work during winter weather or heading out for a weekend getaway, the Trailseeker is designed to help you feel more confident behind the wheel.

3. 8.5 Inches of Ground Clearance and Standard X-MODE

Here’s where the Trailseeker really separates itself from many other electric SUVs. With 8.5 inches of ground clearance, it offers the ability to navigate rougher roads, snowy conditions, muddy paths, and uneven terrain. It also comes standard with dual-function X-MODE with Grip Control. This system offers specialized settings for snow and dirt, deep snow, and mud. X-MODE helps optimize vehicle performance and traction based on the driving conditions.

For drivers who enjoy camping, hiking, fishing, or exploring outdoor destinations, this added capability makes the Trailseeker a particularly interesting alternative to traditional electric crossovers.

4. Up to 281 Miles of Electric Driving Range

Range is one of the first things many shoppers consider when researching an electric vehicle. The 2027 Subaru Trailseeker offers an estimated driving range of up to 281 miles on a full charge, depending on configuration.

That can make a big difference for everyday drivers.

Think about your typical week:

  • Driving to and from work.

  • Taking the kids to school and activities.

  • Running errands around town.

  • Visiting friends and family.

  • Heading out for a weekend road trip.

For many drivers, that range can accommodate several days of typical driving without needing to recharge.

5. Faster, More Convenient EV Charging

The Trailseeker also makes charging more convenient with a standard North American Charging Standard (NACS) charge port. This gives drivers access to more than 25,000 Tesla Superchargers nationwide, helping make longer trips and public charging more convenient.

When connected to an appropriately equipped DC fast charger, the Trailseeker supports charging speeds of up to 150 kW. Under ideal conditions, Subaru estimates that charging from 10% to 80% can take approximately 28 minutes.

The Trailseeker also features battery preconditioning designed to help optimize charging performance in different temperatures. For home charging, the included charging cable supports Level 1 charging through a standard 120-volt outlet and Level 2 charging with a compatible 240-volt outlet.

For drivers considering their first EV, these charging options offer flexibility for both everyday home charging and longer-distance travel.

2027 Subaru Trailseeker Safety Features: Confidence Comes Standard

Safety is an important consideration when choosing a family SUV, and Subaru has equipped the 2027 Trailseeker with an impressive collection of driver-assistance and awareness technologies. Every Trailseeker comes standard with Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist Technologies. These systems are designed to help monitor driving conditions, provide alerts, and assist the driver when certain situations arise.

Some of the key safety and driver-assistance features include:

Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist Technologies

  • Pre-Collision System: Can apply braking force to help avoid or reduce the severity of certain frontal collisions.

  • Dynamic Radar Cruise Control: Helps maintain a selected following distance from vehicles ahead.

  • Lane Tracing Assist: Provides steering assistance to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane under qualifying conditions.

  • Traffic Jam Assist: Provides hands-free steering assistance with driver supervision in qualifying low-speed traffic situations, up to 25 mph.

Additional Safety and Awareness Features

The 2027 Trailseeker also includes:

  • Blind-Spot Monitor.

  • Front Cross-Traffic Alert.

  • Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.

  • Lane Change Assist.

  • Parking Support Brake.

  • Driver Monitor distraction mitigation technology.

Available features on select trims include Advanced Park and a 360-degree Panoramic View Monitor.

These technologies can be especially helpful when navigating busy parking lots, changing lanes on the highway, or backing out of crowded driveways.

Interior Comfort and Technology: Designed Around Everyday Life

An SUV can’t just be capable. It should also be comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable for the people spending time inside it. The 2027 Subaru Trailseeker offers a thoughtfully equipped interior with modern technology and plenty of room for passengers and cargo.

A 14-Inch Touchscreen Multimedia System

At the center of the dashboard is a standard 14-inch Subaru Multimedia touchscreen.

The system includes:

  • Wireless Apple CarPlay.

  • Wireless Android Auto.

  • Navigation and vehicle settings.

  • Dual wireless smartphone chargers.

  • Voice-activated Intelligent Assistant.

Drivers can use the system to access their favorite music, podcasts, compatible smartphone apps, and other connected features. The available SubaruConnect services also offer conveniences such as Remote Start with Climate Control and available Digital Key functionality.

Room for Passengers and Cargo

The Trailseeker offers comfortable seating for up to five passengers and provides up to 31.3 cubic feet of rear cargo space, making it useful for groceries, luggage, sports equipment, and everyday essentials.

Additional interior highlights include:

  • A flat rear floor for flexible passenger and cargo arrangements.

  • Standard heated front seats.

  • Available heated rear outboard seats.

  • Available heated steering wheel.

  • Available radiant leg warmers.

  • Available panoramic glass roof.

  • Available hands-free power rear gate.

Whether you’re loading up for a family weekend or simply making a grocery run, the Trailseeker is designed to accommodate real-life needs.

Adventure-Ready Roof Rails

The Trailseeker also comes standard with raised roof rails designed to accommodate compatible accessories for hauling bikes, kayaks, cargo carriers, and other adventure equipment. The rails support up to 700 pounds of static load, making them suitable for compatible rooftop tent setups. The vehicle also offers a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.

That means the Trailseeker isn’t just designed to get you to your destination. It’s designed to help bring some of your favorite outdoor activities along for the ride.

2027 Subaru Trailseeker Trim Levels: Which One Is Right for You?

The 2027 Subaru Trailseeker is available in four trim levels, giving shoppers several options depending on their priorities and budget.

Trailseeker Premium

Starting MSRP: $39,995

The Premium is an excellent starting point for drivers who want an all-electric SUV with impressive standard equipment.

Highlights include:

  • Standard dual-motor electric AWD.

  • 375 horsepower.

  • Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist Technologies.

  • 14-inch touchscreen multimedia system.

  • Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

  • Dual wireless smartphone chargers.

  • Raised roof rails.

Trailseeker Limited

Starting MSRP: $43,995

The Limited adds additional comfort, technology, and convenience features.

Highlights include:

  • Harman Kardon premium audio system.

  • 20-inch alloy wheels.

  • Heated steering wheel.

  • Heated rear outboard seats.

  • Advanced Park.

  • 360-degree Panoramic View Monitor.

Trailseeker Touring

Starting MSRP: $46,555

The Touring adds more premium comfort and interior amenities.

Highlights include:

  • Panoramic glass roof with power sunshade.

  • Heated and ventilated front seats.

  • Radiant leg heaters for the driver and front passenger.

  • Premium interior amenities.

Trailseeker Touring Leather

Starting MSRP: $46,855

For shoppers who prefer a more traditional premium interior, the Touring Leather offers additional refinement.

Highlights include:

  • Leather-trimmed upholstery.

  • Panoramic glass roof with power sunshade.

  • Heated and ventilated front seats.

  • Premium comfort and convenience features.

Why the 2027 Subaru Trailseeker Makes Sense for the Average Driver

You don’t have to be an off-road enthusiast or an electric vehicle expert to appreciate what the Trailseeker brings to the table. In fact, some of its biggest advantages are features that make everyday driving easier.

For commuters: The all-electric powertrain means no traditional gasoline stops, smooth acceleration, and a quiet driving experience.

For families: Seating for five, flexible cargo space, and standard driver-assistance technology make it a practical everyday SUV.

For winter drivers: Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, X-MODE, and 8.5 inches of ground clearance provide added capability when road conditions become challenging.

For weekend adventurers: Raised roof rails, available accessories, substantial ground clearance, and towing capability make it easier to bring along the gear you need.

For technology lovers: The large touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, connected services, and advanced charging compatibility make the Trailseeker feel right at home in the modern world.

For drivers considering an EV for the first time: Up to 281 miles of range, multiple charging options, and access to a large fast-charging network help make the transition to electric driving more approachable.

The biggest takeaway? The Trailseeker doesn’t ask you to choose between an efficient electric vehicle and a capable, versatile SUV, instead it brings both together.

Visit Diehl Subaru of Massillon to Explore the 2027 Subaru Trailseeker

The 2027 Subaru Trailseeker is an exciting addition to the Subaru lineup, and its Car of the Year recognition from TopGear.com is a great reason to take a closer look. With 375 horsepower, standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, up to 281 miles of driving range, advanced safety technology, and impressive everyday versatility, it’s easy to understand why this all-electric SUV is getting so much attention.

Whether you’re ready to make the switch to electric driving or simply want to explore the latest Subaru technology, our team at Diehl Subaru is here to help. Stop by to learn more about the 2027 Subaru Trailseeker, compare available trim levels, explore charging options, and discover which configuration fits your lifestyle.

Ready to experience Subaru’s award-winning electric SUV? Contact us today to schedule your 2027 Subaru Trailseeker test drive!

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