Talking Cars 512: Driving the 2026 Subaru Uncharted

Main theme: In this podcast episode, we give our first impressions of the 2026 Subaru Uncharted. This all-new mode slots below the Subaru Solterra, and it’s an electric counterpart to the Subaru Crosstrek subcompact SUV. It uses a lot of the same mechanical bits as the Solterra, and that includes the same 338 hp from its dual electric motors. Our panelists go over the car from bumper to bumper, assessing the Uncharted’s smooth powertrain, comfortable ride, confusing ergonomics, and some of its missing EV-specific features. 

Similar to the Solterra and the Toyota bZ4X (now called “bZ”), the Uncharted is another joint venture between the two Japanese automakers. In fact, the Uncharted has a nearly identical specifications sheet to its twin, the Toyota C-HR (which used to be a gas-powered model but is now an EV). And Subaru, a brand synonymous with all-wheel drive, offers a front-wheel-drive version of the Uncharted, while the C-HR does not. 

Of course, driving range is always one of the biggest talking points for an EV, and our experts discuss whether the EPA-estimated 287-mile range of our tested car—a 2026 Subaru Uncharted Sport AWD—is long enough, given competitors and the car’s $42,083 price. 

Audience question: Can you help me find a fun car to get me to and from college every day that has sharp handling and premium creature comforts for under $35,000? I can’t go another year stuck in a sensible brick.