The Australian automotive landscape is changing rapidly. More drivers want electric vehicles, and car manufacturers are responding with exciting new options.
Subaru Australia has made a significant commitment recently. The Japanese brand promises to bring more electric vehicles to local showrooms, though specific details remain scarce.
Current Electric Vehicle Landscape for Subaru
Solterra: The Starting Point
Subaru’s first serious attempt at an electric vehicle came with the Solterra SUV. This mid-size electric SUV entered Australian showrooms in 2024, marking the brand’s entry into the EV market.
The Solterra was developed through a partnership with Toyota. Both companies worked together to create this electric SUV, which shares many components with the Toyota bZ4X.
However, the reception has been mixed. Sales figures tell an interesting story about consumer preferences and market challenges.
Sales Performance Reality Check
The numbers paint a clear picture of the current situation. Subaru sold only 68 Solterra units through April 2025, while Toyota managed 299 bZ4X sales in the same period.
These figures highlight the challenges facing new electric vehicles in Australia. Many factors contribute to slower adoption rates, including price sensitivity and charging infrastructure concerns.
What’s Coming Next: Subaru’s Electric Expansion Plans
Global Strategy: Eight EVs by 2028
Subaru Corporation has announced ambitious global plans. The company aims to have eight electric vehicles in its lineup by 2028, representing a significant expansion of their EV portfolio.
Scott Lawrence, Subaru Australia’s general manager, confirmed the company’s commitment to electric vehicles. He emphasized that local operations are working closely with headquarters to determine which models will suit Australian consumers.
The Trailseeker: Next Generation Electric SUV
The Subaru Trailseeker represents the next step in the brand’s electric journey. This new model was revealed at the New York Motor Show in April 2025, generating considerable interest among automotive enthusiasts.
The Trailseeker offers practical improvements over the current Solterra. It’s 152mm longer and 25mm taller, providing more cargo space for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Despite its rugged appearance, the Trailseeker maintains the same ground clearance as the standard Solterra. This design choice balances aesthetic appeal with practical engineering considerations.
Enhanced Solterra: Improvements on the Horizon
Power and Battery Upgrades
The updated Solterra brings meaningful improvements to the electric SUV lineup. The new version features a larger 74.7kWh battery pack, increasing range and addressing one of the main consumer concerns.
Power output increases significantly from 160kW to 174kW in the standard model. This 14kW boost should provide better acceleration and overall performance for Australian driving conditions.
XT Flagship Model
Subaru plans to introduce an XT flagship version of the Solterra. This high-performance variant will produce 252kW, positioning it as a serious competitor in the premium electric SUV segment.
The XT model represents Subaru’s commitment to performance in the electric vehicle space. It maintains the brand’s tradition of offering sportier variants across their model lineup.
Partnership Strategy: Working with Toyota
Collaborative Approach
Subaru’s partnership with Toyota continues to be a cornerstone of their electric vehicle strategy. This collaboration allows both companies to share development costs and leverage each other’s strengths.
The partnership makes financial sense for both brands. Electric vehicle development requires substantial investment, and sharing these costs helps bring more affordable options to market.
Future Collaborative Models
Plans include a seven-seat large family SUV that will compete with vehicles like the Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 9. This larger SUV addresses the growing demand for family-friendly electric vehicles.
Toyota has also confirmed development of a battery-powered ute and compact car. Whether these models will be shared with Subaru remains to be determined.
Market Challenges and Opportunities
Consumer Adoption Hurdles
Several factors influence electric vehicle adoption in Australia. Price remains a significant consideration for many consumers, especially when compared to traditional petrol vehicles.
Charging infrastructure continues to develop across the country. While major cities have good coverage, regional areas still face challenges with charging availability.
Competitive Landscape
The Australian EV market is becoming increasingly competitive. Established brands and new entrants are launching electric models regularly, creating more options for consumers.
Subaru faces strong competition from brands like Tesla, Hyundai, and Kia. Each offers different approaches to electric mobility, from luxury performance to practical family transportation.
Timeline Expectations for Australian Market
Short-term Releases
Industry experts expect the updated Solterra to arrive in Australian showrooms by late 2025. This timeline aligns with global release schedules and local market preparation.
The Trailseeker SUV may follow shortly after, potentially arriving in early 2026. This timing would help Subaru build momentum in the electric vehicle segment.
Long-term Strategy
Subaru’s eight-EV goal by 2028 suggests regular model releases over the next few years. However, not all global models may come to Australia due to local market considerations.
Market demand and regulatory changes will likely influence which models receive priority for the Australian market. Government incentives and emission standards may accelerate certain model introductions.
What This Means for Australian Consumers
More Choice Coming
Australian buyers can expect more electric vehicle options from Subaru in the coming years. This expanded lineup should address different consumer needs and price points.
Variety in electric vehicles benefits consumers by providing options that suit different lifestyles. From compact city cars to large family SUVs, the expanding range offers something for everyone.
Technology Improvements
Each new model generation typically brings improvements in battery technology, charging speed, and overall efficiency. Consumers who wait may benefit from these technological advances.
Software updates and connectivity features continue to evolve rapidly. Newer electric vehicles often include better integration with smartphones and home energy systems.
Industry Impact and Broader Implications
Market Maturation
Subaru’s commitment to electric vehicles signals growing confidence in the Australian EV market. This confidence suggests that consumer acceptance is reaching a tipping point.
More manufacturers entering the electric vehicle space creates positive competition. This competition drives innovation and helps bring prices down over time.
Infrastructure Development
Growing EV adoption encourages continued investment in charging infrastructure. This creates a positive cycle where better infrastructure supports more EV sales.
Government policies supporting electric vehicle adoption provide additional momentum. These policies include purchase incentives and infrastructure development funding.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will new Subaru EVs arrive in Australia? The updated Solterra is expected by late 2025, with the Trailseeker potentially following in early 2026.
How many electric vehicles will Subaru offer? Subaru plans to have eight electric vehicles globally by 2028, though not all may come to Australia.
Will Subaru EVs be more affordable? Pricing hasn’t been announced, but increased competition typically helps drive prices down over time.
What’s the difference between Solterra and Trailseeker? The Trailseeker is longer and taller than the Solterra, offering more cargo space and a more rugged appearance.
How does Subaru’s EV partnership with Toyota work? The two companies share development costs and technology, creating similar vehicles with brand-specific features.
Will there be a Subaru electric ute? Toyota is developing an electric ute, but whether Subaru will share this model hasn’t been confirmed.
How are current Subaru EV sales performing? Solterra sales have been slow, with only 68 units sold through April 2025 compared to Toyota’s 299 bZ4X sales.
What improvements come with the updated Solterra? The new version features a larger battery, more power, and a high-performance XT variant producing 252kW.
Will Subaru offer smaller electric vehicles? While Toyota is developing a compact electric car, Subaru’s participation in this segment hasn’t been confirmed.
How does the Australian EV market look for Subaru? The market is becoming more competitive, with consumer acceptance growing steadily despite current slow sales figures.