For decades, the Subaru name has been synonymous with a specific kind of Kiwi adventure, winding coastal roads, gravel tracks, and the reliable capability to reach the ski field car park. Now, Subaru New Zealand has officially signaled that this legacy of exploration is not just surviving the transition to electric, but evolving.
At a recent launch event held at the scenic Bracu, the company unveiled the all-new TrailSeeker, a vehicle they are positioning as the brand’s first true “sports electric vehicle.”
A New Chapter for an Adventurous Brand
Paul Mallard, the new General Manager at Subaru New Zealand, emphasised that the TrailSeeker is more than just a new model; it is a credible, authentic start to Subaru’s EV journey. Having spent time driving the vehicle in Australia and around Auckland, Mallard noted that the TrailSeeker retains the “real Subaru feel” that long-time enthusiasts expect, even while embracing the future of mobility.
The vehicle is built on the e-Subaru Global Platform and features the brand’s signature symmetrical all-wheel drive system. It is designed to be as composed on a motorway as it is tackling loose gravel, ensuring that the transition to electric power doesn’t mean leaving the adventure behind.
Performance Meets Practicality
The TrailSeeker is Subaru’s most powerful and fastest battery-electric vehicle to date. It boasts a 74.7 kWh battery, delivering up to 533 kilometres of WLTP range. With 280kW of combined power, the vehicle can sprint from 0-100 km/h in approximately 4.5 seconds.
However, the engineers focused on more than just raw speed. The vehicle utilises independent inverters and high-drive software to ensure power delivery matches the driver’s pedal input smoothly, avoiding the “snappy” acceleration often found in electric cars.
This focus on predictable handling is further supported by: Dual-mode X-Mode with Grip Control: An off-road cruise control that automates throttle and braking to help navigate slippery surfaces. Advanced Traction: Near-instant torque distribution and dual-motor position mapping. Off-Road Geometry: 211 mm of ground clearance and a 500 mm wading depth.
Designed for the Real World
Subaru has integrated several thoughtful, practical features that cater to those who actually use their vehicles for outdoor pursuits. The TrailSeeker includes a 360-degree camera system with a “transparent bonnet” view, allowing drivers to spot rocks or ruts hidden from view.
Visibility is prioritised even in harsh conditions, with headlamps designed to minimize snow and mud buildup, complete with integrated washers. The rear is similarly equipped with a dedicated camera washer and wiper to maintain a clear view in wet or dusty environments.
For those hauling gear, the vehicle features heavy-duty roof rails with integrated tie-down points, supporting a 370 kg static load capacity, perfect for rooftop tents, kayaks, or mountain bikes. The Touring model adds further utility with Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, turning the car into a mobile power station capable of running appliances like coffee machines or lights while off the grid.
So how did it handle NZ Roads?
Our launch drive took us from Bracu at the Bombays to Port Waikato and looped us back, on a route that included some old school rally stages, basically catnip for Subaru’s, and boy did it respond. We were given the keys to the AWD model and although it’s ‘base’ it’s far from basic. Seats are comfortable, mechanicals are all there, and them some, it just lacked the sunroof and stereo. Ok it’s more than that, but you get the point.
On the winding tarmac, the SEV did more than keep pace with the lead car (an Outback Wilderness), it blitzed it. The low centre of gravity helped the EV hug the road and with a little adjusting of the regen braking meant my right foot barely left the throttle. The steering was both rapid and precise and the suspension, 18-inch feet and larger profile rubber combo took most, if not all, the rough rural roading in its stride.
Arguably, better still was the Trailseeker’s performance on the unsealed stuff. My natural inclination was to ease off a bit, respecting the laws of physics and appreciating that the heavier vehicle would probably struggle to keep purchase in the corners, but the highly-responsive synchronous AWD compensated with aplomb. Allowing me to enjoy the spirited ride and again, harass the lead car.
In fairness, the Trailseeker is more of an adventurer than a WRX, but its claim of being the brand’s most powerful unit thus far, didn’t go unnoticed.
The Trailseeker comes with a full safety suite, but I must confess that none of its ADAS beeps and pings voiced their disgust at having me pilot this SEV ship, which meant that either my skills have improved or the systems helps rather than nags, either way I’m a happy chappy.
Alas, (or probably thankfully, due to the speeds we were going) the Trailseeker’s off-road credentials (X-Mode/Grip Control etc) weren’t used, but maybe we will do this on a follow up drive.
Oh and for those watching the range clock, we traveled 72km on my stint and used 75km of range, not bad considering economy wasn’t part of my fist drive brief!
The Lineup and Ownership
New Zealand customers can choose between two variants: TrailSeeker All-Wheel Drive: Starting from $68,990 and TrailSeeker Touring: Starting from $72,490.
The Touring model offers a more premium experience, featuring black leather upholstery with blue accents, a panoramic glass roof, ventilated front seats, and a Harman Kardon premium audio system.
To build confidence in the EV transition, Subaru is backing the TrailSeeker with a comprehensive customer promise. This includes a standard three-year/100,000 km manufacturer warranty, a five-year/100,000 km driveline warranty, and an eight-year/160,000 km high-voltage battery warranty. Additionally, a three-year service plan is available for $599, which includes roadside assist and extends the vehicle warranty to six years.
As Subaru moves into this new era, the message is clear: the TrailSeeker is designed to challenge the segment while remaining true to the adventurous spirit that has defined the brand for generations.
