The Subaru E-Outback is the Japanese brand’s second EV following the Solterra, and with more space and power, targets more serious outdoorsy customers. It is coming to European dealers soon, and just ahead of the launch, we had a chance to spend some time with the car. Here are our first impressions of the new Subaru EV:
Design
Subaru unveiled the E-Outback on the same day it introduced the seventh-generation Outback, which adopts a taller, more conventional SUV profile.
In contrast, the E-Outback retains the lower, elongated proportions and estate-like stance of the old Outback and closely mirrors it in overall dimensions. This effectively positions the E-Outback as an alternative for buyers who preferred the previous Outback’s design, while the latest Outback caters to those seeking a more upright, SUV-style body.
The E-Outback features a boxy front with an upright, covered nose section, a prominent skid plate, and thick body cladding that extends well into its flanks to become a protective surface for the front wheel arches. The slender headlamps feature three-element daytime running light signatures positioned at the top and bottom.
The side profile looks sportier and better-proportioned than the sixth-gen Outback due to the shorter and fast-sloping hood and the shorter front overhang.
In contrast, the raised roof rails, chunky rocker panels and lower-body cladding, the squarer rear quarter glass panel, and the strong shoulders, lend the EV a rugged styling. At the rear, the E-Outback features connected tail lamps and an illuminated brand logo in a glass-look design.
Interior
The front section of the centre console houses the gear selector, dual wireless smartphone charging pads, the electronic parking brake, and controls for the parking camera, drive mode, and hazard warning.
The squircle-shaped steering wheel has a compact footprint, but its thick rim and dense array of physical controls give it a visually heavy appearance. The compact instrument cluster integrates a 7-inch driver information display. The 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Subaru has yet to reveal the equipment list for European markets, but in the U.S., it equips the E-Outback (called Trailseeker) with comfort features like a dual-zone automatic climate control system, a heated steering wheel, and heated and ventilated front seats. The U.S.-spec car also offers a radiant leg heater for the driver and front passenger.
Experience in the Subaru E-Outback
Ingress in the E-Outback is straightforward, but taller drivers need to manoeuvre their legs around the steering wheel during entry and exit. The steering wheel, despite the squircle design, partially blocks the digital instrument cluster, which sits far forward on the dashboard, preventing complete display visibility.
The front seats feel comfortable, with good back support, extended shoulder support, and supportive side bolstering. Under-thigh support is acceptable, and headroom is just adequate for a six-footer. Height-adjustable headrests provide workable comfort. The centre armrest is well padded.
Rear entry also uses conventional door handles for easy access, and second-row space is generous. The battery-pack floor creates a slight knee-up seating posture, but foot space remains good, with UK size 11 shoes sliding under the front seats.
Knee room is ample for a six-footer, and the seatbacks offer a two-step recline that helps occupants fine-tune comfort. A lower rear floor height in the future generation would further improve thigh angle and seating posture.
Rear amenities include a fold-down centre armrest with cupholders and a phone tray, adjustable headrests, rear air vents, and two USB ports. Three-across seating is possible but would be comfortable only for short trips due to the raised floor and overall cabin width typical of this segment.
Specifications
Subaru has yet to disclose the dimensions of the E-Outback. Based on the U.S.-spec version (Trailseeker), we expect it to be 4,846 mm long, 1,859 mm wide, and 1,674 mm tall, with a 2,850 mm wheelbase.
Subaru plans to launch the E-Outback in Europe exclusively in a 280 kW (375 bhp) dual-motor AWD variant. A 74.7 kWh battery pack powers these motors, and can be charged at up to 150 kW. This setup allows the EV to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 4.4 seconds, and Subaru is targeting a WLTP range of over 279 miles.
Release date
In the UK, Subaru plans to launch the E-Outback in summer 2026 and could price it at just under GBP 55,000.
