2026 Subaru Uncharted Review - Should This Have Been An Electric WRX
video description
Date: 2026-03-07
Related videos
Comments and reviews: 20
mike_philpot
Good review. Enjoyed it.
Though, I absolutely disagree with the Equinox comparison. That is Solterra territory.
There is literally NO other compact AWD off-road capable BEV CUV in the US.
This and the C-HR are basically in a class by themselves.
Cars like the Mach-e, IONIQ 5, Equinox, ID. 4, Model S are just too big. And even if they weren’t the Uncharted still has better ground clearance and off-road capabilities than any of those.
And the Uncharted is easier to maneuver in urban environments and will better fit in your garage where space may be tight.
Maybe if there was an AWD Leaf or an EV version of something like a Mazda3 AWD hatchback, we could have a conversation.
Folks might bring up a Model 3, but that is closer in styling to a sedan and not meant for off-road adventuring.
Between the Uncharted and C-HR, only the Subaru offers the ventilated seats and the digital rear view mirror feature; so, the Uncharted get my vote and will likely be my next EV.
So, while we can all recognize that a Solterra or Trailseeker has more interior space, that is NOT applicable to evaluating the Uncharted. Folks craving a small SUV that is easy to zip around town with no worries about parking in tight spaces and take you off-road for your outdoor adventures, the Uncharted is an awesome choice.
I really wish other manufacturers would offer features like AWD and ventilated seats in smaller EVs in the US.
Until they do, the Uncharted and C-HR stand alone as the only compact AWD off-road capable options right now.
Anyhoo, thx again for the review and first drive. Enjoyed it.
reply
Good review. Enjoyed it.
Though, I absolutely disagree with the Equinox comparison. That is Solterra territory.
There is literally NO other compact AWD off-road capable BEV CUV in the US.
This and the C-HR are basically in a class by themselves.
Cars like the Mach-e, IONIQ 5, Equinox, ID. 4, Model S are just too big. And even if they weren’t the Uncharted still has better ground clearance and off-road capabilities than any of those.
And the Uncharted is easier to maneuver in urban environments and will better fit in your garage where space may be tight.
Maybe if there was an AWD Leaf or an EV version of something like a Mazda3 AWD hatchback, we could have a conversation.
Folks might bring up a Model 3, but that is closer in styling to a sedan and not meant for off-road adventuring.
Between the Uncharted and C-HR, only the Subaru offers the ventilated seats and the digital rear view mirror feature; so, the Uncharted get my vote and will likely be my next EV.
So, while we can all recognize that a Solterra or Trailseeker has more interior space, that is NOT applicable to evaluating the Uncharted. Folks craving a small SUV that is easy to zip around town with no worries about parking in tight spaces and take you off-road for your outdoor adventures, the Uncharted is an awesome choice.
I really wish other manufacturers would offer features like AWD and ventilated seats in smaller EVs in the US.
Until they do, the Uncharted and C-HR stand alone as the only compact AWD off-road capable options right now.
Anyhoo, thx again for the review and first drive. Enjoyed it.
reply
hpham72
Good review as always, but something I think reviewers are missing about Toyota's EV strategy with their current lineup is to have good range with less battery capacity. Battery capacity of 85 kWh in the Equinox gives you 319/307 miles while the 74. 7 kWh gives you 308/287 miles. So the Equinox gives you about 5% more range but using a 14% bigger battery. The efficiency of the Uncharted matters for not only saving money charging but also minutes at the fast charger (they both have the same max 150 kWh charging speeds) or hours at home on level 1 or 2. Not to mention the weight saved in the smaller battery.
edit: This is how Subaru is able to claim the Uncharted can charge from 10-80% on a fast charger in 28 minutes compared to an estimated 36-45 minutes (according to Gemini as I don't see any posted Chevy claims) for the Equinox.
reply
Good review as always, but something I think reviewers are missing about Toyota's EV strategy with their current lineup is to have good range with less battery capacity. Battery capacity of 85 kWh in the Equinox gives you 319/307 miles while the 74. 7 kWh gives you 308/287 miles. So the Equinox gives you about 5% more range but using a 14% bigger battery. The efficiency of the Uncharted matters for not only saving money charging but also minutes at the fast charger (they both have the same max 150 kWh charging speeds) or hours at home on level 1 or 2. Not to mention the weight saved in the smaller battery.
edit: This is how Subaru is able to claim the Uncharted can charge from 10-80% on a fast charger in 28 minutes compared to an estimated 36-45 minutes (according to Gemini as I don't see any posted Chevy claims) for the Equinox.
reply
Noah_E
Thanks for reminding me why I traded my Crosstrek for a Forester. The rear seat being that low and your head essentially touching the ceiling is a no. Also, the amount of cost cutting on EVs is getting ridiculous. $45k with no spare tire, no glove box, nowhere near enough real buttons and dials, completely unintegrated screens, and no rear wiper Good review, but why didn't you mention the lack of a spare That's a BIG problem that needs to stop happening. Tire 'repair kits' are generally useless. Again, lazy engineering and cost cutting being put ahead of the customer's best interests.
reply
Thanks for reminding me why I traded my Crosstrek for a Forester. The rear seat being that low and your head essentially touching the ceiling is a no. Also, the amount of cost cutting on EVs is getting ridiculous. $45k with no spare tire, no glove box, nowhere near enough real buttons and dials, completely unintegrated screens, and no rear wiper Good review, but why didn't you mention the lack of a spare That's a BIG problem that needs to stop happening. Tire 'repair kits' are generally useless. Again, lazy engineering and cost cutting being put ahead of the customer's best interests.
reply
We-R-Modern
The Toyota version has $5000 off a cash buy and $6500 of a lease as I type this. I suspect you'll be able to get a good deal on either the Toyota or Subaru version if you're interested. The Subaru top spec GT have ventilated front seats and a digital rear view mirror which Toyota doesn't offer at all if that's important.
One thing that I could be wrong on is the lack of native route planning, I think you'll need to use a third party. That aside, these seems to be a decent value with how aggressive Toyota is being right out the gate - I assume Subaru will follow suit.
reply
The Toyota version has $5000 off a cash buy and $6500 of a lease as I type this. I suspect you'll be able to get a good deal on either the Toyota or Subaru version if you're interested. The Subaru top spec GT have ventilated front seats and a digital rear view mirror which Toyota doesn't offer at all if that's important.
One thing that I could be wrong on is the lack of native route planning, I think you'll need to use a third party. That aside, these seems to be a decent value with how aggressive Toyota is being right out the gate - I assume Subaru will follow suit.
reply
acsmoothing2262
The one miss to me, shared between all of the BZ-derived EVs, is the reliance on Toyota’s infotainment software. Not enough physical buttons, and in practice the most frustrating I have ever used. Just try to tune the radio as a passenger, for example. It’s a multi-step process! Apart from that, the low-ish fast charging rate is acceptable as long as these models are competitive on price and efficiency. Also, I’m glad that the Uncharted/ChR twins are smaller than the BZ. Makes for two more true compact EVs in the US market, which is somewhat lacking.
reply
The one miss to me, shared between all of the BZ-derived EVs, is the reliance on Toyota’s infotainment software. Not enough physical buttons, and in practice the most frustrating I have ever used. Just try to tune the radio as a passenger, for example. It’s a multi-step process! Apart from that, the low-ish fast charging rate is acceptable as long as these models are competitive on price and efficiency. Also, I’m glad that the Uncharted/ChR twins are smaller than the BZ. Makes for two more true compact EVs in the US market, which is somewhat lacking.
reply
oyoyoyo7624
wow! the design team cooked on this one! i love second generation Foresters. the XTs packed all the speed i needed, but the gas consumption & the noise wasn’t for me. My 2003 non-turbo Forester didn’t inspire confidence when traveling at high speeds on the freeway. this is ticking a lotta boxes for me.
also, i’m on team coupe; i gladly swap storage space for style. a quiet AWD EV with modern styling from a brand i enjoywithout a dealbreaker of an infotainment system! is looking like the vehicle that would be a great fit for me as a daily driver.
reply
wow! the design team cooked on this one! i love second generation Foresters. the XTs packed all the speed i needed, but the gas consumption & the noise wasn’t for me. My 2003 non-turbo Forester didn’t inspire confidence when traveling at high speeds on the freeway. this is ticking a lotta boxes for me.
also, i’m on team coupe; i gladly swap storage space for style. a quiet AWD EV with modern styling from a brand i enjoywithout a dealbreaker of an infotainment system! is looking like the vehicle that would be a great fit for me as a daily driver.
reply
CaptDnaDonut
Once the driving section starts at 13: 42 audio is only coming from the left speaker/headphone: ( Great video as always otherwise. That roof slope for the back seat looks aggressive. Faster than 150kW charging would be nice. I does seems like the minimum now days but as long as the curve is flat and high, then it'll be okay. My standard range Mustang Mach-E tops out at about 118kW but it stays pretty flat after it comes down from its 2-3 minute peak.
reply
Once the driving section starts at 13: 42 audio is only coming from the left speaker/headphone: ( Great video as always otherwise. That roof slope for the back seat looks aggressive. Faster than 150kW charging would be nice. I does seems like the minimum now days but as long as the curve is flat and high, then it'll be okay. My standard range Mustang Mach-E tops out at about 118kW but it stays pretty flat after it comes down from its 2-3 minute peak.
reply
danc1662
Overall decision will be which company offers the better cash back deals. Right now Toyota is offering $5, 000 cash back on the C-HR so you can get the XSE for $35, 000. If Subaru can offer that, I would gladly go for the Uncharted Sport, but Toyota is pulling me in for now. If I can get the GT for $35, 000, that will match the XSE in features and options, plus I can keep the 18 wheels! I just hope I can get the upgraded stereo in the Sport.
reply
Overall decision will be which company offers the better cash back deals. Right now Toyota is offering $5, 000 cash back on the C-HR so you can get the XSE for $35, 000. If Subaru can offer that, I would gladly go for the Uncharted Sport, but Toyota is pulling me in for now. If I can get the GT for $35, 000, that will match the XSE in features and options, plus I can keep the 18 wheels! I just hope I can get the upgraded stereo in the Sport.
reply
mjhowson2389
I read elsewhere that Subaru's Intelligent Assistant voice control, the navigation system, Traffic Jam Assist, and low-speed hands-free driving all require subscriptions after the trial period ends. So, long-term owners or used car buyers will lose out on these features unless they want to pay yet another monthly fee.
reply
I read elsewhere that Subaru's Intelligent Assistant voice control, the navigation system, Traffic Jam Assist, and low-speed hands-free driving all require subscriptions after the trial period ends. So, long-term owners or used car buyers will lose out on these features unless they want to pay yet another monthly fee.
reply
wmwwv3504
I have a jetta r-line with light grey interior. I liked it on the lot, but I have come to hate it. Life happens and it just looks ruddy after a bit. Aside from showing every blemish, it catches light awkwardly at night and is made worse by the steep contrast 2-tone. I'm pretty light sensitive. Just give me black plz.
reply
I have a jetta r-line with light grey interior. I liked it on the lot, but I have come to hate it. Life happens and it just looks ruddy after a bit. Aside from showing every blemish, it catches light awkwardly at night and is made worse by the steep contrast 2-tone. I'm pretty light sensitive. Just give me black plz.
reply
Strungrat
Yes, the more powerful motor and a sporty suspension. Hell the WRE.
I want a sporty coupe and sadly will be checking this out because we have basically more SUV's than anyone could need.
At least this is smaller(still to big, but better) and appears to be sporty(for an SUV.
reply
Yes, the more powerful motor and a sporty suspension. Hell the WRE.
I want a sporty coupe and sadly will be checking this out because we have basically more SUV's than anyone could need.
At least this is smaller(still to big, but better) and appears to be sporty(for an SUV.
reply
shamust60056
Regarding the hidden handle for the back door, I had a '14 Chevy Spark EV, and everyone thought my car was a two door until I showed them. It was a bit of a novelty. I like that you can grab the doors handles (i. e, they're not flush.
reply
Regarding the hidden handle for the back door, I had a '14 Chevy Spark EV, and everyone thought my car was a two door until I showed them. It was a bit of a novelty. I like that you can grab the doors handles (i. e, they're not flush.
reply
n8write
I think these will move and do well. Perfect commuter car that can road trip in a pinch (not the worst charging ever but not your weekly road tripper, Subaru loyalists who do want their first and/or reliable EV will be going for this one.
reply
I think these will move and do well. Perfect commuter car that can road trip in a pinch (not the worst charging ever but not your weekly road tripper, Subaru loyalists who do want their first and/or reliable EV will be going for this one.
reply
letsgetmg788
I really don’t know why everyone is so fixated on a rear wiper on a window with that much slope. It’s no different than drive any coupe/sports car. Nobody has ever said Mustang/challenger/camaro needed a rear wiper. Good grief.
reply
I really don’t know why everyone is so fixated on a rear wiper on a window with that much slope. It’s no different than drive any coupe/sports car. Nobody has ever said Mustang/challenger/camaro needed a rear wiper. Good grief.
reply
arthurs7882
Short listing likely the CHR over this just because the all-wheel drive CHR starts a little bit lower, but seeing new EVs with 150 KW charging Maxima Is ludicrous. My ionic 5 is a 2024 but when they launched they launched with 250.
reply
Short listing likely the CHR over this just because the all-wheel drive CHR starts a little bit lower, but seeing new EVs with 150 KW charging Maxima Is ludicrous. My ionic 5 is a 2024 but when they launched they launched with 250.
reply
Vivi42000
So, your wish list includes, bigger motors so the car is faster, a bigger battery for more range, but you also want it to be cheaper I think that falls under the old work adage of, on time, under budget, high quality, choose two.
reply
So, your wish list includes, bigger motors so the car is faster, a bigger battery for more range, but you also want it to be cheaper I think that falls under the old work adage of, on time, under budget, high quality, choose two.
reply
moocowyn
Always appreciate your detailed reviews. Do you think the Sport trim with its 18 inch wheels would have a softer more comfortable ride, compared to this GT trim with 20 inch ride Or would it probably be a negligible difference
reply
Always appreciate your detailed reviews. Do you think the Sport trim with its 18 inch wheels would have a softer more comfortable ride, compared to this GT trim with 20 inch ride Or would it probably be a negligible difference
reply
ruffmadman
I think it's odd that Subaru chose to offer this with a FWD option while Toyota chose to opt for AWD only. You would think it's the other way around given their heritage, but I guess Subaru wanted the cheaper model
reply
I think it's odd that Subaru chose to offer this with a FWD option while Toyota chose to opt for AWD only. You would think it's the other way around given their heritage, but I guess Subaru wanted the cheaper model
reply
paullandon3942
Like a lot of Subarus pricing models, I see them putting a steep price tag then discounting on the lot to bring people in. I do think a trail seeker base model at 32k would be a very reasonable option
reply
Like a lot of Subarus pricing models, I see them putting a steep price tag then discounting on the lot to bring people in. I do think a trail seeker base model at 32k would be a very reasonable option
reply
jackamick
I’ve noticed seat bunching on my two recent Toyotas. Kinda annoying, might ask the dealer to take a look when I bring my Tacoma in for its first service, but I think they’ll just call it within spec.
reply
I’ve noticed seat bunching on my two recent Toyotas. Kinda annoying, might ask the dealer to take a look when I bring my Tacoma in for its first service, but I think they’ll just call it within spec.
reply
Add a review, comment
Other channel videos
