Subaru Uncharted Evaluated for New Zealand as Second Pure-Electric SUV
“It’s the next obvious step for us,” says Subaru of New Zealand general manager Paul Mallard
Subaru of New Zealand is evaluating the Uncharted compact-SUV as a potential second pure-electric model to join the larger Trailseeker in local showrooms from early 2027, Driven Car Guide reported.
Evaluating the Uncharted in the Local Market
The company has landed two Uncharted evaluation units to conduct dealer consultations and public viewings. The model will appear at the NZ EV & Tech Expo at the Auckland Showgrounds next month, according to Driven Car Guide. Tarmaclife.co.nz reported that the local team is putting the evaluation units through their paces to gauge how the newcomer fits into the competitive local market after arriving just days prior.
Paul Mallard stated that getting the pricing and positioning right is essential to making the vehicle work in the market, noting that the team wants to give the Trailseeker a strong initial run first. Mallard added that if evaluations succeed, the Uncharted could arrive in Kiwi showrooms during the first quarter of 2027 following discussions with counterparts in Japan regarding precise specifications for New Zealand.
Uncharted Shares Architecture with Trailseeker but Offers Less Power
The Uncharted utilizes the same platform and electric architecture as the Trailseeker, though it measures 300mm shorter and features a coupe-style profile. Both models share a 74.7kWh battery, but the Uncharted delivers a WLTP range of 522km. Power output reaches 252kW via a detuned rear motor, allowing the compact SUV to hit 100km/h in approximately five seconds, which trails the Trailseeker’s 280kW output.
Tarmaclife.co.nz noted that the distributor Inchcape handles the brand in both Australia and New Zealand, suggesting a twin specification model for across the Tasman. In Australia, the Uncharted prices approximately $3k below the Solterra and $5k below the Trailseeker, which carries a starting price of $68,990 in New Zealand. Potential market rivals include the Suzuki e Vitara AWD starting at $64,990, alongside premium competitors like the Volvo EX30 Cross Country priced at $69,990.
Mallard addressed the future of the Solterra, explaining that supporting a three-model electric lineup is difficult given the competition, though an updated Solterra could serve as a middle option between the Uncharted and Trailseeker if demand warrants.