Uncharted is Subaru’s first front-wheel-drive car, with a range of up to 482 kilometers.

MichaelJul 18, 2025, 11:22 AM

【PCauto】Following the Solterra and Trailseeker, Subaru has introduced its third new model—the Uncharted. Marking Subaru’s first front-wheel-drive model in decades, the Uncharted is based on the Toyota C-HR model.

Compared to the Solterra, the Uncharted’s wheelbase is shortened by 120 mm to 2,770 mm, and its overall length is kept to a compact 4,470 mm—well-suited for narrow urban streets. Even on slopes steeper than 30%, the front-wheel-drive variant maintains stable traction.

C-HR-Based, But Distinctively Subaru

While it shares its underpinnings with the Toyota C-HR, the Uncharted features a more rugged design and a stronger SUV character. It retains the standardized 74.7 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, but its smaller footprint makes it more agile in city environments. Design enhancements include reinforced front and rear bumpers, a roof rack, and unique lighting elements that set it apart from its Toyota sibling.

Subaru’s engineering team has made targeted modifications to the Toyota e-TNGA platform. Ground clearance has been increased to 8.3 inches (211 mm), while the approach and departure angles reach 18.6 and 21.7 degrees respectively—about 15% higher than the Toyota C-HR. Body panels are made from composite plastic, helping reduce weight while improving scratch resistance.

The chassis is tuned for unpaved conditions, with Subaru claiming stable traction on gravel, dirt, and snow. Buyers can choose between 18-inch or 20-inch wheels, with aerodynamic wheel covers available as an option.

Front-Wheel-Drive Variant to Be Offered in Limited Numbers

In the U.S. market, the Uncharted will enter the market with three trims: Premium FWD, Sport, and GT (AWD). The front-wheel-drive version—equipped with a single 221-horsepower motor and a range of up to 300 miles (approximately 482 km)—stands out as one of Subaru’s rare non-AWD models and will be sold in limited numbers.

In an interview, Subaru Product Chief Masashi Yamamoto revealed, “The front-wheel-drive variant accounts for only 15% of initial production, primarily aimed at urban commuters.” This suggests that the FWD variant serves as a market test. Subaru expects most buyers to opt for the dual-motor AWD Sport and GT trims. These models feature a 147-horsepower front motor and a 191-horsepower rear motor, delivering a combined output of 338 horsepower. They accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 5 seconds, with an estimated range of 290 miles (approximately 467 km).

The entire Uncharted lineup comes equipped with a NACS charging port supporting 150 kW DC fast charging, enabling a 10% to 80% charge in about 30 minutes. A battery pre-conditioning system is included to improve charging performance in cold climates. For home charging, an 11-kW onboard charger is standard.

The cabin design is highly similar to that of the Toyota C-HR.

While the exterior highlights the Uncharted’s off-road character—with entirely different body panels despite sharing the same platform with the Toyota C-HR—it features a front bumper reinforced with a 25mm protective steel plate and a rear bumper integrated with a tow hook mount. The roof rack supports a dynamic load of up to 75 kg, suitable for carrying bicycles or kayaks.

However, the shared interior strategy has sparked controversy. The 14-inch central display and infotainment system are identical to Toyota’s, with only a Subaru-themed interface as a differentiator. The steering wheel design has been described by media outlets as an “anti-ergonomic design experiment,” and its touch-sensitive buttons are prone to accidental activation on rough terrain.

The Sport variant features water-resistant seats made from recyclable fishing net materials, emphasizing sustainability. Meanwhile, the GT variant comes equipped with a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system capable of delivering a sound pressure level of up to 110 dB.

Pricing Uncertainty and Market Positioning

Based on current information, the Uncharted’s FWD trim is expected to start at $32,500 (approximately MYR 151,000), while the AWD variant may reach up to $42,000 (around MYR 195,000). This pricing undercuts the Solterra’s $44,995 starting point while commanding roughly a $3,000 premium over the Toyota C-HR.

Finally, Subaru still faces two critical questions: Can consumers accept a front-wheel-drive Subaru? And can this compact electric crossover hold its ground on price amid fierce competition from models like the Tesla Model Y and Hyundai Ioniq 5?

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