by Preparation for the Premiere of the New Electric Crossover
Subaru has announced plans to present a new three-row electric crossover at the New York Auto Show. The premiere will take place on April 1st, but this is not a joke — the model will indeed debut and receive a powerful powertrain.
Key Specifications and Platform
The news concerns an electric car with three rows of seats. The power will be 420 horsepower. Most experts believe the model will be built on a platform shared with Toyota, likely inheriting many features from the Highlander. This is already the fourth such joint development by the two Japanese manufacturers.
Design and Technologies
The manufacturer has released a teaser image showing the front end, which resembles other electric models from the brand, such as the Solterra. Noticeable are the split lighting units, an illuminated logo, as well as a roof rack and a shark-fin antenna. The car is expected to receive a modern digital instrument panel with a 12.3-inch diagonal and a 14-inch multimedia system.
Subaru isn’t saying much, but there’s little doubt the model will be yet another badge engineered vehicle shared with Toyota.
Expected Technical Features
The model is expected to borrow technical solutions from the Highlander, including battery options with capacities of 77 and 95.8 kWh. A choice between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive will be offered. The driving range is expected to be from 270 to 320 miles. The model will also have a NACS standard charging port, DC fast charging capability, and a cable for charging from a standard power outlet.
Market Launch Timeline
The updated Toyota Highlander is set to appear at the end of this year, so the new Subaru will likely hit the market around the same period. This marks another step by Subaru towards electrifying its model range, aimed at family buyers in need of a spacious car.
The appearance of the new Subaru electric crossover on a platform shared with Toyota is a logical continuation of the partnership between the two automakers. This approach allows for significant reduction in development costs and time-to-market for new electric vehicles, which is especially relevant in conditions of fierce competition. For buyers, this could mean getting a reliable car with technologies and a safety approach characteristic of Subaru, but on a modern electric foundation. The success of this model will largely depend on the final price, the quality of execution of the three-row interior, and the real-world driving range under various operating conditions.
