Subaru

Before you ask, yes, the Trailseeker is a Toyota bZ Woodland with a different badge. Think of this then as a stretched Solterra, or an EV Outback of sorts. It was first shown at the 2025 New York International Auto Show back in April, and Subaru said sales will start later this year.

Now, that time has come as the company has finally announced its pricing, released all the trims, and mentioned more details. With that, the Trailseeker beats its twin in pricing announcement, but let's be honest, more people will flock to Toyota showrooms. After all, the bZ has been outselling the Solterra (12,264 vs 9,972, respectively, as of September 2025), and it’s likely it’ll be the same case for the bZ Woodland and Trailseeker. It also helps that Toyota has a larger dealer network compared to Subaru.

Subaru

There are three trims to choose from for the 2026 Trailseeker. It starts with the Premium, followed by the Limited, and topped off by the Premium. It follows Subaru's trim level hierarchy to keep things simple and familiar for its customers.

As for pricing, the Premium starts at a hair under 40 grand at $39,995. Move up to the Limited, and that one carries a base price of $43,995 thanks to the addition of more equipment. As for the Touring, the top-spec model goes for $46,555 with all the bells and whistles attached to it. There are several options available for the Trailseeker, although that list becomes thinner the higher you go up the range.

Subaru

All Trailseekers come standard with a 14-inch Subaru Multimedia System with wireless phone connectivity, dual wireless charging pads, heated front seats, a power tailgate, EyeSight driver assist tech, and X-Mode Dual-Mode all-wheel drive, to name a few.

The Trailseeker Limited then adds a Harman/Kardon audio system, a 360-degree camera, heated seats at the front and rear, plus a heated steering wheel, hands-free tailgate, and 20-inch alloys instead of 18s fitted to the Premium. As for the Touring, that one gets all the features found in the Limited, plus a panoramic glass roof, ventilated front seats, and gloss black hood accents.

Other things worth mentioning? There's 32.2 cubic feet of cargo room behind the back seats, so that should make the Trailseeker a practical proposition. The roof rails are functional, by the way, and they can hold up to 700 lbs worth of static load. And for those brave enough to tow with an EV, Subaru claims a towing capacity of up to 3,500 lbs.

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Regardless of trim chosen, all Trailseekers use a 74.7-kWh lithium-ion battery pack. As it's all-wheel drive, that battery provides energy to two electric motors. Subaru says its latest EV crossover has fast-charging capability of up to 150 kW, allowing it to charge from 0 to 80% in 28 minutes. The estimated range is 280 miles per full charge.

With two motors, the Trailseeker packs 375 hp. That said, torque figures have yet to be released, but we reckon it's got a good slug of it from a standstill. 0 to 60 mph is claimed at 4.4 seconds, fast enough for Subaru to say it's the quickest model the company has ever offered in the US.

The Trailseeker won't be the only Subaru EV coming to showrooms in Spring 2026. The company will soon roll out the Uncharted around the same time.

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Subaru

Now that bad weather is in full swing, even before it's officially winter, it's time to set your car shopping focus on some of the best vehicles that can handle the cold, wet, and icy stuff better than most. When temperatures drop and roads turn slick, the right vehicle can make the difference between frustration and confidence, between getting stuck and getting there.

Winter driving demands excellent traction, decent ground clearance, vehicle stability, safety, and comfort, and some cars and SUVs manage those aspects better than others. Just because a vehicle has all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive doesn't make it ideal for winter. Below is a guide to the best cars and SUVs for snow and winter driving in 2025, chosen for their all-wheel-drive systems, snow-mode technology, and cold-weather comfort and usability.

Subaru has a long reputation for building cars that thrive in bad weather, and the redesigned Forester ($29,995) is the most accessible and most popular model in the brand's all-wheel drive lineup. The 2026 Forester comes standard with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, a system designed for balanced traction and predictable handling in snow and ice. Combined with standard EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, Active Torque Vectoring, Vehicle Dynamics Control, and impressive crash test scores, the Forester is one of the best foul-weather vehicles sold today.

Subaru

With 8.7 inches of ground clearance (9.3 on the Wilderness trim), the Forester can handle unplowed driveways, slushy roads, and even snowy trails without drama. Subaru’s X-Mode automatically adjusts throttle response, transmission mapping, and traction control to keep the vehicle composed on snow or mud, providing surefootedness in difficult situations. The tall windows provide remarkable 360-visibility, and the manageable size makes the Subaru Forester an excellent vehicle in the uncertainty of snowy parking lots.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 ($33,350) has been fully redesigned, prepared to take the mantle of the best-selling crossover in America. The new 6th-generation RAV4 is now hybrid only and continues to be one of the most winter-ready compact crossovers available. It comes in a mind-boggling seven trims, including LE, SE, XLE Premium, Woodland, XSE, and Limited. There's even an SE PHEV. All-wheel drive models get two electric motors mated to a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine good for 236 horsepower.

Toyota

The 2026 RAV4 will introduce a more advanced Dynamic Torque Vectoring All-Wheel Drive (TV-AWD) system that can send power to individual rear wheels for improved traction and cornering stability. Designed for confidence on rough terrain and in poor weather, this upgraded setup also features enhanced terrain management modes for smarter, more adaptable all-weather performance. With 8.6 inches of ground clearance and selectable drive modes for snow and mud, the RAV4 stays composed even when conditions are crappy. The available heated seats, steering wheel, and dual-zone climate control make cold starts far more comfortable, too.

Honda

The 2026 Honda CR-V ($30,920 has become one of the most well-rounded crossovers for year-round use. It's not just comfy to ride in and sporty to drive, but it's also prepared for the snowy stuff. Whether you choose a gas (190 horsepower) or hybrid (204 horsepower) trim, the CR-V's available Real Time AWD system continuously monitors traction and can send up to half of the engine’s power to the rear wheels when needed. AWD comes standard on the TrailSport Hybrid and the Sport Touring Hybrid, but as a $1,600 add-on for the other trims, it's not much coin.

Honda

Snow mode helps prevent wheelspin by adjusting throttle response and transmission behavior. The cabin is also designed for winter practicality with large, glove-friendly controls and available heated seats and steering wheel. The CR-V Hybrid delivers the same winter confidence with better fuel economy, making it a great choice for long commutes or weekend trips in cold weather.

Toyota

The Toyota Grand Highlander ($41,360) is an excellent family SUV for tough winters. Toyota's much-praised three-row hauler offers available all-wheel drive for just $1,600 on lower trims and as standard equipment on higher trims, along with strong ground clearance, and a Multi-Terrain Select system (Platinum trim and above) that includes Snow and Mud modes. This means less time spent digging out of difficult winter driving conditions and more time enjoying the superb three-row legroom that's made the Grand Highlander such a hit with families.

Toyota

The Grand Highlander is also remarkably easy to drive for a three-row SUV, and it provides great visibility in bad conditions. On top of that, it's comfortable, quiet, and stable on slippery highways. Features like available heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and remote start make cold mornings easier. The Grand Highlander Hybrid also provides the same traction benefits with superior 36 mpg city and 32 mpg highway fuel efficiency.

Stellantis

The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee ($40,730) gets a facelift, better tech, and a new turbo-four engine choice, but remains one of the most capable SUVs for snow and ice. You can choose between a 293-hp V6 (standard), a 324-hp turbo four, and the 4xe PHEV with 375 horsepower. It offers four-wheel-drive systems, from the automatic Quadra-Trac I to the advanced Quadra-Drive II with a locking rear differential. A Selec-Terrain system lets the driver choose Snow, Mud, Sand, or Auto modes for optimized traction. When equipped with the Quadra Lift air suspension, ride height can increase to nearly 11 inches, providing excellent clearance for deep snow or unplowed roads.

The interior is roomy and well-appointed, including standard heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and remote start on the 3rd-tier Altitude trim and higher. You can also upgrade to the Grand Cherokee L, which provides a third row of seating and more cargo space than the already capacious Grand Cherokee. The max towing capacity of 6,200 pounds is another reason to check out the Grand Cherokee.

If it's winter driving thrills you crave, it's hard to beat the powerful and tractable 2026 Subaru WRX ($37,750). Drivers who want sedan performance and winter confidence should consider the Subaru WRX because of its standard all-wheel drive and 271-horsepower turbocharged engine that make it one of the most balanced and sure-footed cars in bad weather. With great steering, a low center of gravity, a limited-slip differential, and an available six-speed manual transmission, it's hard to beat when it comes to controlled cornering in the snow.

The WRX’s compact dimensions, good balance, and symmetrical AWD system allow it to stay stable on snowy roads while still providing engaging handling. With a set of proper snow tires, it becomes an impressive year-round performer that combines daily drivability with rally-inspired fun. Standard EyeSight safety tech keeps things in check, and available heated front seats mean you don't have to suffer in the cold. It might not be your first choice for a winter commuter, but it's one of the most entertaining.

Toyota

When conditions turn severe, the 2026 Toyota 4Runner ($41,570) is a proven performer, and you don't have to get a top trim TRD Pro or Trailhunter model in order to reap the benefits. Available in gas or hybrid trims, the 4Runner's rugged body-on-frame construction, available part-time or full-time four-wheel drive, and up to 9.6 inches of ground clearance make it ideal for heavy snow and unpredictable terrain. Even the base SR5 trim gets you 278 horsepower and 6,000 pounds of towing capacity. The top trim TRD Pro benefits from a turbocharged hybrid powertrain with 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque.

Toyota

Go just one level up from the base SR5 to the TRD Sport trim, and the cabin provides heated front row seats. Moving up the ladder, the cold weather comfort only increases with features like heated rear seats and a heated steering wheel. The A-TRAC traction-control system limits wheelspin to maintain control on slippery surfaces, and TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro models include all-terrain tires and skid plates for added protection. The 4Runner remains one of the most dependable choices for areas with deep snow or unplowed roads.

GMC

The big boys in this set are excellent for winter if you need a bigger body-on-frame SUV to tow with and manage the arctic tundra of your poorly plowed neighborhoods. For large families driving through snow-covered roads, the Chevrolet Tahoe ($65,095) and GMC Yukon ($69,200) are reliable full-size options with gas or turbodiesel engine choices and seating for up to 8. Both offer advanced 4WD systems, selectable drive modes, and 8 inches of ground clearance. The rugged Yukon AT4 has a standard ground clearance of 8 inches, which can be increased to 10 inches with the available Air Ride Adaptive Suspension in its off-road mode.

The cabins of both vehicles are anything but rough, providing creature comforts that a luxury sedan would envy. Even the base Elevation trim for the Yukon provides heated front and second-row seats, as well as a heated steering wheel. For the Tahoe, you do have to step up one level from base to the LT trim to get heated front seats, but at least the entire trim line above base has these features as standard. When it comes to the driving experience, both big SUVs manage their weight well, and available traction management systems make them surprisingly easy to live with in harsh winters.

The Ford Bronco Sport ($31,695) might not be as big and burly as its Bronco sibling, but it's the one we'd choose for daily winter duties. The Sport combines rugged looks with practical capability in a compact package. You can choose between a 181-hp 3-cylinder engine or a 250-hp 4-cylinder. Its standard all-wheel drive and G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Terrain) modes include settings for Sand, Slippery, and Snow, giving it strong traction when conditions get tricky. Ground clearance varies by trim but can reach up to 8.8 inches, which is more than enough for most winter driving. The Bronco Sport’s upright stance, short overhangs, and boxy body help it handle deeper snow better than most small crossovers.

Due to its size, it's also a very manageable ride in winter, and it's pretty fun to drive with communicative steering and good reflexes. Inside, the Bronco Sport is comfortable and functional, with easy-to-clean materials and available heated front seats and steering wheel on the Outer Banks trim and higher. It’s an excellent choice for drivers who want winter confidence and weekend adventure potential without committing to a full-size SUV.

The best cars and SUVs for snow and winter driving in 2025 depend on your needs and environment. The good news is that they can range from sporty compact sedans all the way to full-size SUVs. No matter which vehicle you choose, pairing it with a set of winter tires will make the biggest difference in safety and control. With the right combination of traction, clearance, and preparation, winter driving can be not only manageable but enjoyable.

Subaru doesn't have the operational scale of Toyota or Honda, which likely explains why it's taking baby steps towards electrification. The company's electrification journey began in 2013 with the Crosstrek hybrid, followed by the Forester e-Boxer in 2019.

With a bit of help from Toyota, Subaru launched its first EV with the Solterra in 2023. It's currently complemented by the new Crosstrek hybrid and the Forester hybrid. But soon, there might be a third model joining the range.

Cole Attisha

Nearly all of Subaru's competitors have a hybrid model for every class, whether in the U.S. or abroad. However, Subaru is limited to only two models, and perhaps it's about time they expanded their electrified lineup.

Now, it seems that it could happen soon. Australia's Drive reports that the newly redesigned Outback could quickly get a hybrid option. Subaru Outback product manager Toshihiro Ohya told the publication during the Japan Mobility Show, "Hybrid... we are considering some power unit, but we have not decided the next power unit."

That was in response to Australia's looming emissions rules that penalize automakers with higher-than-average emissions. Think CAFE standards, but Down Under, and yes, they're pretty strict down there too.

Subaru

The likeliest candidate we can think of could be found in the Crosstrek and Forester hybrid. It's a 2.5-liter engine paired to two motors and a 1.1kWh battery that's good for 194 horsepower, with the electric motor putting out 199 lb-ft of torque.

It's not exactly a ball of fire, but Subaru's current hybrid setup delivers more punch than the base engine in the current Outback, which we found a bit lethargic. For reference, the non-turbocharged models make 180 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque. It also does 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, according to the EPA. Sprinkling in some electrified bits should help it consistently stay above 30 mpg, even with some traffic.

That said, the Outback is a larger vehicle so that it might need a little more grunt. Could there be a turbo-hybrid in development? It's hard to tell at the moment, but Subaru does have the hardware to get the Outback hybrid started.

Subaru

We're pretty sure every Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ owner is well aware of the oil pressure issues in their cars. It's also a cautionary tale to any prospective buyers of these cars, whether new or used.

Let's be honest, the Toyobaru twins are destined to do laps around the track. They're great handlers, but as previously reported, the second-generation models struggle to keep consistent oil pressure in high-G situations. High-speed sweeping bends are not the engine's best friend, as proven by Brian Armstrong, the person behind the YouTube channel 900BRZ.

Armstrong identified the most likely root cause of the oil pressure problem. A good chunk of the oil starvation stemmed from the oil pump pickup tube, which allowed oil to spill onto the timing cover instead of being redirected to the oil pan.

To cure that, the oil pan needed a bit of a redesign. It had to be done in a way that directs oil towards the pan and reduces the risk of it spilling elsewhere. Verus Engineering saw Armstrong's results and fabricated the part to maintain stable pressures.

Subaru

Verus Engineering developed a 3D-printed aluminum oil pan that uses baffles. Baffling is the use of panels or vanes installed inside equipment to control the flow of liquids — in this case, oil. Verus worked with Armstrong to build the final product and was put to the test.

With the aftermarket oil pan installed, oil pressure and levels remained stable, even during track use. Oil capacity also increased to 7 quarts, ensuring lubrication even at higher corner speeds. The pan is a different shape from the stock unit and custom-fit to slot right in the GR 86's and BRZ's factory exhaust manifolds. That's for those who'd prefer to keep their car emissions compliant.

Great news then for track folks with any of the Toyobaru twins. The product is available for order on the Verus Engineering website, and it's yours for $999.95. It's not cheap, but it's sure better than blowing up an engine.

Verus Engineering

Verus Engineering

They genuinely don't make them like this anymore. Subaru of America's current range is dominated by crossovers, with the exception of the Legacy sedan, the WRX sedan, the Impreza hatch, and the BRZ coupe, and not one of them is available in STi flavor. But a little more than 20 years ago, before the Impreza and WRX were split in two, there was this 2004 Impreza WRX STi, now for sale on Bring a Trailer. This was four years before Subaru left the World Rally Championship due to the 2008 recession, and Subaru's main marketing tool was that it offered a road-going rally car to rival the cult favorite Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution. With a day left to bid, this "blob-eye" STi is currently bidding at just $32,000. That's less than a mid-spec 2025 Toyota Camry Nightshade ($32,300 before a $1,195 destination charge).

Bring a Trailer

This WRX STi is equipped with a 2.5-liter turbocharged flat-four (300 horsepower/300 lb-ft of torque) that drives all four 17-inch BBS 10-spoke alloy wheels (finished in gold, as they should be) through a six-speed manual transaxle, and it's done so for just 14,100 miles, which means the driver-controlled center differential and limited-slip front and rear differentials haven't seen much abuse. Brembo four-piston front and two-piston rear brake calipers provide stopping power, and although the vehicle has been fitted with aftermarket fog lights (which actually make it look like a non-STi WRX), the vehicle is otherwise unmolested. In addition, the Java Black paint looks pristine, with the auction listing including paint meter readings to prove just how clean it is. More proof of careful ownership comes in the mention of fresh Toyo Extensa HP II tires being fitted earlier this year, and an oil change was recently performed in preparation for the sale.

Bring a Trailer

Inside, the front STi-emblazoned bucket seats and rear bench show minimal wear on their black cloth and blue perforated Ecsaine suede-inserted upholstery. Features for the cabin include single-zone automatic climate control, power windows, and an Alpine head unit with a CD player - if you still have any. Enthusiasts will be much more interested in the rare, optional column-mounted Lamco boost gauge behind the leather-wrapped and red-stitched steering wheel, allowing one to see the EJ257 engine hit peak boost of 16-18 psi. That threshold was hardly ever seen over the last two decades, if at all, as the car reportedly only covered 600 miles since 2004. Originally a California car, it moved to Idaho under the original buyer's ownership and is still titled there with an accident-free Carfax report. The only thing this car needs is some paint protection film to protect the swirl-prone black paint, and it's ready for someone to live out their Colin McRae/Petter Solberg/Ken Block fantasies.

Japan has been in the SUV game long before the term SUV was even coined. Prior to that, they were called RVs or recreational vehicles over there, and totally unrelated to the American definition of RV. By the '80s, more of these RVs were being rolled out, with the Mitsubishi Pajero (Montero in the US and other Spanish-speaking countries), Isuzu Trooper, and Toyota 4Runner.

But towards the '90s, Japanese manufacturers were already considering smaller, car-based versions of these RVs. Toyota was among the first to make its plans public with the RAV Four concept in 1989, eventually becoming the RAV4 in 1994. The year after, Honda responded by premiering the CR-V during the 1995 Tokyo Motor Show.

But another crossover was shown in Tokyo at the same time. It was the Subaru Streega concept, but it would later become Subaru's best-selling model ever.

Subaru

Subaru was reinvigorated in the late-80s with the introduction of the Legacy in 1989. It was followed by the Impreza in 1993, which replaced the aging Leone. There was also the radical SVX grand tourer, a product that was spurred by Japan's booming economy at the time.

The folks from Gunma were riding high, and it seems that the RAV Four Concept inspired them to give this whole car-based RV thing a shot. The Streega concept was the fruit of that idea. As far as concepts went, it looked production-ready. There were no silly details or whimsical styling cues to be found here.

Subaru

The Streega rode on a shortened Legacy platform, and it was actually a working, running vehicle. But it's not just the chassis that's from the midsize sedan and wagon. The Legacy also donated its independent suspension, all-wheel drive system, and automatic transmission.

Subaru touted the Streega as an MSV, or Multi-Sport Vehicle. It was able to back that claim by putting in an engine from the Impreza WRX from the same era. That meant a 2.0-liter turbocharged boxer engine resided under its hood. It made 248 hp and 228 lb-ft of torque, impressive numbers for 1995.

Subaru

After it was shown in Tokyo, the Streega was then exhibited at the 1996 North American International Auto Show. At the time, Wards Auto said the production version would go on sale soon and carried the code name 79-V. Turns out they were right, although it wouldn't reach the US until 1998, and it wouldn't be called Streega.

The production model was called the Subaru Forester, a name we're all familiar with by now. It was rolled out in Japan in February 1997, about a year and a half after the Streega made its debut. Its transition from concept to reality looked smooth, too, although there are a couple of key differences.

Subaru

The entire front end was redesigned, and a few more lines were added to the body. Some minor alterations were made to the tailgate, and the taillights were changed, but still resembled the concept model. But the most significant difference here was the platform. Whereas the Streega was heavily based on the Legacy, the Forester would get most of its DNA from the smaller Impreza.

Subaru delivered on its promise to offer a Multi Sport Vehicle. In select markets, it was offered with a turbocharged 2.0-liter boxer straight from Impreza WRX, just like the concept. It was even offered with a manual transmission, practically turning it into the most practical rally car anyone can buy. Well, anyone except Americans. We had to wait until the second generation to get our hands on the boosted Forester. Other engine options included a naturally-aspirated version of the 2.0-liter, as well as a 2.5-liter boxer, which was the only option for America. Boo.

Subaru

It's a big gamble for any automaker to build a car in an emerging segment. Subaru timed it just right, and the Forester had already become an established name by the dawn of the new millennium. It, along with the RAV4 and CR-V, made other automakers play catch-up in the compact crossover game. Today, it's the hottest contested segment, and the Forester remains a solid choice.

Six generations have rolled out since 1997. The first two generations were tall-roofed wagons with a little bit more ground clearance, but it went full SUV mode in 2008 with the introduction of the third generation. Since then, the Forester has seen more gentle evolutions, but at least the hot versions lasted until 2018.

After that, Foresters became a little more sedate with no performance versions since the fifth generation. The fastest model you can get now is the hybrid.

Yes, we know, it's a sign of the times. A turbocharged Forester is still available in Japan, but it's a 1.8-liter mill with no sporting intentions at all. Mind you, we still think it's a pleasant and capable crossover, but we do wish Subaru would return to the Forester's roots as a Multi Sport Vehicle and put the WRX's engine back in.

Cole Attisha

If your favorite carmaker doesn’t make the model you actually want, what do you do? For one Subaru fan from northern Virginia, the answer was to take matters into his own hands. Stephen Ketelsen’s ideal ride is a modern WRX hatchback, but Subaru only makes a WRX sedan. This led to Ketelsen creating his own WRX hatchback, which combines the WRX powertrain with the body of a Crosstrek Ketelsen purchased back in 2020. After a lot of elbow grease and assistance from a Subaru specialty shop, the final product looks like the perfect Toyota GR Corolla rival.

Related: Top 5 Features That Make the 2025 Subaru WRX tS a Surprisingly Good Family Car

Custom Subaru WRX Hatchback

Stephen Ketelsen

The desire to take on a project of this magnitude started with the Subaru enthusiast’s purchase of a previous-generation Crosstrek, but although it had a manual, the crossover’s underpowered four-cylinder engine was a disappointment. However, Ketelsen still had a soft spot for the Crosstrek, his first new car, so embarked on a much more daring way to keep it but add more power.

“Once the WRX moved to Subaru's Global Platform with the new generation, it kind of presented an opportunity in my head,” Ketelsen told Road & Track. “Because that whole premise is that all of Subaru's models are built on the same chassis, essentially, and then it's just modular from there: what powertrain goes in it, suspension and subframes and body panels and all that.”

Mach V Motorsports, a Subaru specialty shop in Virginia, worked with Ketelsen to prove the viability of the idea, and once he had test-driven a new WRX, nothing could stop the project from going ahead. A wrecked WRX from Copart provided the powertrain and interior, and that’s when the fun really began.

Related: 2025 Subaru WRX vs Mazda3 Turbo: A Sport Sedan Showdown

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The older Crosstrek and new WRX have different body styles, so it figures that tearing apart the Crosstrek and making the WRX’s powertrain and interior fit would present some problems. Fortunately, the shared platform allowed the more powerful 271-horsepower WRX flat-four to fit without any major problems, but items like the rear seats and third brake light were challenging. Ketelsen began tearing apart the cars himself in his garage, but soon realized he’d need help with more complex sections.

“When I moved up front, I pretty quickly realized that I didn't really have the means to do it on my own,” Ketelsen said. “My garage had parts lined from floor to ceiling just from pulling all the stuff off."

The WRX’s radiator, condenser, and fans were not identical to the Crosstrek’s though, so a body shop worked its magic to make everything fit, while also transplanting fenders and other parts from the new WRX onto the shell of the old Crosstrek. The finished product is a hot hatch any Subaru fan would be proud of, and looks far more appealing than a new Impreza, the only other hatchback Subaru sells in the United States right now. 

“You know, it’s awesome. I love it,” Ketelsen said about driving his new car. “If you close your eyes, it sounds like one, it drives like one, it shifts like. So it’s, for all intents and purposes, a stock WRX.”

All we need now is for someone to find a way to create a modern version of the iconic WRX wagon for Americans, a car that still does a few things better than today’s WRX sedan.

Related: The Subaru WRX STI Wagon Is Now Available But You Can't Have One

Subaru's first foray into the EV market is a result of a partnership with Toyota. The Solterra has been around since mid-2022 for the 2023 model year, and the same goes for its twin, the crossover formerly known as the bZ4X. Both EVs have been updated for 2026, and while Toyota simplified its name to just bZ, Subaru stuck with Solterra.

The facelift brings with it a fresher look with its redesigned front end, along with hardware changes to boost range. The 2026 Solterra is available in five trims with two powertrain choices. Prices range from $38,495 to $45,885.

Subaru

For November, there is a special lease offer for the 2026 Solterra Premium available on Subaru's official website. The clincher here is that it starts at below $400 per month. The deal is $339 per month for 36 months, with a due-at-sign payment of $2,839. Offer is valid until December 1, 2025, and it's $0.15 for every mile beyond 10,000 miles (annual).

And for those looking to lease the Solterra for less, there is a second option. There is also a lease special for the 2025 model for $299 for 36 months. Mind you, it still has the older look with smaller batteries. Same terms and conditions apply.

Subaru

The most important update made to the Solterra is the larger battery pack. It's increased to 74.7kWh, giving a range improvement of about 25 percent. The range depends on the trim chosen, but all benefit from the larger batteries nonetheless.

Like the bZ, the Solterra gets more powerful motors for the 2026 model year. Power rises to 233 hp for the single-motor versions, and climbs to 338 hp for the dual-motor all-wheel drive models.

Solterra trim levels consist of Premium, Limited, Limited XT, Touring XT, and Touring XT Leather. Unlike its Toyota counterpart, the Solterra is all-wheel drive only, not that we're complaining.

Subaru

Why choose the Solterra over the bZ? Well, the Subaru is a little cheaper to lease than the Toyota, plus you get the benefit of having all-wheel drive as standard. The Solterra also has different suspension tuning from the bZ, with the Subaru version having a more handling-oriented tune. The two may be twins, but the Subaru does offer slightly better value.

Subaru

Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. The information presented herein is based on manufacturer-provided lease offer information, which is subject to frequent change and may vary based on location, creditworthiness, and other factors. We are not a party to any lease agreements and assume no liability for the terms, conditions, availability, or accuracy of any lease offers mentioned. All terms, including but not limited to pricing, mileage allowances, and residual values, require direct verification with an authorized local OEM dealership. This article does not constitute financial advice or an endorsement of any particular lease or vehicle.

By the late 2000s, Subaru realized it needed a larger seven-seat crossover to compete with the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. Its first attempt didn't go so well with the controversially styled Tribeca. Thankfully, Subaru regrouped and launched the Ascent in 2018 for the 2019 model year.

Today, the Ascent is a solid seller and a far more successful product than its predecessor. It's also known as the Evoltis (an odd name for a vehicle that's far from electrified) in other markets, and only one generation has been made. That said, a major facelift in 2023 gave it a fresher look and some feature upgrades.

The 2026 Ascent is largely carried over from the 2025 model. There are seven trims to choose from and just one engine choice. As for pricing, it starts at $40,795 to $51,995.

Subaru

Available on Subaru's official website, it's the entry-level Premium trim gets a special lease deal this month. One can lease this midsize three-row crossover for less than $400 per month, so it's a particularly tempting offer. From now until December 1, 2025, the Ascent Premium (8-seater) is available for $395 per month for 36 months, with $4,394 due at signing.

But for those looking for an even sweeter deal, Subaru is also leasing the 2025 Ascent Premium (7-seater) for even less. Go for this model, and it's $365 for 36 months with $4,364 due at signing. Do note that it's $0.15 for every mile exceeded over 10,000 miles.

Subaru

Regardless of trim, all Ascents are powered by a 2.4-liter boxer engine that's good for 260 hp and 277 lb-ft. Of course, all-wheel drive is standard, as this is a Subaru after all. Eight and seven-seater versions are available, with the latter getting captain's chairs in the second row. It's also the reason why the Ascent range ballooned to seven variants.

Premium models already come pretty well equipped with advanced driver assists as standard, along with an all-weather package, connected services, and a power tailgate. The Limited adds leather, heated seats for the first two rows, driver attention assist, an upgraded infotainment system, and 20-inch alloys. There's also a Limited Bronze Edition that gives the crossover, you guessed it, bronze highlights inside and out.

Opt for the Touring, and you get those captain chairs as standard plus Nappa leather, a panoramic sunroof, and a Harman/Kardon sound system. As for the Onyx Edition, it's another way of saying "Black Edition" with all the shiny bits replaced by gloss black trims.

Subaru

There's a lot to like about the Ascent. Chief among these is the suite of standard safety features, which earns it a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS. Standard all-wheel drive means a little more peace of mind when the going gets slushy, and the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is one of the more capable systems out there. And while it's not what anyone would call fun to drive, it makes up for it by offering a great value proposition. Oh, and it can tow 5,000 lbs too.

James Riswick

Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. The information presented herein is based on manufacturer-provided lease offer information, which is subject to frequent change and may vary based on location, creditworthiness, and other factors. We are not a party to any lease agreements and assume no liability for the terms, conditions, availability, or accuracy of any lease offers mentioned. All terms, including but not limited to pricing, mileage allowances, and residual values, require direct verification with an authorized local OEM dealership. This article does not constitute financial advice or an endorsement of any particular lease or vehicle.

When my husband and I were deciding whether or not to have kids, one of the first discussions we had was whether or not the cars we were currently driving were up to the task of hauling kids. I had a 2011 Subaru Forester, and he drives a 2002 WRX wagon. Both had everything we needed to haul kids safely: a decent trunk, easy-to-find latches and upper tether points, legroom in the backseat, and a respectable safety rating. Subaru's always been known for its safety ratings since the early years, so when I was reviewing the newest, top-shelf WRX model, I had a rough idea of what to expect.

Kristen Brown

Unsurprisingly, the 2025 WRX tS checks those same boxes. In fact, aside from the technology packed in, it's not much different from previous generations. Unlike other model years, though, even with a manual transmission (and it’s manual-only), it comes with the company’s tri-camera EyeSight system, which you used to have to buy an automatic for, adaptive suspension, 271 horsepower, and it’s still very fun to drive–all for $46,100 fully-loaded. Here are five features in the WRX tS that made me give it a thumbs up as a family car.

Reading 12.5 cubic feet of cargo space in the trunk doesn’t seem like a lot. Subaru defines the WRX tS as a “compact sports sedan,” but when you consider other similarly sized sedans, like the Audi A3 or the Hyundai Elantra N, the sizing is on par. When I reviewed it, my two toddlers were out of a stroller, so I didn’t have to fit one in the trunk. If I did, though, it would be an incredibly tight fit. Therefore, if you’re going to try and fit a stroller in one, make sure it’s compact and modular. 

Kristen Brown

If you want to fit a double stroller in the back of one, you’ll be pretty disappointed. While it doesn’t come from the factory with roof rails, it does have mounting brackets that allow owners to have them installed later. So, you can easily make up for that lack of trunk space with a cargo basket or box.

The trunk may not be the biggest, but the interior space for the driver and passengers is great. There was plenty of space for my purse, water bottle, and beverage (always need iced coffee), and even when my daughters’ car seats were installed, there was enough room in the footwells to hold my youngest’s diaper bag, a few toys, and filming gear. So, it obviously doesn’t have the same storage capacities as the Forester, Outback, or Ascent, but it’s better than most would assume. 

The WRX has had electronically adjustable suspension (specifically the dampers) since 2022, and I’ll tell you, it’s a great system. It’s based on which drive mode you select, which includes Normal, Sport, Sport+, Comfort, and Custom. As the name suggests, the WRX’s Custom drive mode lets you choose how stiff or soft the steering is, how sensitive the throttle response is, and how stiff or soft the suspension feels.

Kristen Brown

When I didn’t have my toddlers in the car, I would switch between Normal and Sport, depending on the mood I was in (though, obviously, Sport was more fun). Sport+ felt more like a track day mode, which would make it a blast during an autocross. But when I had my daughters in the car and I could tell they were sleepy, I’d put it into Comfort mode, and everything was so much smoother. My girls fell asleep every time. Since it can switch between a cozy ride and a stiffer, sportier ride on the fly, it could wear both hats very effectively.

My husband and I both enjoy driving a car that makes driving fun, so the WRX was a big hit in our house (and it’s a big reason why we won’t sell our 2002–it fits our toddlers just fine, and is a great reminder that cars can and should be fun to drive). Plus, our daughters loved it, too. The exhaust wasn’t loud enough to keep them awake, but it wasn’t too quiet, either. 

One of the biggest downsides of the 2002 WRX we have is the fact that the turbocharged boxer four-cylinder engine demands premium fuel. In some states, that makes it a pretty expensive car to keep fueled up. But, even with that, it didn’t get as bad of mileage as I thought it would. Around town, I averaged a little over 22 mpg, while on the highway, I was seeing about 26 mpg. If I’d stayed on the highway for longer, I’d wager the highway mileage would be a lot better. Even then, the highest speed limit in Bend, Oregon, is 45 mph unless you start heading to Terrebonne. 

Kristen Brown

I’ve driven some more family-oriented SUVs that got around the same mileage, if they were all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, like the Toyota 4Runner and Land Cruiser. So, it doesn’t get bad mileage. Therefore, it gets a pretty enthusiastic thumbs up from me in that department.

Like I mentioned before, Subaru’s always had a solid reputation for building safe cars. When I was in my early 20s, I used to nanny for a police lieutenant, and part of my job was driving her 11-year-old daughter from San Jose to Concord. When she saw that my husband and I both drove a Subaru, she placed her hand over her chest and said, “Oh, thank God. I respond to a lot of accidents, and Subarus are some of the safest cars you can drive. Trust me.” She went on to tell me she’s never responded to an accident involving a Subaru that the driver and passengers didn’t walk away from.

Kristen Brown

Testimonies from a tenured police officer in Berkeley, California, aside, the ratings speak for themselves. The Subaru WRX tS mainly competes with the 2025 Honda Civic Type R and the Hyundai Elantra N, so we’ll use them as the examples: the Subaru WRX tS is the only one with standard all-wheel drive; the other two are two-wheel drive. This makes it safer in rain, snow, mud, dirt, or sand than its competitors.

The WRX also has a five-star rating with the NHTSA, while the Elantra N is close behind with a score of 4.81. The Honda Civic Type R, on the other hand, hasn’t been completely evaluated by the organization just yet–but it does have a 5-star rating for rollover resistance, and other Civic models earned a 5-star rating, so it’s safe to assume the Type R is just as safe. All three have award-winning safety suites, too. The other two are statistically safe cars, but the data doesn’t lie. All-wheel drive is safer as it helps maintain and regain traction in less-than-ideal driving conditions. You’re less likely to lose traction on tighter turns, too. 

One of the first things I look for in a family car is whether or not the rear seats have separate climate control functions, or at the very least, A/C vents. The WRX doesn’t have either of those, but you can still cool kids off pretty effectively if you know about the floor A/C vents under the front seat and on the back of the center console. Just set the A/C air flow to point towards the cabin and the floor, set it to recirculation mode, and set the fan speed up to a higher one. 

Kristen Brown

I thought this was an interesting way to cool off the rear passengers, but it was fairly effective. Not a lot of people know about those vents, so if you were discounting the WRX due to a lack of A/C vents on the center console, don’t be too quick to chalk it off. If not for cooling them off, there’s also a folding armrest with cupholders in the middle of the bench seat, plenty of USB-C charging ports for phones and tablets, and large windows to help ease and prevent car sickness. They aren’t tinted, though, and if I owned one, I’d do that as soon as I could. Even then, the rear seats scored highly among my husband and two toddler daughters.

Since we already had a 2002 WRX in the stable, I went into this review knowing it wouldn’t be the best family car on the market, but certainly not the worst. It has everything you need to perfectly haul a single infant and comfortably move two toddlers. When the kids aren’t in the car, though, it’s a great vessel for joy. I loved flipping it into Sport mode and feeling the WRX suddenly come to life, when just hours before, it was a smooth-riding grocery and toddler hauler. I’m always a sucker for a car that can live a double life–hence why I adore the Honda Civic Type R, too, as well as all Genesis SUVs, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N or XRT, and the Elantra N. Having kids doesn’t mean you’re doomed to drive a boring car forever.