Subaru has revealed the new Uncharted SUV as its third electric car, joining the new-look Solterra crossover and the high-riding E-Outback estate.
Based on strategic partner Toyota's new C-HR+ (just as the Solterra is based on the bZ4X), the Uncharted will launch in the UK early next year with dimensions and specifications that line it up as a rival to the Ford Capri, Cupra Tavascan and Kia EV6.
The Uncharted will look to claim an edge over its rivals for rugged utility, however, with Subaru claiming the new model delivers the brand's "signature ruggedness allied with dynamic agility".
Compared to the Subaru Crosstrek, the new Uncharted is 35mm longer, 70mm wider, and 25mm taller than its rangemate. The wheelbase is also 80mm longer than the Crosstek but some 100mm shorter than the Solterra to solidify its position as the compact offering in the line-up.
While its silhouette is identical to the C-HR+, the Uncharted bolsters its off-road credentials with a raised ride height (to 210mm), chunky black body cladding and functional roof rails.
Some inspiration is taken from the revised Solterra and new E-Outback, with the blanked-off grille flanked by the new six-element LED daytime running lights. Black badges have also been added to align with the Uncharted’s “tough compact character”.
Based on the e-Subaru Global Platform, the Uncharted is offered with a choice of two batteries, with front- and four-wheel-drive powertrains available.
This mirrors the C-HR+, but Subaru is clear that the Uncharted has a different suspension and steering tune to give it a “sporty and nimble character”. It also gets the same suite of off-road driving modes as the Forester.
The entry-level model is fitted with a 165bhp front-mounted electric motor and a 57.7kWh battery pack giving up to 276 miles of range.
Models fitted with the larger 77kWh battery can be had in both two- and four-wheel-drive form. The single-motor, front-wheel drive model makes 221bhp and can travel up to 363 miles on a charge. The twin-motor, meanwhile, offers up to 292 miles of range, but makes 338bhp, can sprint from 0-62mph in 5.0sec and tow up to 1500kg.
All batteries can accept a peak charging speed of 150kW, with a 10-80% boost achieved in around 30 minutes.
The Uncharted's interior is carried over from the C-HR+, featuring a squared-off steering wheel with plenty of buttons down each side. There’s a 7.0in driver display and a new 14in infotainment touchscreen, plus another panel of chunky physical switches and controls in the centre console.
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looks the first vaguely interesting and potentially exciting Subaru in years
I don't hate that. 'Uncharted' is a dreadful name for a car, though.