Introduction to the Subaru Getaway
Subaru has recently introduced the three-row Getaway SUV overseas, marking another significant step in its collaboration with Toyota. This electric vehicle (EV) is set to be available in the US by late 2026 and is expected to be a twin to the new Toyota Highlander. The Getaway offers up to seven seats, a driving range of “more than 300 miles” (482km), and a dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrain that produces 313kW of power.
This model follows Subaru’s Solterra, Trailseeker, and Uncharted electric SUVs and is part of the brand’s commitment to offering eight EVs globally by 2028. However, it remains uncertain whether the Getaway will be brought to Australia, as Subaru Australia has not yet responded to requests for comment.
Key Features of the Getaway
At launch, the Getaway will be powered by a “high-capacity, long-range” 95.8kWh lithium-ion battery, providing a claimed driving range of roughly 482km. A standard-range model with a 77.0kWh lithium-ion battery will be added to the lineup in 2027. The vehicle can fast-charge at up to 150kW, allowing a 10-80 per cent charge time of 30 minutes. Notably, the six-element daytime running lights on the front of the Getaway “conveniently indicate charging status when connected to a charger”.
With Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive dual-motor configuration, the Getaway will produce around 313kW of power, achieving a 0-60mph time of “less than five seconds”. This makes it the most powerful production Subaru, surpassing the 280kW Trailseeker and eclipsing the 221kW final-generation production WRX STI.
Interior and Exterior Design
Fitted as standard is Subaru’s X-Mode dual-mode system, which includes Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud off-road drive modes. Grip Control and Downhill Assist Control will also be equipped. Neither Toyota nor Subaru have confirmed the weight of the Highlander/Getaway, though the Getaway is claimed to tow 3500 pounds (1587 kg).
Toyota has confirmed the exterior dimensions of the Highlander, measuring 5050mm in length, 1989mm in width, and 1709mm in height, with a 3050mm wheelbase. The Getaway should be practically identical, though its 210mm ride height may make it slightly taller. These dimensions are slightly larger than the three-row Kia EV9, providing a cargo capacity of 45.6 cubic feet (1291 litres) in the Getaway with the third row folded flat.
Technology and Safety Features
The Getaway comes with a 14.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a 12.3-inch digital instrument display. Depending on the trim level, other standard kit includes a panoramic sunroof and a heated steering wheel. There are also two wireless phone chargers on the centre console, four USB-C ports for rear-seat passengers, and customisable interior ambient lighting.
Outside, the Getaway features an illuminated Subaru logo on the smooth, body-coloured front ‘grille’, as well as dynamic daytime running lights and dedicated washers for the headlights. On the back is a “three-dimensional illuminated SUBARU logo” and a “distinctive lighting signature”. Ladder-type roof rails are standard on “most” trim levels, while 19- and 20-inch alloy wheels are available depending on the variant.
Safety and Pricing
Standard across the Getaway range is a full suite of safety tech, including blind-spot monitoring, emergency stop assist, lane-change assist, and adaptive cruise control. Certain variants get front cross-traffic alert, intelligent park assist, and a digital rear-view mirror.
Pricing will be announced closer to the model’s launch, though it is expected to be above the Trailseeker, Subaru’s current largest EV. In the US, the Trailseeker starts at $39,995 (~A$58,000). A comparable rival is the Kia EV9, which starts at $54,900 (~A$79,600) in the US. That’s well below the Australian EV9’s starting price of $97,000 before on-roads, or $106,500 before on-roads for an all-wheel drive model.
Future Outlook
It is unclear whether the Getaway will replace Subaru’s current three-row SUV, the US-built Ascent, once it launches in the US. Given the Getaway will also be built in the US, and that the Toyota Highlander EV is set to replace America’s equivalent of the Kluger, it’s possible the Ascent’s days are numbered.
If Subaru does bring the Getaway to Australia, it won’t be the first time we’ve seen that name on a car here. Most recently was the Toyota Tarago Getaway II people mover, which went off-sale locally in 2001.
