Subaru Unveils New Three-Row Getaway SUV
Subaru has introduced the three-row Getaway SUV overseas, marking another electric vehicle (EV) developed in collaboration with Toyota. This new model is set to be available in the US by late 2026. The Getaway was revealed at the 2026 New York motor show and is Subaru’s fourth EV. It shares a close relationship with the new Toyota Highlander, offering 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 development follows Subaru’s previous electric SUVs, including the Solterra, Trailseeker, and Uncharted, and is part of the brand’s commitment to launching eight EVs globally by 2028. However, it remains uncertain whether the Getaway will be brought to Australia. Subaru Australia did not respond to requests for comment at the time of publishing, although Toyota’s previous confirmation that the Highlander EV won’t be sold in Australia may influence Subaru’s decision.
Key Features and Specifications
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 join the lineup in 2027. The vehicle can fast-charge at up to 150kW, allowing for a 10-80 per cent charge in 30 minutes. Notably, the six-element daytime running lights on the front of the Getaway serve as a convenient indicator of charging status when connected to a charger.
With Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive dual-motor configuration, the Getaway delivers approximately 313kW of power, enabling a 0-60mph time of “less than five seconds.” Subaru claims this makes it the most powerful production Subaru, surpassing the 280kW Trailseeker and the 221kW final-generation production WRX STI.
Interior and Technology
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 are also included. Neither Toyota nor Subaru have confirmed the weight of the Highlander/Getaway, but 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.
The Getaway offers a cargo capacity of 45.6 cubic feet (1291 litres) with the third row folded flat. Like the Highlander, it will be available with seven or six seats, depending on the variant. All seats offer heating, while the first and second rows also offer ventilation – the latter likely only with the second-row captain’s chairs fitted.
Infotainment and Exterior Design
Up front is a 14.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a 12.3-inch digital instrument display. Depending on the trim level, other standard features include 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. Flush door handles are standard for “added aerodynamic efficiency.”
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 also include 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 priced 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, 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.
Potential Market and Future
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 that 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 is 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.
