Subaru Trailseeker Pricing And First Allocation Sell-Out in New Zealand
Subaru has sold out its entire first allocation of the all-electric Trailseeker in New Zealand before local pricing was even confirmed, according to Auto Trader NZ. In response to heavy customer demand, the distributor added a more affordable entry-level variant to the local lineup, priced at $68,990 for the standard AWD model.
Driven Car Guide reported that the new electric wagon stands 140mm longer overall than the Solterra and features a 50-litre larger boot than the Outback, offering 609 litres of cargo space. Built at Subaru’s Yajima plant in Ota, Gunma, Japan, the Trailseeker measures 25mm shorter than the Outback but boasts a 105mm longer wheelbase.
Two distinct variants undercut Toyota pricing
The local lineup splits into two distinct specifications. The entry-level Trailseeker AWD starts at $68,990, while the flagship AWD Touring sits at $72,490, narrowly undercutting Toyota’s single bZ4X Touring specification priced at $71,990, as detailed by Driven Car Guide. Both variants utilize front and rear 167kW motors that generate a combined 280kW and 268Nm of instant EV-torque on each axle, though Subaru does not quote a combined torque figure.
Auto Trader NZ noted that both models feature a 74.7kWh CATL battery providing a WLTP-rated range of 533km for the entry AWD and 488km for the Touring, which rides on heavier 20-inch alloy wheels compared to the AWD’s 18-inch rims. DC fast charging peaks at 150kW, allowing a 10 to 80 percent charge in about 30 minutes, while AC charging handles up to 22kW.
Performance Claims And Handling Dynamics On Tarmac And Dirt
Driven Car Guide highlighted that Subaru promotes the Trailseeker as its fastest-accelerating production car ever sold in New Zealand, hitting 0-100km/h in 4.4 seconds, while Auto Trader NZ places the figure at about 4.5 seconds. Paul Mallard, general manager of distributor Inchcape New Zealand, stated to Auto Trader NZ that the vehicle marks the true start of the brand’s electric business in the country, describing it as a “true Subaru” with authentic rally-bred feel.
Both variants maintain a ground clearance of 211mm and feature Subaru-developed X-Mode alongside a new Grip Control function that acts as an off-road cruise control for slippery surfaces. Braked towing capacity is rated at 1,500kg, with unbraked towing at 750kg.
Cabin features differ between variants
Inside the cabin, the Trailseeker includes a 14-inch touchscreen infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, and a digital rear-view mirror across the range. The entry AWD features synthetic black leather seat trim, heated front and rear outboard seats, a heated steering wheel, and a hands-free power tailgate. Upgrading to the Touring adds a panoramic glass roof, genuine leather-accented seating with front ventilation, a 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, Advanced Park Assist, and a 1,500-watt Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) power outlet.
Auto Trader NZ reported that neither variant includes a spare wheel as standard, though a dealer-installed spare wheel accessory will be available from January for $1,299 alongside a $1,399 towbar. Subaru covers the vehicle with a 3-year/100,000km vehicle warranty, a 5-year/100,000km EV driveline warranty, and an 8-year/160,000km high-voltage battery warranty, with a $599 service plan extending coverage by an additional three years.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Subaru Trailseeker
How much do the Subaru Trailseeker variants cost in New Zealand?
The entry-level Trailseeker AWD is priced at $68,990, and the flagship AWD Touring costs $72,490, as confirmed by Driven Car Guide and Auto Trader NZ.
What is the driving range of the Trailseeker on a single charge?
According to Auto Trader NZ, the entry AWD delivers a WLTP-rated range of 533km, while the Touring variant offers 488km due to its larger 20-inch wheels.
Does the Trailseeker come with a spare wheel included?
Neither variant includes a spare wheel as standard equipment. Dealers can install a space-saver spare wheel conversion kit from January for $1,299, as reported by Driven Car Guide.
What is the towing capacity of the new electric wagon?
Both the AWD and Touring variants are rated to tow up to 1,500kg braked and 750kg unbraked when fitted with the optional $1,399 towbar available from January.
Worth a look