Subaru and Toyota are strengthening their electric vehicle (EV) partnership with the planned development of two new all-electric compact SUVs slated for release in 2026. This strategic collaboration is designed to accelerate the automakers’ expansion into the EV market.
The new models will complement the existing Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra. To reduce research and development expenses, the SUVs will be built on the e-TNGA platform, which already underpins the bZ4X and Solterra. This platform will allow the manufacturers to share key components such as batteries and electric motors while retaining distinct brand designs.
The Toyota EPU concept
Toyota recently showcased three new EV concepts scheduled for release by 2026. Among them, two are anticipated to be production versions of the EPU pickup and the Land Cruiser SE concepts, initially unveiled in 2023. The third model could be the compact SUV developed in conjunction with Subaru.
The new SUVs are expected feature designs that adopt a more traditional aesthetic compared to the bZ4X and Solterra, with a profile reminiscent of the future electric Toyota RAV4: a sharp front end, roof rails, and a more upright rear.
2024 Subaru Solterra
While sharing most of their components, Toyota and Subaru plan to give each model its unique visual signature, particularly in the grille and headlights design.
According to reports from Best Car, the new electric SUVs will be sold in Japan, Europe, and North America. Unlike the bZ4X and Solterra, which are assembled at Toyota’s Motomachi plant, production will be handled by Subaru at its Yajima plant in Japan, with manufacturing scheduled to begin in January 2026.
For Subaru, the continued partnership will enable an accelerated expansion of its EV offerings, as the Solterra is currently the only electric model in its lineup. At the same time, Toyota, which has an established presence in the global electric market with the bZ4X, new CH-R+, and Urban Cruiser, intends to strengthen its position in the compact SUV segment.
In addition to these two EVs being developed together, Subaru has also announced the launch of its first internally developed electric vehicle for 2028. The brand aims to have electric vehicles represent 50 percent of its global sales by 2030.
With an expanded EV offering and the backing of Toyota, Subaru aims to bolster its stance in a rapidly evolving market, while also providing models that meet drivers’ expectations in terms of range, performance, and design.
This partnership between Toyota and Subaru continues to yield results with the new all-electric compact SUVs planned for 2026. The strategic alliance enables the two manufacturers to offer electric models while streamlining development costs. With production handled by Subaru in Japan and a global marketing strategy, these new models are positioned to become competitive alternatives in the electric vehicle market.
