Toyota and Subaru are set to introduce a new pair of electric compact SUVs in 2026, expanding their collaboration in the growing EV market. The two automakers, which previously co-developed the Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra, aim to attract a broader audience with their upcoming models, according to reports.
Unlike the futuristic, low-slung design of the bZ4X and Solterra, the new SUVs are expected to adopt a more conventional SUV appearance. Sources suggest that the models could resemble the next-generation Toyota RAV4, featuring a sharper front end, roof rails, and a more upright rear design. While the Toyota and Subaru versions will share a common platform and components, each will have distinct front-end styling to preserve brand identity.
The new SUVs will be built on Toyota’s e-TNGA platform, which underpins its electric vehicle lineup. This shared architecture will allow both manufacturers to utilise the same battery packs, electric motors, and other key components, reducing production costs and streamlining development. The approach also enables Toyota and Subaru to allocate resources to other EV projects while maintaining a strong presence in the compact SUV segment.
A major shift from the bZ4X and Solterra is the production location. Instead of Toyota’s Motomachi facility, the new electric SUVs will be manufactured at Subaru’s Yajima plant in Japan. Production is scheduled to begin in January 2026, with market launches expected shortly thereafter.
