Electrive — 2026-10-20
Automotive Industry
While many manufacturers have gradually distanced themselves from the boxer engine, only Porsche and Subaru have remained steadfast in their commitment to it. With the growing need for electrification, this evolved into the mild-hybrid e-Boxer. However, its days now appear to be numbered, as Subaru will no longer offer combustion-engine vehicles in Europe from 2028. Although this decision applies only to Europe, it marks a pivotal step for the niche manufacturer.
As early as 2026, the Subaru Outback is set to disappear from the market, followed by the Impreza, Crosstrek, and Forester, whose sales are to be discontinued in 2027, as reported by Auto Motor und Sport. The current electric portfolio that will remain consists of the Uncharted in the compact class, the crossover Solterra, and the crossover estate e-Outback, both positioned in the mid-size segment.
Stricter EU fleet emission standards force change of course
Subaru cites the stringent EU CO2 fleet emission standards as the reason for withdrawing combustion-engine vehicles from Europe. Additionally, there are increasingly comprehensive regulations for mandatory assistance and safety systems. These adaptations are extremely costly and apparently not economically viable for the manufacturer.
On the importer side, Emil Frey remains optimistic: “With the launch of our three all-electric models, we have reached a milestone this year,” Swiss magazine Blick quotes his spokesperson as saying. “The pleasingly high demand confirms that our strategy is hitting the nerve of the times.”
Proprietary EV platform from 2029
It is not yet known whether Subaru will introduce additional electric models to the European market by 2028. However, given the reduced offering, this is certainly conceivable or even strategically necessary. A seven-seater flagship model above the e-Outback has already been unveiled for markets such as the US and Australia as the Subaru Getaway. While this model is not currently planned for Europe, a modified version could still fit into the portfolio here.
Furthermore, Subaru is developing its own electric platform to reintroduce independent models to the market and reduce its dependence on Toyota. The new system uses more compact motors from Aisin and lighter batteries from Panasonic, offering a system output of around 375 kW for all-wheel drive. The new architecture is expected to debut in production vehicles in 2029.