2027 Subaru Getaway: The Electrifying Three-Row SUV That Redefines Subaru Power and Family Adventure
For years, the automotive landscape has seen manufacturers collaborate, sharing platforms and technology to bring compelling new vehicles to market. Subaru, a brand synonymous with rugged capability and a loyal following, has embraced this trend with its latest offering: the 2027 Subaru Getaway. While it shares its foundational architecture with its Toyota counterpart, the Getaway carves out a distinct identity, particularly for those who crave performance alongside practicality. As an industry expert with a decade of experience navigating the evolving automotive sector, I’ve witnessed the increasing demand for capable, family-friendly electric vehicles, and the 2027 Subaru Getaway is poised to meet that demand head-on, offering a potent blend of space, efficiency, and Subaru’s signature driving dynamics.
The buzz surrounding electric SUVs has reached a fever pitch, and Subaru’s entry into the three-row electric segment, the 2027 Subaru Getaway, arrives as a testament to strategic partnerships and brand-specific tuning. While the initial revelation might draw comparisons to the Toyota Highlander, suggesting a mere badge-swap, a deeper dive reveals a vehicle that leverages shared DNA to deliver a distinctly Subaru experience. This isn’t just another electric crossover; it’s a thoughtfully crafted machine designed for those who don’t want to compromise on power or capability, even when choosing an all-electric future. We’re talking about a vehicle that promises to be a game-changer for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike, particularly for those residing in regions like Denver, Colorado, where the call of the mountains is strong and the need for a robust, emission-free vehicle is increasingly apparent.
Beyond the Shared Silhouette: Unpacking the Getaway’s Unique Appeal
The external similarities between the 2027 Subaru Getaway and its Toyota counterpart are undeniable, a predictable outcome of platform sharing. However, where Subaru truly shines is in its ability to imbue shared designs with a unique brand character. The Getaway’s front fascia distinguishes itself with a signature Subaru EV element: a set of six-LED accent lights that not only provide illumination but also serve as a visual indicator of the vehicle’s charging status when plugged in. This thoughtful touch adds a layer of user-friendliness and aesthetic appeal. At the rear, the Getaway diverges with a split taillight design featuring the prominent “Subaru” wordmark, subtly differentiating it from the continuous light bar found on its Toyota sibling. Rectangular reversing lights, positioned lower on the bumper, further enhance its unique visual signature.
Subaru’s commitment to offering distinct choices extends to its color palette. The Getaway will be available in unique green and purple hues, catering to buyers seeking a more expressive aesthetic. While wheel options top out at 20 inches, a step down from the Highlander’s 22-inch offerings, Subaru has focused on functionality. The roof rails on the Getaway boast a higher load rating, a deliberate nod to the adventurous spirit of Subaru owners, ensuring they can confidently transport their gear for weekend getaways and outdoor pursuits. This attention to detail, even in seemingly minor aspects, underscores Subaru’s understanding of its core customer base.
An Interior Designed for Comfort and Versatility
Step inside the 2027 Subaru Getaway, and you’ll find an interior that is both familiar and refined, a sophisticated evolution of modern EV cabin design. The layout mirrors that of the Toyota, offering flexible seating configurations for six or seven occupants, depending on whether you opt for the captain’s chairs in the second row. This adaptability makes the Getaway an exceptionally versatile family vehicle, capable of accommodating diverse needs, from daily commutes to road trips. The overall aesthetic is one of understated elegance, moving away from stark minimalism towards a more inviting and premium feel.
At the heart of the infotainment system lies a commanding 14.0-inch touchscreen, powered by a user interface developed by Toyota. Complementing this is a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display, larger than anything seen in Subaru’s previous EV offerings, providing a wealth of information at a glance. Thoughtful amenities abound, including dual wireless charging pads strategically placed on the center console, air vents, and USB ports that cater to all three rows, ensuring that every passenger stays connected and comfortable.
Where the 2027 Subaru Getaway truly sets itself apart is in its interior materials and features. While the Highlander exclusively utilizes synthetic upholstery, the Getaway offers the option of premium leather, elevating the sense of luxury. Furthermore, a standout feature is the standard power-folding third-row seats, a convenience that is an optional upgrade on the Highlander. This commitment to enhancing passenger comfort and ease of use further solidifies the Getaway’s position as a premium family EV. As expected from Subaru, the Getaway is replete with an extensive suite of advanced driver-assistance and active safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane change assist, and adaptive cruise control, providing peace of mind for all occupants.
The Power Proposition: A New Benchmark for Subaru EVs
For enthusiasts who have been clamoring for the return of performance-oriented models like the WRX STI, the 2027 Subaru Getaway offers a compelling glimpse into Subaru’s future direction, particularly in the realm of electric power. While the Ascent has long been Subaru’s go-to for a gasoline-powered three-row SUV, the Getaway represents a significant leap forward in performance. Dimensionally, it’s slightly longer than the Ascent but boasts a considerably longer wheelbase, contributing to a more stable and composed ride. While marginally wider, it’s also shorter in height, giving it a more athletic stance.
Ground clearance stands at a respectable 8.3 inches, a figure that Subaru proudly touts as best-in-class among three-row EVs, with the caveat that the Highlander likely matches this capability. This slight reduction from the Ascent’s 8.7 inches is a minor trade-off for the aerodynamic benefits and lower center of gravity inherent in an EV design. Crucially, cargo capacity in the Getaway is designed to exceed that of the Ascent, regardless of seat configuration, ensuring ample space for all your gear, whether it’s for a weekend camping trip to Rocky Mountain National Park or a cross-country adventure.
The headline feature for the 2027 Subaru Getaway is undoubtedly its power. Subaru is equipping every Getaway with a potent 420-horsepower dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) powertrain as standard. This is a significant upgrade over the Highlander’s offerings, which include a 221-hp single-motor front-wheel-drive option and an optional 338-hp dual-motor AWD system. Subaru’s commitment to AWD is deeply ingrained in its brand identity, and the Getaway’s powertrain is engineered to deliver the balanced, confident AWD feel that Subaru customers expect. This enhanced power should translate to a blistering 0–60 mph time of under 5.0 seconds, potentially leaving the quickest Highlander half a second behind. Subaru has confirmed that any future powertrain options will also be AWD, with the expectation of eventually incorporating the Highlander’s 338-hp system into the lineup. This focus on performance clearly aims to satisfy those who value dynamic driving characteristics alongside family practicality.
Range, Charging, and the Open Road Ahead
The 2027 Subaru Getaway is launching with a substantial 95.8-kWh battery pack, which is an optional upgrade for the Highlander. Subaru has indicated that the Getaway will also eventually be offered with the Highlander’s standard 77.0-kWh battery, providing buyers with a choice based on their range requirements and budget. Subaru estimates the driving range for the Getaway to be slightly over 300 miles on a full charge. While this is a respectable figure, the increased power output naturally means a slight reduction compared to the Highlander’s projected 320 miles.
In a move that underscores the industry’s growing adoption of standardized charging protocols, the 2027 Subaru Getaway will feature a built-in NACS port, enabling it to tap into the extensive Tesla Supercharger network. However, a point of refinement for Subaru’s EV charging technology lies in its maximum charging rate, which remains at 150 kW. While adequate for 2027, this figure is considered moderate compared to some competitors offering faster charging speeds. Under ideal conditions, the Getaway can achieve an 80% charge in approximately 30 minutes, a crucial convenience for those undertaking longer journeys. The availability of fast charging infrastructure in areas like Austin, Texas, where road trips are common, will be a key factor in the real-world usability of this feature.
Pricing and Positioning: Value in the Electric SUV Market
The 2027 Subaru Getaway is anticipated to enter the market with a starting price in the low $60,000 range. This positions it slightly above the Toyota Highlander, a premium justified by its superior power output and larger standard battery. The top-tier Getaway models, as experienced in initial viewings, hint at a commensurate level of luxury and technology. Features such as an electrochromic glass roof, heated and ventilated first and second-row seats, heated third-row seats, and the aforementioned tasteful green leather upholstery contribute to a truly premium experience.
The primary challenge facing the 2027 Subaru Getaway may be its inherent similarity to the Toyota Highlander, a brand with a longer-standing legacy in the three-row crossover segment. Clearer differentiation in future EV iterations between Subaru and Toyota could offer consumers even more distinct choices. However, the Getaway’s compelling combination of power, space, and Subaru’s inherent brand appeal – particularly its reputation for capability and safety – provides a strong argument for its appeal. The Highlander, while a pioneer and a household name, might not resonate with buyers seeking the spirited performance and AWD prowess that the 2027 Subaru Getaway promises.
On paper, the 2027 Subaru Getaway presents a formidable package for families and adventurers looking for a seven-seat electric vehicle. It offers the power to exhilarate, the space to accommodate, and the range to explore. As the automotive industry continues its rapid transition to electrification, vehicles like the 2027 Subaru Getaway are crucial in demonstrating that electric mobility doesn’t necessitate a compromise on performance or versatility. We eagerly await the opportunity to experience firsthand how the Getaway translates its impressive specifications into a real-world driving experience when it goes on sale in late 2026.
If you’re ready to explore the future of family-friendly electric vehicles and experience the power and capability of the 2027 Subaru Getaway, we encourage you to connect with your local Subaru dealer today to learn more about pre-ordering options and to stay informed about upcoming test drive opportunities.
