In 2026, two exciting electric SUVs are set to hit the streets, each presenting a unique take on the electric vehicle (EV) experience. The Subaru Trailseeker embraces its rugged, trail-ready heritage, while the Toyota C-HR Electric offers a sophisticated, stylish urban design. If you're in Great Falls, navigating Montana's brutal winters and diverse terrain, your choice will depend on your requirements and preferences. In this Subaru and Toyota electric car comparison, our team at Great Falls Subaru explores these two SUVs to help you select the one that fits your Montana lifestyle.
Trim Levels, Cost, and Warranty
The Toyota C-HR Electric is available in two trim levels: the SE and XSE. MSRPs for this SUV are expected to cost between $35,000 and $38,000, depending on the model you choose. Toyota provides a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty, five-year/60,000-mile powertrain coverage, and eight-year/100,000-mile electric component protection. ToyotaCare covers maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles, as well as three years of roadside assistance.
The Trailseeker offers three trims: the Premium, Limited, and Touring, with estimated starting prices ranging from $45,000 to $52,000. We expect Subaru to offer its standard EV warranties on the 2026 Trailseeker, which include three-year/36,000-mile basic, five-year/60,000-mile powertrain, and eight-year/100,000-mile electric component coverage — on par with the Toyota model. Check back for details as the models arrive.
Design and Comfort Features
These SUVs offer different design styles. Subaru's Trailseeker showcases the brand's adventurous spirit with bulkier proportions and an aggressive stance. Toyota's C-HR Electric takes an opposite approach, prioritizing aerodynamic efficiency and urban sophistication.
For drivers in Great Falls who spend weekends on the trails, the Trailseeker's rugged design is a perfect match for Montana's unpredictable conditions. If you regularly commute in the city, you'll appreciate the C-HR's refined appearance and agility in urban streets and parking garages.
Exterior Styling and Ground Clearance
The Trailseeker features Subaru's six-star logo, split daytime running lights, 18- and 20-inch wheels, and roof rails. It also offers ground clearance of 8.3 inches, which is perfect for the rough Montana terrain. The Toyota C-HR Electric SUV measures 177.9 inches long, 73.6 inches wide, and 63.8 inches tall. It features 18-inch wheels, which can be upgraded to 20 inches on the XSE trim. Its coupe-like hammerhead styling prioritizes aerodynamics.
Interior Space, Seating, and Cargo Capacity
The Trailseeker features a flat cargo floor with 25 cubic feet of storage space, as well as generous rear passenger legroom, reclining seats, water-repellent StarTex upholstery, and orange accents. The C-HR Electric offers 25.4 cubic feet of cargo room despite its compact size. It also offers premium materials, customizable lighting, and soft-touch surfaces.
Electric Powertrain and Performance
Both SUVs are equipped with dual-motor all-wheel drive configurations. The Trailseeker's motors are calibrated for instant torque delivery, which is perfect for navigating snowy intersections or climbing steep mountain roads around Great Falls. Toyota's approach favors smooth, efficient power delivery, making it easier on the battery. These differences are crucial for negotiating Montana's diverse terrain. The Trailseeker's 375-horsepower setup excels when you need raw capability, while the C-HR's 338 horsepower offers both power and efficiency without sacrificing daily drivability.
Battery Range, Cold Weather, and Driving Dynamics
The Trailseeker boasts a 260-mile range, with battery preconditioning particularly useful in cold weather. Front-wheel-drive variants can achieve over 300 miles, while the all-wheel-drive Sport and GT models reach 290 miles. The C-HR Electric maximizes the same battery for a range of 290 miles. Its EPA ratings show 125 MPGe in the city, 105 MPGe on the highway, and 115 MPGe combined.
Off-Road Capabilities
The Trailseeker's excellent ground clearance, X-MODE with Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud settings, grip control, and downhill assist are ideal for your off-road adventures. It also offers a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, which is more than enough for boats or campers. The C-HR Electric is perfect for paved roads with its 338-horsepower all-wheel drive, but it's not designed for rough terrain.
Charging and Infrastructure
Both SUVs are equipped with North America Charging Standard ports, which provide immediate access to Tesla's extensive Supercharger network. Although Great Falls is strategically located close to major highways, longer trips will require careful planning. Both vehicles reach charging speeds of up to 150 kW and can charge from 10% to 80% in roughly 30 minutes in ideal conditions. Winter charging poses challenges since Montana's subzero temperatures can put a strain on the battery.
Technology and Safety Systems
Both the Subaru Trailseeker and Toyota C-HR feature a 14-inch touch screen with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless phone charging. The Trailseeker adds physical temperature dials, making it easier to adjust the settings while wearing winter gloves.
The C-HR's audio multimedia system includes Wi-Fi Connect for up to five devices, with sound systems ranging from a standard six-speaker to an available nine-speaker JBL system.
The Trailseeker offers the EyeSight suite of driver-assistance technologies, which utilizes cameras and radar for essential safety features such as collision avoidance, cross-traffic alerts, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warnings, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. All trims include heated mirrors and seats, wiper deicers, and driver attention monitoring.
The C-HR Electric features Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which includes precollision braking with pedestrian detection, full-range adaptive cruise control, lane departure alerts with steering assist, road sign recognition, automatic high beams, and proactive driving aids. The XSE adds traffic jam and lane change assist.
Discover Your Perfect SUV at Great Falls Subaru
If you're in Great Falls, Montana, we invite you to visit us to browse our extensive inventory of family-friendly SUVs. Our knowledgeable team will help you explore your financing options and answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to schedule a test-drive to find the ideal vehicle for your daily commutes and weekend adventures.
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