This change is a response to the European Union’s new regulations on emissions and driver-assistance technologies.
Subaru has announced that it will stop selling gasoline vehicles in Europe by 2027 as part of its transition to an all-electric lineup. Although Subaru isn’t one of the top-selling brands in Europe, with only 23,000 units sold last year and a mere 0.2 percent market share, models like the Outback and WRX have garnered a loyal fanbase among off-road enthusiasts and car modifiers. The discontinuation of these internal combustion engine models, particularly those featuring Subaru’s distinctive boxer engines, will have a significant impact symbolically.
The first gasoline-powered vehicle to be phased out will be the Outback, which will be discontinued by the end of this year. Following that, models such as the Impreza, Crosstrek, and Forester will also be removed from the lineup by 2027. From 2028 onward, Subaru plans to sell only three all-electric models in Europe: the Solterra, E-Outback (known as Trailseeker in the US), and Uncharted. These electric vehicles are being developed in partnership with Toyota, using technology derived from the bZ4X, bZ4X Touring, and C-HR+ EVs.
The shift to electric vehicles is largely driven by stringent EU regulations regarding carbon dioxide emissions and necessary driver assistance features. The EU has set a requirement for cars manufactured between 2025 and 2034 to emit an average of 93.6 grams of CO2 per kilometer, which represents a 15 percent decrease from levels recorded in 2021. Starting from July 7, 2026, all passenger cars and vans will also need to include Advanced Driver Distraction Warning (ADDW) systems as well as improved emergency braking technology.
Subaru disclosed that it will independently develop its EV technology, separate from Toyota’s efforts, for its upcoming electric vehicles. This new platform will include advancements in battery technology, electric motors, and integrated systems for over-the-air updates. Subaru’s Vice President of Engineering, Takatomo Watamori, emphasized that by creating vehicles in-house and developing their own EV technology, the company can continue to deliver the unique driving experience and reliability that Subaru is known for, even amid these significant industry changes.
