In 1958, Subaru launched the original 360—a tiny, charming microcar affectionately known as the “ladybug” that helped put Japan on wheels. Nearly seven decades later, that same spirit of simplicity, practicality, and forward‑thinking design has returned, reborn for the electric age. The 2026 Subaru 360 Electric blends nostalgic charm with 21st‑century engineering, creating a model that captures the essence of Subaru’s origins while embracing the brand’s sustainable future.
This isn’t just a retro revival; it’s a modern reinterpretation of how efficiency, design, and emotion can coexist in a rapidly evolving EV landscape.
A Legacy Reborn
The 2026 Subaru 360 Electric pays tribute to the car that started it all. While the original was a tiny gasoline‑powered city car, the new model embodies the same values—lightweight construction, efficiency, and joy of use—reframed through the lens of modern electric mobility.
Subaru’s designers took clear inspiration from the original’s rounded body, petite stance, and minimalistic proportions but modernized every curve through advanced aerodynamics and sleek contemporary detailing. The unmistakable bug‑eyed headlights have been reinterpreted as LED matrix units, giving the 360 Electric an approachable yet futuristic face.
Measuring just under four meters in length, the new 360 is compact but far from basic, offering practicality and technology well beyond its size class.
Retro Design, Modern Aerodynamics
Every element of the design strikes a careful balance between nostalgia and progress. The gently arched roofline and curved fenders echo the original’s friendly persona, while subtle creases, flush glazing, and integrated air channels make it one of Subaru’s most aerodynamic vehicles to date.
A reimagined Subaru wordmark and heritage badge adorn the minimalist front fascia. Unlike many EVs that aim to look aggressively futuristic, the 360 Electric feels timeless—crafted to stand out not through excess, but through distinct simplicity.
Its lightweight aluminum and composite structure reduce weight significantly, improving efficiency and extending range without compromising safety or rigidity. The pastel‑tone color palette, including heritage hues like “Sunshine Pearl” and “Sky Blue Mica,” adds a nostalgic touch that connects directly to Subaru’s history.
A Cabin That Marries Minimalism and Technology
Inside, the Subaru 360 Electric delivers a blend of functional minimalism and modern digital sophistication. The cabin feels airy, dominated by soft fabrics, sustainable materials, and ambient lighting that gives warmth without distraction.
Instead of a conventional instrument cluster, the car integrates a panoramic digital display that spans the dashboard, merging the infotainment and driver information systems into one sleek interface. Subaru’s latest StarLink+ software supports real‑time navigation, voice‑activated controls, and full smartphone connectivity.
Despite its compact size, clever packaging ensures excellent interior space. The battery layout beneath the floor frees up legroom and allows for two adults and small children to ride comfortably. The seats feature breathable recycled fabric upholstery, maintaining Subaru’s commitment to sustainability without sacrificing comfort.
Electric Powertrain: Small Size, Serious Capability
Underneath its nostalgic shell, the 2026 360 Electric is every bit a modern Subaru. The car rides on a modified version of the brand’s modular e‑Subaru Global Platform, shared with other compact EVs in the lineup.
A single electric motor drives the rear wheels—paying homage to the original car’s layout—producing around 120 horsepower and 200 Nm of torque. That might not sound dramatic, but with a curb weight of under 1,200 kg, the 360 Electric delivers eager acceleration perfectly suited for urban environments.
Subaru has engineered the steering and suspension for stability and precision, ensuring that agility defines the driving experience. A 45‑kWh battery pack provides a projected range of up to 320 km (WLTP), while DC fast charging allows an 80% recharge in roughly 25 minutes.
Driving Dynamics: Fun, Frugal, and Authentic
True to Subaru’s heritage, driving enjoyment remains central. The 360 Electric’s low center of gravity—courtesy of its floor‑mounted battery—keeps it planted through turns, while regenerative braking balances smooth deceleration and energy recovery.
Selectable driving modes let drivers alternate between “Urban,” “Eco,” and “Spirited” settings, tuning throttle response and regenerative strength to suit daily needs. Though small, the car feels reassuringly composed even at highway speeds, with balanced damping and excellent noise insulation.
Technology and Safety Upgrades
Don’t let its retro dimensions fool you—the 2026 Subaru 360 Electric is packed with next‑generation technology. The full suite of safety and driver assistance features includes Subaru EyeSight EV+, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Centering, and Collision Avoidance Assist.
A 360‑degree panoramic camera, smartphone‑based access key, and voice‑guided parking aid come standard. Over‑the‑air software updates keep the 360’s onboard systems up to date, ensuring the vehicle evolves alongside its owners.
The car’s compact footprint also makes it ideal for future city regulations focusing on low‑emission zones. Subaru’s engineers have hinted at potential Level 2 autonomy capabilities, positioning the 360 Electric as a forward‑thinking city companion.
Sustainability Beyond Power
Subaru’s mission extends beyond electrification; the 2026 360 Electric serves as a symbol of responsible mobility. Production takes place in a carbon‑neutral facility in Gunma, Japan, powered largely by renewable energy. Recycled metals and bio-based plastics make up a large portion of the vehicle’s construction, emphasizing Subaru’s push toward circular sustainability.
Even the interior trim uses plant-derived dyes and eco-friendly adhesives to minimize environmental impact while maintaining Subaru’s hallmark durability.
Market Position and Outlook
The Subaru 360 Electric redefines what a small EV can represent—a blend of emotion, practicality, and legacy. Positioned below larger models such as the Solterra, it targets eco-conscious urban drivers seeking character, charm, and efficiency in equal measure.
Pricing is expected to start around $30,000 USD (approx. $46,000 AUD) — making it an accessible entry point to Subaru’s growing electric lineup. With Japan and select international markets launching the car in late 2025 ahead of a global rollout in 2026, anticipation is already building among enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Final Verdict: Where Past and Future Collide Gracefully
The 2026 Subaru 360 Electric is proof that nostalgia and innovation aren’t opposites—they can harmonize beautifully. It combines the heartwarming personality of Subaru’s first mass-market car with the zero‑emission technology shaping the brand’s future.
Compact yet confident, classic yet cutting-edge, this EV stands as both a tribute and a transformation. In reviving the 360 nameplate, Subaru hasn’t just recreated history—it has rewritten it for an electrified world that values authenticity, originality, and human‑centered design.