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The Solterra EV hits the highlands
The Subaru Solterra EV is what could essentially called the Toyubaru. That’s because it’s the collaboration between Subaru and Toyota. It’s also very similar to Toyota’s bZ4X EV. If you are a Subaru fan, could it be the right electric vehicle for you? Hop in with Napleton News to we find out.
Essentially twin sons from different mothers, the Solterra EV is the result of a technology/product collaboration between Subaru and Toyota. The result is the Solterra EV for Subaru and the bZ4X EV matcher for Toyota. The Subaru gets its power from a pair of electric motors, with one on each axle. This powertrain makes up Subaru’s Symmetrical all-wheel drive. The entire package delivers 215 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque.
It features hands-free driving at speeds up to 25 mph.
The Lithium-Ion batteries are located under the floor of the Solterra. With a 240-volt power connection, buyers can expect a full charge in around nine hours. A DC Fast Charger can go from 10% to 80% in a bit more than a half-hour. Considering the condition and power output of public fast chargers, your charge times may vary.
Mileage-wise the EPA says the range of the Subaru Solterra EV is around 222 miles.
Angular, sharp, creased, cladded. All of those descriptives fit the bill here. In fact, this Subaru is unlike any other Subaru we have seen in a long time. There’s a pronounced anti-grille that is like that found on the Ford Mustang Mach-E. Black cladding flows over the front fenders while broad shoulders flank the rear.
Also at the rear is a split spoiler that separates the airflow over the rear glass. At the top are roof rails strong enough to support a tent.
The dashboard of the Solterra differs slightly from most others on the road today. The driver’s side leans left, while the center console leans right. Our squared-off steering wheel made viewing the controls and gauges easier than before. The large infotainment screen is somewhat functional but could be made more so had it included dials and knobs. Perhaps a control dial like those found in the Mazda CX50 would be a better example of how to control hard to reach items.
Seating is comfortable in both the first and second rows, with plenty of legroom for occupants of both. Behind the second row is almost 27.7 cubic feet. Fold that row down and the space grows to 63.5 cubic feet.
Push the starter button and the power seat swings you into position. Push down on the gear selector dial and flip left for reverse. Once you’re out of the drive, flip right into drive and you’re off. This totally silent crossover quietly moves down the street in a manner that is more Lexus-like than it is Subaru-ish. Thanks to the Toyota technology onboard, this vehicle is better than it has a right to be.
Acceleration is excellent in most every situation. That includes those times you need to zoom past slower vehicles on the highway. With no time to waste, step on the excitement pedal for all the power you need. Paddle shift levers help you determine how much regenerative braking you want to feel. But a push of the button on the center console enables one-pedal-driving for a better driving experience.
So where’s the beef with the Subaru Solterra? In its range. We went several mornings just having the 120-volt charger plugged in the normal way. After unplugging and starting up, we notice the charge meter showing a range of 222 miles on a 100% charged battery.
As good as the Subaru is in every other aspect, it falls short. With competitors routinely hitting the 300-mile range these days, we think 222 miles is just too low.
| Engine Type | Electric Power Generator |
| Horsepower | 215 hp |
| Torque | 249 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 1-speed automatic |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Combined/City/Hwy) | 104/114/94 MPGe |
| Suspension F/R | MacPherson Strut / Double Wishbone |
| Turning Circle | 36.7 ft. |
| Also Available | Various trim levels. |
| Specs | |
| Warranty | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Drivetrain Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| NHTSA Safety Rating | 5 stars/td> |
| Max Seating Capacity | 5 passengers |
| Wheelbase | 112.2 inches |
| Overall Length | 184.6 inches |
| Width | 73.2 inches |
| Height | 65.1 inches |
| Cargo Room (Behind 1st, 2nd row) | 63.5/23.8 Cubic Feet |
| Headroom, Front | 38.8 inches |
| Headroom, 2nd | 38.0 inches |
| Legroom, 1st | 42.1 inches |
| Legroom, 2nd | 35.3 inches |
| Shoulder room, 1st row | 57.8 inches |
| Shoulder room, 2nd row | 56.0 inches |
This post was published on March 4, 2025
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