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The 2023 Subaru Solterra, the brand's first all-electric vehicle, is a competitively equipped compact SUV developed jointly with Toyota, but its estimated 220-mile driving range may lag behind key rivals like the Volkswagen ID.4 and Ford Mustang Mach-E.
Unveiled at the 2021 Los Angeles Auto Show, the Solterra marks a significant milestone for Subaru, entering the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) market. This collaborative effort with Toyota, similar to the partnership that produced the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 sports cars, results in a vehicle that shares its core platform, styling, and technology with the Toyota bZ4X. This review assesses the Solterra's strengths and potential drawbacks to help you determine if it's the right electric SUV for your needs.
The Solterra's design is modern and attractive, though it shares a strong familial resemblance with its Toyota counterpart. Sizing up similarly to the popular Subaru Forester, it sits at the larger end of the compact SUV category. Key distinguishing features from the bZ4X include the prominent Subaru badge and grille, along with unique 18- or 20-inch wheel designs.
Inside, the cabin is well-laid-out with quality materials. A standout feature is the high-mounted instrument cluster, positioned so the driver looks over the top of the steering wheel rather than through it, functioning almost like a standard heads-up display (HUD) that projects key driving information onto the windshield. The centerpiece is a large 12.3-inch multimedia screen running a Subaru-specific version of Toyota’s new, cloud-based infotainment system. Passenger space is a strong point, with generous headroom and legroom in the second row. Unlike the potential yoke-style steering wheel Toyota may offer, the Solterra features a conventional steering wheel.
The Solterra leverages Subaru's heritage by offering standard all-wheel drive (AWD), powered by two electric motors—one on each axle. This system utilizes Subaru's X-Mode software for enhanced traction control in various conditions. The energy source is a 71.4-kilowatt-hour (kWh) battery pack mounted under the floor.
However, the most significant figure for many EV shoppers is the driving range, which indicates how far the vehicle can travel on a full battery charge. Subaru estimates the Solterra will achieve approximately 220 miles on a full charge. This places it behind competitors like the Volkswagen ID.4 (up to 275 miles), Tesla Model Y (up to 330 miles), and Ford Mustang Mach-E (up to 310 miles). Critical data, such as DC fast-charging speed (how quickly the battery can be replenished at public charging stations), had not been officially released at the time of its debut.
While official pricing was initially pending, early expectations placed the Solterra's starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) around $40,000. This positions it as a mid-range option in the electric compact SUV segment.
In terms of standard equipment, the Solterra is well-appointed. Key features include the standard AWD, the large multimedia screen, and the unique instrument cluster design. It's important to note that the Toyota bZ4X was also planned to offer a front-wheel-drive variant, which typically provides a longer range due to reduced mechanical drag, but would not have Subaru's signature AWD as standard.
Based on our assessment experience, the Solterra's value proposition hinges heavily on the priority a buyer places on Subaru's AWD system versus maximizing driving range.
From a practicality standpoint, the Solterra presents a mix of pros and cons. The lack of a "frunk" (front trunk), a storage compartment where a gasoline engine would normally be, is a notable omission, reducing cargo space compared to some rivals. The interior cabin space, however, is a clear advantage for families.
The collaboration with Toyota is generally a positive for reliability and parts availability, leveraging the strengths of both automakers. The real-world usability will depend greatly on the final DC fast-charging capability, which is crucial for longer trips.
The 2023 Subaru Solterra is a competent and well-equipped entry into the electric SUV market, offering the security of standard all-wheel drive and a modern, spacious interior. Its primary challenge is its estimated 220-mile driving range, which is less than what many competitors offer. Your decision will likely come down to your specific needs:
As the EV landscape evolves, the Solterra represents a solid, if not class-leading, first step for Subaru.
