Subaru Solterra
How it looks on the street: Solterra translates to the sun and the earth. Another translation from Spanish to English means “single women,” and yet while we like the idea of a car made with the single woman’s priorities in mind, we think this is not what Subaru intended. While the definition of this vehicle is not obvious, the Subaru Solterra is a straight-forward complacent EV, and most noted as Subaru’s first electric entry to the market introduced for the 2023 model year. Its front end is full of sharp angles that are a departure from a traditional Subaru small SUV, and to some eyes can appear a bit clunky from a distance. It shares a platform with the Toyota bZ4X, which has similar proportions, an effort to accelerate and co-mingle competitive EV programs. For 2024, its second year on the market, it’s tweaked the charging system for cold-weather climates where Subarus shine.
What’s on the inside: The cabin is simple and roomy with tall windows. Design is straight forward without a ton of up-market trimming and centered on a 12.3 inch touch screen. Harmon/Kardon makes an optional stereo system that adds a bit of pizazz. We like the available rain sensing wipers. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. It’s able to run over the air software updates over time. The 2024 model has reshaped the steering wheel for improved visibility.
How it drives: It’s sufficiently capable for mild mucky conditions, and capable of 8.3 inches of ground clearance for rocky trespasses true to its all-wheel drive Subaru spirit. On pavement all-in-all its a smooth operator. It’s well-powered, producing 215 horsepower. Range is about 222 miles – less than much of the competition in this class and not suited for DC-fast charging, so plan on an overnight charging of 11 hours with a 240 volt outlet at home. This system essentially rules out customers who don’t have access to charging at home. It does have regenerative braking capability that can be controlled by the driver with paddles. Of course the range issue and charging time is an individual decision, based on how far one truly needs to go between charges. It’s got a bunch of standard safety features for driver assists, which is a plus. For the 2024 model year that includes a hands-free driving setting, automatic lane-changing system, and an collision detection system that kicks in at intersections — a stand out highlight.
Space for people and things: The Solterra has solid room for people in things, with room to spread out in the interior. The rear trunk has a 27.7 cubic feet of storage space, which shrinks when the Harmon/Kardon system is on board.
What to compare it to: Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, and the Ford Mustang Mach-E.
How much does it cost: It’s available in three trims including the Premium which starts at $46,340, Limited for $49,840, and the top Touring edition which starts at $53,340.