2024 Subaru Solterra Is a Careful Debut for EVs

Although the Solterra has a capable all-wheel-drive system as standard and is comfortable, its performance and range are not up to par with other models.

Global behemoths such as General Motors and the Volkswagen Group are dipping their toes tentatively into the murky waters of the electric vehicle market, while smaller, independent Subaru is cautiously standing on the edge of the pool. According to reports, Subaru is working on a number of new electric vehicles that should be released before the end of the decade. In the interim, the Japanese automaker is purportedly testing the market with the 2023-introduced Solterra. Co-developed with Toyota, which holds a 20 percent share in Subaru, and the nearly identical bZ4X, the Solterra has better all-terrain capabilities than most of its competitors and is comfortable for daily use, but its average performance and limited range lag behind the competition for electric compact SUVs.

Subaru only offers three trim levels for the Solterra, all of which have the identical mechanicals. Starting at $53,340, this Touring variant is the top of the range and comes fully equipped. The $890 add-on Harbor Mist Gray Pearl paint and Galactic Black roof, all-weather floor liners for $187, and a $141 cargo tray were the only options available on the model we examined.

Acceleration Test Results

Two permanent-magnet synchronous motors, one installed on each axle, providing a combined 215 horsepower and 249 pound-feet of torque, provide the drive. Although the Solterra's acceleration isn't as strong as that of many EVs, it's nevertheless fast enough for daily driving, reaching 30 mph in 2.1 seconds and 60 mph in 6.1 seconds.

Changes in drive modes have a minor impact on accelerator response; however, the Solterra seems less snappy in Power mode and responds more slowly to large accelerator inputs. The 30-to-50-mph test takes 2.5 seconds, and the 50-to-70-mph test takes 3.7 seconds, during which this pause rears its head during passing maneuvers. The majority of its all-wheel-drive competitors outperform the Solterra in almost every performance parameter.

Range and Recharging Test Results

The range of the Solterra's battery pack is disappointing, with a C/D-estimated net capacity of only 65.4 kilowatt-hours. Because the base Premium grade has smaller 18-inch wheels (as opposed to the Touring's 20-inch ones), the EPA predicts that the Touring model can go 222 miles on a single charge. However, in our highway range test, which was carried out at a constant 75 mph, the Solterra could only manage 200 miles. This puts the Solterra 40 miles behind the all-wheel-drive Volkswagen ID.4 and 60 miles behind the all-wheel-drive Chevrolet Equinox EV. That's only ten miles behind the dual-motor Hyundai Ioniq 5.

The slow charging speeds of the Solterra are another issue. According to Subaru, a 100-kW DC fast-charger can charge the Solterra from 10 to 80 percent capacity in just 35 minutes. Compared to the 2023 model, which required 56 minutes to accomplish the identical task, this is an improvement. During the fast-charging test conducted by Car and Driver, the Solterra achieved a maximum output of 99 kW and an average of just 67 kW, requiring 48 minutes to reach 90 percent charge.

Subaru added paddles to the steering wheel to control the regenerative braking system for 2024. While this is a nice feature, even at its highest setting, the regeneration is not very powerful. The closest thing to a one-pedal mode is the S-Pedal, however it doesn't stop the SUV entirely. Even with the Hold function engaged, the Solterra moves slowly until you apply full brake pressure, at which point it holds the vehicle without requiring any additional brake force.

In contrast to its Toyota brother, the Solterra only has all-wheel drive and uses Subaru's X-Mode to distribute power for optimal off-road traction. In addition, the Solterra features Grip Control, which functions as a low-speed cruise control when navigating uneven terrain, and hill-descent control. In our previous trail driving experience, we discovered that the Solterra could handle most mild off-roading.

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Driving the Solterra

Around town, the Solterra's ride is compliant, and any bumps do sneak through the suspension are muffled. Although it's not nearly as comfortable as a premium automobile, the combination of the supportive and supple seats provides for a soothing ride. Nevertheless, the Solterra automatically turns down the music and emits a bothersome beep as it reverses—much like the ding you may hear if your seatbelt is loose. There is no back windshield wiper on the Solterra either.

The Solterra's interior is very similar to that of the bZ4X. The Touring's 12.3-inch touchscreen has a clear, Toyota-like design and a logical structure. An assortment of buttons complements the display, although operating the temperature system's capacitive touch controls while driving can be challenging. The driver of the Solterra must glance over the steering wheel to see the small digital gauge cluster that is located high up on the dashboard. Although Subaru improved the view of the display with a redesigned, squared-off steering wheel for 2024, the Solterra's helm still essentially rests in your lap, which is a position that requires some getting used to.

The interior of the cabin is well-appointed, with soft materials in most areas where your fingers could fall and a dashboard covered in a fabric that looks like outdoor sportswear. On the other hand, regular use will cause the gloss black plastic on the center console to readily smear and scratch. There is a lot of headroom and legroom in the back seat. In addition, the Touring has heated rear seats and standard ventilation added to the front seats for 2024. There are still 24 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, but it is reduced by the sloping rear hatchback.

Although there isn't a glove box, there is a sizable storage area beneath the center console that makes up for it. Moreover, Subaru added standard roof rails with a 176-pound dynamic capacity, even though the Solterra doesn't have a frunk. Additionally, Subaru says that its 700-pound static capacity is suitable for a rooftop tent, making them ideal for the company's adventurous customer base.

The Solterra is a delightful companion for daily driving, boasting an elegantly completed cabin, appealing appearance, and sufficient horsepower. Compared to other electric crossovers, it can also handle dirt roads with greater assurance; nevertheless, because of its limited range, getting to and from the trailhead will need extra preparation. The Solterra seems like a cautious introduction to electric vehicles for Subaru, but maybe it will serve as a springboard for a major impact later in the decade.