alt=Front three-quarters view of the red 2024 Subaru SolterraSubaru’s entry into the electric vehicle market comes in the form of the Solterra, an all-wheel-drive SUV designed to blend electric power with Subaru’s renowned ruggedness. While the Solterra offers a comfortable ride and a spacious interior, it faces fierce competition from rivals like the Tesla Model Y, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, and Ford Mustang Mach-E, many of which offer lower price points. Does the Solterra have what it takes to stand out? This review explores the Solterra Touring to determine its strengths and weaknesses.
Design and Interior: Familiar Yet Different
The Solterra breaks away from traditional Subaru design cues, boasting a more angular and modern aesthetic. While not the most striking EV on the road, its design isn’t unappealing. The large black plastic wheel arches and pointed rear contribute to its distinctive appearance. The close resemblance to the Toyota bZ4X is no coincidence, as the two vehicles were co-developed.
alt=Rear three-quarters view of the red 2024 Subaru SolterraInside, the Solterra provides ample space for a small family, with a generous 23.8 cubic-foot trunk for storage. A digital gauge cluster sits further back towards the windshield than in many other vehicles, complemented by either a 12.3-inch or 8-inch infotainment display. The square steering wheel might seem unusual at first, but it becomes comfortable quickly. Plush leather seats and seat ventilation add to the comfort of the Touring trim, though some interior materials feel slightly plasticky.
Technology and Driver Assistance: Adequate but Not Advanced
While not a technological trailblazer, the Solterra offers a decent suite of tech features. The 12.3-inch infotainment system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which is fortunate given Subaru’s less-than-stellar native software. A wireless phone charger is also included, easily accommodating larger smartphones.
alt=Truck storage area of the 2024 Subaru SolterraDriver-assist features include blind-spot monitoring, a backup camera (though the fish-eye effect is a drawback), a bird’s-eye view parking assist, adaptive cruise control, lane centering, and a digital rearview mirror. However, many of these features are reserved for higher trims or require additional options.
Driving Performance: Competent but Not Exhilarating
The all-wheel-drive Solterra, powered by two motors generating a combined 215 horsepower and 249 pound-feet of torque, offers a generally pleasant driving experience. Multiple driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Power, and the off-road-focused X-Mode, provide versatility. While relatively responsive, the Solterra isn’t as quick as some competitors in its price range. Paddle shifters allow for regenerative braking adjustment, and single-pedal driving is available but needs to be re-enabled each time the car is started.
alt=Dashboard display of the 2024 Subaru SolterraWith a 0-60 mph time of 6.5 seconds, the Solterra lags behind quicker rivals like the Ioniq 5 and EV6.
Range and Charging: A Significant Disadvantage
The Solterra’s range and charging capabilities are its biggest weaknesses. The maximum range of 227 miles on the base Premium trim (225 miles on other trims) falls short of the 300+ mile range offered by many competitors. Furthermore, no larger battery option is available.
alt=Center console controls of the 2024 Subaru SolterraCharging speeds are also disappointing, with a maximum of 100kW, resulting in a 0-80% charge time of around 35 minutes. This pales in comparison to many modern EVs that support 150kW or even 350kW charging, enabling much faster charging times.
Conclusion: A Solid Choice, But Consider the Alternatives
alt=Front view of the red 2024 Subaru SolterraThe 2024 Subaru Solterra is a decent EV, especially for those prioritizing all-wheel drive. However, its limited range, slower charging, and less competitive performance compared to rivals like the Tesla Model Y, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Kia EV6, and Hyundai Ioniq 5 make it a less compelling choice for many. For those still interested in the Solterra, the Limited trim offers a good balance of features and price. However, potential buyers should carefully consider the alternatives before making a decision.
