Many suggest that electric cars from different manufacturers are way more similar than that was the case with ICE vehicles. However, it looks like Subaru is once again doing things on its own. As a company that has been famous for unique technical solutions, it now brings its approach to the EV segment, which seems slightly different compared to other models in the class. The new model debuts as the 2023 Subaru Solterra and it brings some pretty interesting qualities.
That particularly refers to good off-road performance, which is something that usually isn’t the case with electric cars. Furthermore, the new model is smooth and comfortable, and we also like its relatively conservative design. On the other hand, it lags behind rivals in some aspects, especially in terms of EV range and interior quality, where rivals like Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6 seem much better.
2023 Subaru Solterra Design
In terms of base design characteristics, it’s important to say first that Solterra was jointly developed with Toyota. Toyota released its model called bZ4X, while Subaru came up with this one. Both models are compact crossovers and share a lot of parts, especially in terms of drivetrain and mechanics. However, there are some pretty notable differences as well.
Of course, the most obvious difference is the styling. While Toyota’s model looks pretty futuristic, the 2023 Subaru Solterra comes with a quite conventional design, without too many details that emphasize the model’s EV nature. Also, the Soltera puts a lot of focus on off-road performance. You may count on standard all-wheel drive, 8.3 inches of ground clearance, grip control, hill ascent, descent assist etc. Also, there is an X-Mode selector, with various traction control settings, such as Snow, Dirt and Deep Snow, and Mud.
Interior
When it comes to interior design, the new 2023 Subaru Solterra looks nice. It’s not as flashy as some of the aforementioned rivals, but rather simple and straightforward. A typical Subaru driver will probably appreciate that, as it perfectly fits the design philosophy that has characterized this brand for decades. Still, the build quality is very good, and most surfaces are covered with high-quality materials.
The dashboard may seem bland to some, but there is a nice amount of attractive details as well, starting from a highly-positioned digital instrument cluster. We also like the massive infotainment screen that’s optional, as well as the very good driving position.
Although the overall size is slightly bigger compared to the Forester, the wheelbase is actually significantly longer, so the amount of legroom is more generous as well. On the other hand, the cargo area behind the rear seats offers just around 30 cubic feet, though that’s about average for the segment.
Features
The 2023 Subaru Solterra comes with a decent amount of standard equipment, while there are also a lot of available upgrades. Base models come standard with goodies like automatic climate control, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, an 8-inch touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth and five USB ports. The list of standard equipment also includes a long list of safety features, such as rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, intersection collision avoidance, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, forward and reverse automatic emergency braking, rear-seat reminder etc.
Higher trim levels offer various upgrades. Some of the highlights are goodies like a panoramic sunroof, a 12.3-inch touch screen, wireless device charging, a Wi-Fi hot spot, navigation and a Harman Kardon stereo. Also, you can get additional safety features, such as a surround-view camera, parking assist, rear cross-traffic alert, rain-sensing windshield wipers etc.
2023 Subaru Solterra Powertrain, Performance, Battery
The 2023 Subaru Solterra comes in just one configuration. All models feature all-wheel drive and come equipped with a couple of 80 kW motors, one on each axle. The max output goes around 215 horsepower and 249 pound-feet of torque, which is enough to make this crossover go from zero to sixty in about 6.5 seconds. The overall performance is adequate and should satisfy most drivers.
The battery features 71.4 kW of capacity, which is enough for 228 miles of the all-electric range, according to the manufacturer. When it comes to charging, you may count on a Level 2 charger that’s good for 6.6 kW, which fully recharges the battery in about 9 hours. The fast DC charger is also available, with a charging speed of 100 kW. With this unit, you can charge 80% of the battery in about 56 minutes.
2023 Subaru Solterra Release Date and Price
The 2023 Subaru Solterra is already available in most markets, with a starting price of around 45.000 dollars.