Solterra is Subaru’s EV Answer

YARMOUTH PORT, Mass. – Silky, smooth and quick – not the normal terms to describe a Subaru sport-utility vehicle (SUV), but when it comes to the battery-electric (EV) 2024 Solterra Touring, they fit perfectly.

And, in the case of the 2025 version, an exceptional value story (but more on that later).

What is normal for virtually all Subaru models sold in the United States is standard Symmetrical All Wheel Drive (AWD) and the latest version of the company’s heralded Subaru EyeSight® advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), all part of the Solterra mix.

Developed in conjunction with Toyota (which sells its variant, the BZ4X) these features, as well as things like Dual-Function X-MODE® with Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud modes with Grip Control and Downhill Assist Control for enhanced performance in low-grip and off-road conditions, make the Solterra a true Subaru. Add in 8.3 inches of ground clearance, and the Solterra has true SUV characteristics, ready to take on whatever roads it encounters.

Powertrain produces quick performance

The Solterra’s StarDrive® all-electric drivetrain with front and rear AC synchronous permanent-magnet motors, integral transaxles (single ratio reduction, 13.8:1) and power inverters produce 80kW at each axle produce a total of 215 horsepower and 249 pounds-feet of torque.

Like its EV brethren, the Solterra delivers this power immediately – stepping on the accelerator pedal returns instant response and forward progress. According to Car and Driver testing, the 4,486-pound, 184.6-inch long (73.2-inch wide, 65-inch high, 112-inch wheelbase) SUV can go from rest to 60 miles per hour in a rapid 6.1 seconds, making it one of the fastest non-sports- model Subaru ever.

Providing the juice for the motors is a 72.8kWh lithium-ion battery of 96 cells (with cooling system) capable of fast DC charging. The company claims it takes nine hours to recharge a depleted Solterra with a Level 2 charger, while improvements for the 2024 model, enhance fast charging allowing replenishment from 10 to 80 percent in “as little as 35 minutes.”

My experience was 35 minutes to charge from 33 to 80 percent and another 45 minutes to reach 100 percent. The Electrify America “HyperFast Charger” I used at the Cape Cod Mall in Hyannis ran at 53.00 kW and cost $0.56 per kWh. My total was $28.32 including sales tax.

As I have said in previous columns about EVs and PHEVs, home Level 2 charging is the way to go. I am awaiting the installation of my Autel MaxiCharger AC Wallbox Home unit in my new condo garage which, based on local rates, would have reduced my recharging cost by about half.

Fast charging is a big plus with the Solterra because range for the compact SUV is expected to be 222 miles which is on the lower side for newer EVs (which run between 245 to 330 miles). Again, a home charger mitigates most range issues (most American drivers average less than 45 miles in daily driving, well within any EV’s range), except on longer trips.

One means of adding to the range by on-the-go battery replenishment comes courtesy of regenerative braking. The steering-wheel paddles, part of the items changed for 2024 along with the steering-wheel design, control the four-step system which culminates in S-Pedal Drive, Subaru’s name for one-pedal driving.

The system is not as aggressive as others and like all automotive systems, demands the driver learn its characteristics to understand how fast the Solterra will decelerate when utilized and how long it will take the vehicle to come to a complete stop.

Platform dynamics

Built on the Subaru e-Global platform, the Solterra was designed from the ground up as an EV. The platform’s fully independent suspension features MacPherson-type struts with internal rebound springs; lower L-arms; coil springs, and stabilizer bar up front. In the rear is a double- wishbone; coil springs; dampers with internal rebound springs; steel lower arms with aerodynamic covers, and stabilizer bar setup.

A quick-ratio (14.1:1) electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion, variable speed and torque-sensitive steering system needs 2.8 turns lock-to-lock and produces a 36.7-foot turning circle.

The electronic-controlled, power-assisted friction braking system includes features like Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) with all-wheel, all-speed traction control (TRAC); Active Cornering Assist; four-channel/four-sensor anti-lock (ABS), and ventilated rotors front (12.9 inches plus dual-piston calipers) and rear (12.5 inches, plus single-piston calipers).

Latest EyeSight ADAS

EyeSight identifies the Subaru suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), but the content of the group changes continuously as the company makes improvements to it. Hands-Free Driving debuted with the 2024 Subaru Solterra which allows the SUV to travel within its lane at up to 25 miles per hour with just driver supervision.

The new Active Lane Change allows the 2024 Solterra to change lanes on command. Another added feature is cross-traffic alert joining blind-spot monitoring; rear-camera detection with pedestrian alert and dynamic radar cruise control with lane tracing and road-sign assist.

All of the powertrain, platform and ADAS features help make the Solterra a fun SUV to drive. The enjoyment begins with the instantaneous and silky-smooth delivery of power. The chassis soaks up irregular road surfaces and enables aggressive navigation of curving paths. In short – the systems work very well together.

Comfort, convenience and technology inside

Befitting the top-of-the-range model, the 2024 Subaru Solterra Touring (a Touring Onyx has been added for 2025 atop the range adding unique paint color, 20-inch black-gloss wheels and unique badging), the cabin is filled with modern technology and comfort/convenience features.

Most noticeable of the new stuff is the 12.3-inch color LCD touchscreen which is the heart of the infotainment system which includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and an 11-speaker Harman Kardon® 576-Watt-equivalent premium audio system.

A dual-zone automatic climate control system takes care of the overall cabin temperatures while front-seat heaters and ventilation, along with power adjustment, help fine-tune individual comfort (as does the heated steering wheel).

There are more features, like moonroof, wireless mobile-device charging and surround-view monitor to distinguish this model.

For value, go 2025, not 2024

The three (four for 2025) model Subaru Solterra range was mostly a carry-over from the 2024 (like I reviewed) to the 2025 model year with one major exception – major price drops across the board.

In 2024, the Premium carried a $44,995 base price as the range entry. For 2025, the Premium price dropped to $38,495, a $6,5000 decrease. In addition, the EV remains eligible for local, state, and up to $7,500 in federal, tax credits!

The 2024 Subaru Solterra Touring reviewed priced out at $54,558 including optional paint, all-weather floor liners, cargo tray and destination/delivery charges. The same vehicle for 2025 is priced at $47,247 or a $7,311 savings on the newer model.

The 2024 model represented a reasonable price for an EV compact SUV; the 2025 version is a superb value for an excellent, modern EV.