The Subaru Solterra 2025 is getting quite good impression in the electric vehicle (EV) market and for good reason. It combines the beloved traits of Subaru with the modern benefits of electric driving. In this review, we’ll talk about the features, performance, and off-road capabilities of this electric vehicle.
Pricing and Range
The Subaru Solterra is available in two models. The base model and the Drummond comes in at $80,000. While the Touring version is priced at $85,000. Both variants promise an impressive range of 485 kilometers per charge.
Both models are equipped with all-wheel drive, powered by two motors (one in the front and one in the back) that deliver a total power of 160 kW and torque of 337 Nm. This setup allows for a 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in just 6.9 seconds. Think of it as driving a 2-litre turbo vehicle, minus the turbo lag. Both versions house a 71.4 kWh battery pack beneath the chassis.
Driving Experience
What better way to test the Solterra than with a road trip? We took it on a journey from Teti to Opotiki, a distance of 278 km, to see how it performed. The drive included highways and twisty roads, providing a good mix of conditions to evaluate the vehicle.
Upon reaching the 100 km/h zone, it was time to test the 0 to 100 km/h time. While it felt a bit sluggish off the line, once it got going, the acceleration was impressive. It’s a smooth ride, akin to that of a combustion engine without the noise and vibrations. Driving on the highway, the Solterra feels like a comfortable family car, akin to a Toyota Camry. Yet, when it comes to cornering, it surprises with its nimbleness. The low center of gravity, thanks to the battery placement, contributes to its stability.
Off-Road Capabilities: Finally, we took the Solterra off-road to test its capabilities. Subaru markets this vehicle as having moderate off-road ability, and it didn’t disappoint. The symmetrical all-wheel drive system performed admirably on various terrains, including steep slopes and tricky surfaces.
Using the X-Mode, the Solterra handled deep snow and mud with ease. It’s not a hardcore off-roader, but it certainly can tackle light off road adventures, making it a versatile option for outdoor enthusiasts.
Exterior Design
Now, let’s talk about looks. The exterior design of the Solterra is a mixed bag. Personally, I’m not completely sold on the large grille, which feels reminiscent of the Ford Mustang Mach-E. The rugged plastic panels aim to project toughness, but they seem more like a costume than a genuine representation of off-road capability.
The first impression of the car is a sea of gray. The carpets, dashboard, and seats are all in various shades of gray, making the interior feel somewhat dull. If you’re the type who enjoys a pop of color, you might find this a bit underwhelming.
Accessories and Gadgets
The central display is responsive and easy to use, offering a decent mapping system. However, it can be a bit overwhelming due to the amount of information displayed. A bird’s eye view camera system is also included for reversing, which is handy for parking in tight spaces.
For connectivity, both models come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the base model lacks wireless phone charging, which is a bit of a letdown in today’s tech savvy world.
Charging and Efficiency
Now, let’s discuss about charging. They claimed 485 km per charge is based on the NC cycle, which isn’t very realistic in real-world driving conditions. In practice, you can expect around 380 km per charge. Charging from 27% to 80% took about 45 minutes, which is typical for a road trip.
Now, let’s rate this car and my overall experience with this car:
- Performance: 7/10 – Good acceleration and handling.
- Comfort: 7/10 – Comfortable and spacious interior.
- Efficiency: 4/10 – Range is less than advertised.
- Gadgets: 6/10 – Lacks some modern tech features.
- Value: 5/10 – Competitive pricing but not the cheapest EV.
- Charging: 6/10 – Reasonable charging times.
- Style: 5/10 – Functional but not flashy.
- Fit for Purpose: 7/10 – Great for family outings and moderate off-roading.
- PSC (Potato Storage Capacity): 4/10 – Limited storage options.
Conclusion
The Subaru Solterra is a solid entry into the electric vehicle market, offering good comfort, performance, and off-road capability. While it has some shortcomings, such as range and storage options, it excels in areas that matter to Subaru fans. If you’re looking for an EV that can handle both urban and outdoor adventures, the Subaru Solterra might just be your next vehicle.
Hi. I’m Sahariar Ahmed. I’m passionate about Technology, Automobile, and Electric Vehicle (EV). I’ve done my graduation in Mechanical Engineering from Daffodil International University. I love content writing and exploring tech products.
