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The new Subaru EV looks designed to appeal to brand die-hards while attracting efficiency-minded newcomers.
Getting Greener
For a brand that positions itself as supremely outdoorsy, it’s a bit odd to be writing in 2022 that Subaru is introducing its first all-electric vehicle and what will be only the second electrified vehicle in its lineup (after the plug-in hybrid Crosstrek). Surely all those granola crunching, dog lovers would have liked their Subaru to both get good fuel economy and produce zero emissions. Well Subaru fans are finally getting their wish with the new Solterra EV.
Produced in collaboration with Toyota, the Solterra shares the same basic architecture with the new all-electric Toyota bZ4. In fact, the two compact crossovers share most of their vital components, saving their distinguishing features for the interior and exterior styling. But even though they’re built in the same factory, one major difference will be the standard all-wheel drive, a Subaru staple, on the Solterra.
Technical Specs
Aside from the unique standard all-wheel drive, the bZ4 and Solterra share the same basic powertrain: two electric motors making 215 horsepower and 256 lb-ft of torque. Though Subaru hasn’t confirmed the battery size, the bZ4 is known to carry a 72-kWh pack capable, via DC fast charging, to charge up to 80 percent of the battery in around 30 minutes (about average for the emerging EV segment). Range hasn’t been confirmed yet either, but it is purported to come in at around 220 miles to a single charge.
Interestingly, Subaru says the Solterra EV will feature one-pedal driving along with paddle shifters to modulate the level of regenerative braking. Ground clearance comes in at 8.3 inches, 0.4 less than the typical Subaru but still very good. The all-wheel drive system will include Subaru’s X-mode that grants Hill Ascent and Descent and a new Grip Control feature.
A New Gloss on Subaru Styling
The new Subaru EV takes the typical Subaru styling and adds a bit of electrified flair. The high belt line should comfort those looking to trade in their Forester or Ascent. Like the new Wilderness Editions of the Outback and Forester, the Solterra gets a generous does of black cladding around the wheel arches. Narrow pillars ensure excellent outward visibility, another Subaru hallmark. Dual liftgate spoilers atop a deeply raked rear windscreen help reduce wind noise. Two-tone paint will also be an option.
Inside, the Solterra we find loads of passenger and cargo space that will keep it competitive with its gas-powered crossover counterparts. A 12.3-inch touchscreen houses the Solterra’s infotainment system, set in portrait rather than the tablet orientation found in the Outback. Reportedly, Apple CarPlay and Andriod Auto will be available as well as a “Hey, Subaru” voice command feature.
Other features will include Subaru’s Eye-Sight safety tech system that covers adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and other features. A digital key will also be included as well as remote HVAC controls so you can warm up or cool down your Solterra prior to getting in for a drive.
Pricing and Release
The Subaru Solterra EV will likely start at around $40,000 for the base model and climb to around $50,000 for the top Touring trim, with an additional third trim falling in between. Reservations are already open for the Solterra with units expected to start arriving at dealerships this May. With production tight, Subaru isn’t likely to exceed 10,000 units in this first year. That leaves just a handful of Solterra for each Subaru dealer to dole out in any given month. With the reception that recent EV and hybrids have been getting lately, and coupled with spiking gas prices, we expect the new Solterra to be highly sought after, and that’s even before we factor in the typical Subaru buyer.
