Exterior Design
The Subaru Solterra EV certainly stands out with its distinctive exterior design. The all-wheel drive SUV boasts fog lights that are separate from the headlights, giving it a unique look. The Subaru badge proudly adorns the front, signaling the car’s Japanese heritage. But the question remains: is an all-wheel drive necessary for a family-sized SUV, or is front-wheel drive sufficient? We’ll delve into that later.
Front-end Details
Taking a closer look at the front of the car, you will notice a subtle combination of chrome and black elements. A strip of black inserts breaks up the chrome, adding a touch of contemporary styling. Another black insert can be found between the bonnet’s end and the windscreen. Additionally, the car features two air curtains, contributing to the aerodynamics and enhancing the overall appeal.
Different from Toyota
Compared to its Toyota counterpart, the Subaru Solterra EV showcases a distinctive rear design. The light bar at the back is separated into clusters on either side, adding an element of uniqueness. There may be some subtle differences on the boot lid, potentially a stylized line or something similar. However, one thing that remains the same is the unusual rear spoiler, featuring a small lip that runs across the back. In terms of storage, the car offers a spacious boot capacity of 452L, which is commendable for a dual motor vehicle.
Interior Features
Moving inside, the touring version of the Subaru Solterra EV comes equipped with a Harmon Cardon sound system. This premium audio setup adds a touch of luxury to the cabin. Fortunately, the sound system does not impact the available floor space, which allows for convenient storage of essential items like the type 2 cable or granny charger.
Efficiency Concerns
While the Subaru Solterra EV impresses with its aesthetics and features, there is one aspect of the car that leaves me somewhat perplexed its efficiency. I must admit, I am not particularly satisfied with the overall fuel consumption of this vehicle. In the following sections, we will delve deeper into this matter and explore the factors contributing to its less-than-ideal efficiency.
And that concludes our comprehensive assessment of the Subaru Solterra EV. From its distinctive exterior design to its premium interior features, the car certainly has a lot to offer. However, the issue of fuel efficiency is a lingering concern that cannot be overlooked. As technology advances, we can only hope for future improvements that optimize the vehicle’s energy consumption.
Subaru Solterra EV: Spacious and Convenient
The Subaru Solterra EV certainly comes with its fair share of features and conveniences. One of the most notable aspects is the flexible load cover for the cargo area. This is incredibly handy for those who often have items like dog boxes and bikes to transport, as it provides a secure and covered space. However, it’s worth noting that not everything will fit perfectly into the hard shell of the cargo area.
Another pleasing feature is the electric tailgate. While it is undoubtedly convenient, it does have a bit of a tendency to beep quite frequently. Additionally, the car boasts a fast-charging capability, with the ability to reach 150 kW charging. Unfortunately, the charging curve on this car does raise some questions, especially when compared to the Toyota. Furthermore, the car’s charging port is located on the side and has a solid, satisfying feel to it.
However, when it comes to AC charging, the maximum speed is limited to 7 kW. While this is perfectly fine for home charging, it does mean that you won’t be able to take full advantage of on-street chargers. This is quite disappointing considering the price point of the car, which starts at just over $51,000. In a competitive market, these little charging details become increasingly important for potential buyers to consider.
Impressive Rear Space
One area where both the Solterra and the Toyota excel is in rear space. There is an abundance of room, thanks to the flat floor design. The doors offer ample height, allowing passengers to comfortably see out of the windows. Speaking of windows, they are of a good size, providing plenty of natural light. Opting for the higher-spec model also grants you the luxury of a panoramic glass roof, offering even more brightness and an open feeling to the cabin. Additionally, there is generous space for your feet and knees, ensuring a comfortable journey for the whole family.
The Subaru Solterra EV may have a few drawbacks in terms of charging capabilities, but it does compensate with its spacious and well-thought-out design. With its flexible load cover and electric tailgate, it offers practicality and convenience for those who are constantly on the move. Furthermore, the rear space is truly impressive, ensuring that every passenger enjoys a comfortable ride. While it may not be perfect, the Solterra EV is certainly worth considering for anyone in the market for an electric vehicle.
Interior Comfort and Design
In higher spec versions of the Subaru Solterra EV, you’ll find a range of features aimed at enhancing your comfort and convenience. One notable feature is the inclusion of heated seats, which can provide much-needed warmth during chilly days. Additionally, there are two USB-C charging points, allowing you to conveniently charge your devices on the go. The interior design of the Solterra is undeniably impressive, with a well-placed armrest and comfortable seating angle. It truly offers a pleasant and enjoyable space to sit in the back. The seats provide good support for your back and thighs, ensuring a comfortable ride. Although the roof may not offer a vast amount of space, it provides a decent amount of headroom, offering a couple of extra inches, depending on your height.
The Perplexing Steering Wheel
One aspect of the Subaru Solterra EV that raises perplexity is the design of the steering wheel. It bears a striking resemblance to the steering wheel found in the new Prius by Toyota. Unfortunately, the design leaves much to be desired. Its unconventional appearance is simply unappealing. Additionally, there is an infrared sensor located on the steering wheel, constantly keeping an eye on driver attention. This sensor tends to beep quite frequently, warning you about various things. Even a simple act of resting your hand on the steering wheel might trigger a warning message, alerting you of “driver awareness blocked” or something of the sort. This constant vigilance can become frustrating over time and leaves us questioning the necessity of such a design choice.
Annoyances for Android Users
For those who possess an Android phone, using it with the Subaru Solterra EV might prove to be a bit frustrating. The vehicle requires a cable connection to stream content from your Android device. This reliance on cables can be inconvenient, especially in an era where wireless connectivity is prevalent. Additionally, the Bluetooth audio functionality seems to be limited. This limitation may hinder the seamless integration of your Android phone with the vehicle’s entertainment system. Overall, it seems that Subaru could have made the user experience more user-friendly for Android users.
Navigational Quirks
The Solterra EV boasts a navigation system with impressive graphics, offering a visually satisfying experience. However, the system’s reliability is somewhat questionable. It frequently displays inaccurate traffic information, warning of heavy traffic just 1 kilometer ahead, only for no traffic to be found. It appears that the navigation system attempts to replicate the functionality of Google Maps but fails to provide consistent and accurate data. This inconsistency could be a result of poor connectivity or some other technical issue. Regardless of the reason, it leaves users feeling frustrated and somewhat misled.
Luxury Features and Missing Touches
In higher spec versions of the Subaru Solterra EV, you are treated to a range of luxury features. These include automatic heated seats, a heated steering wheel, climate control, and misting devices for the front windshield. These additions undoubtedly contribute to a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. However, it is puzzling to note the absence of a rear wiper. This missing touch might prove inconvenient, particularly during rainy or snowy weather conditions when visibility through the rear window is crucial.
In , the Subaru Solterra EV offers a fully loaded interior with several
Interior and Controls
The interior of the Subaru Solterra EV is fully loaded with convenient features, but it can also be a bit vexing at times. One particular annoyance is the placement of buttons, which requires you to reach down and operate them effectively. However, the presence of a button for one-pedal drive adds a level of convenience to the driving experience. Additionally, certain trims come with a wireless charging plate, a USB-A port, and two USB-C ports, providing ample space to charge all your devices. The drink holders are well-designed, and the armrest is adequate in size.
Comfort and Design
The 360-degree overview camera in the Subaru Solterra EV is exceptional, although its quality is difficult to appreciate in grassy surroundings. However, when you find yourself in a situation where you need to navigate tricky terrain or avoid obstructing a road, the camera comes to your rescue by projecting a clear line indicating the car’s positioning underneath. The synthetic leather seats, while not the most luxurious, are durable and practical. The fabric material used on the interior of the car may not be groundbreaking, but it exudes a sense of longevity. Moreover, the absence of rattles or squeaks enhances the overall feeling of quality in the vehicle.
Technology and Safety
The Subaru Solterra EV boasts a head-up display that serves as your instrument panel, reminiscent of the one found in the Prius. However, depending on your seating position, the wheel may partially obstruct the display, although not to the extent of being a major hindrance. The head-up display provides all the necessary information, allowing you to keep your eyes focused on the road without distractions. This technology is a convenient addition that enhances the overall safety of the vehicle.
Overall, the Subaru Solterra EV offers a fully loaded interior with convenient features. The placement of buttons may prove to be a minor annoyance, but the car compensates with its wireless charging plate and ample USB ports. The design and comfort of the interior are satisfactory, with sturdy synthetic leather seats and durable fabric materials. The inclusion of the 360-degree overview camera adds an extra layer of safety, while the head-up display keeps critical information easily accessible without diverting your attention from the road. While the Subaru Solterra EV may not astonish you with its interior, it undoubtedly guarantees a lasting and reliable driving experience.
Driving Performance and Handling
The Subaru Solterra EV boasts impressive performance when it comes to grip. Unlike other brands that prioritize a whopping 300 brake horsepower on their dual motor vehicles, Subaru has taken a different approach. Rather than focusing solely on power, they have prioritized grip, ensuring that their car can tackle challenging terrains with ease. This decision proves to be a wise one, as the Solterra effortlessly breezes through muddy paths and sticky terrain, leaving no room for hesitation.
X Mode for Off-Road Adventures
One of the standout features of the Solterra is its X mode, a feature borrowed from Toyota. With X mode, drivers can confidently navigate through deep mud and snow, or even loose mud that might seem excessive for everyday driving. While most drivers may never encounter such extreme conditions, it’s reassuring to know that the Solterra is capable of handling even the most challenging environments. Whether it’s a muddy festival or an off-road course, this vehicle will have you covered.
Interior Space and Clever Design
Subaru has taken an innovative approach when it comes to the placement of the two motors, ensuring that the interior space remains uncompromised. Despite having identical outputs in the front and rear motors, the size of the rear motor has been adjusted to maintain maximum interior space. This clever design not only allows passengers to enjoy ample legroom and comfort but also showcases Subaru’s dedication to intelligent engineering.
Fuel Efficiency Woes
However, there is one major drawback to the Solterra that cannot be ignored – its abysmal fuel efficiency. No matter how hard I tried, even when switching to eco mode, I was unable to achieve a rating lower than 22 KW hours per 100 km. This level of inefficiency is truly astonishing, especially considering the car’s battery capacity. One would expect a vehicle of this size and stature to be able to cope with more economical energy consumption. It’s disappointing that Subaru has not addressed this issue, especially when Toyota faced a similar problem and had to rely on a software update to improve efficiency.
In , the Subaru Solterra EV offers exceptional grip and handling, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize off-road adventures. Its X mode and clever interior design demonstrate Subaru’s commitment to providing a reliable and comfortable driving experience. However, the car’s lackluster fuel efficiency is a cause for concern. Despite its fully loaded features, the Solterra falls short in terms of energy consumption, leaving much to be desired in this aspect. It is my hope that Subaru will address this issue and provide a more efficient driving experience for their customers.
Efficiency Concerns
When it comes to efficiency, the Subaru Solterra EV leaves much to be desired. While it may boast a dual motor setup, the reality is that it falls short in this department. Even on a relatively mild day like today, with temperatures hovering around 11 degrees, one has to question just how far this car could go on a single charge.
One cannot help but wonder if a journey on the motorway, particularly in cold weather, would result in a range of over 200 kilometers. Sure, one could argue that if you need to cover more than 200 km in a day, then this car may not be the right fit for you. But let’s be honest, if you’ve invested your hard-earned money in a vehicle like this, you would expect it to perform better, especially in chilly conditions.
Handling in the Cold
Now, I will give credit where credit is due – the Subaru Solterra EV does handle beautifully in cold weather. Its grip on the road is exceptional, providing a sense of security as you navigate through icy conditions. However, while this may be one of its strong points, it cannot compensate for the lackluster performance in terms of range.
Underwhelming Power
Let’s not beat around the bush here – the Solterra EV is not going to blow you away with its speed. Even with its electric torque and impressive acceleration, it’s not the kind of car that will leave you pinned to your seat when you hit the accelerator. It’s more of a “yeah, we’ll get there eventually” kind of experience.
So, if you’re expecting the sheer force of a powerful electric motor propelling you forward, you may be disappointed. The Solterra EV is more about providing a smooth and relaxing driving experience rather than delivering heart-pounding thrills.
The Smooth Ride
Despite its shortcomings, there is no denying that the Solterra EV offers a comfortable and smooth ride. Even with the larger wheels, the suspension handles bumps in the road with ease. And with plenty of tire profile, you won’t feel every imperfection on the pavement.
Driving this car is a truly relaxing experience, allowing you to unwind and enjoy the journey. It may not have the power and range of some other EVs on the market, but it compensates with a pleasant and serene driving experience.
Excellent Safety Kit
The Subaru Solterra EV comes equipped with an outstanding safety kit. It includes features such as frontal collision blind spot monitoring and high-quality cameras. The car is packed with all the necessary safety aids to ensure a secure driving experience. However, there is one aspect that I find to be a bit excessive the driver monitor. It seems that there is just too much going on, creating a sense of overload. Despite this, the car does offer radar cruise control, making it a well-equipped vehicle overall.
Premium Feel, But a Bit Boring
The Subaru Solterra EV, although fully loaded, lacks a bit of excitement. The predominantly dark interior could benefit from some lighter shades, perhaps a nice touch of gray in the headlining. It would give the car a more premium feel. Nevertheless, I believe that Subaru’s main selling point lies in the fact that you don’t really need to customize the car. Even the standard version comes well-specced, indicating the brand’s commitment to providing a comprehensive package.
User-Friendly Physical Buttons
One of the advantages of the Subaru Solterra EV is the presence of physical buttons. This allows for a more hands-on experience and is a welcome feature for those who prefer tactile controls. The tradeoff is that the software behind these buttons may not be the fanciest or offer an abundance of menus. However, this simplicity can be seen as a positive aspect, as it ensures straightforward operation without frustrating complications.
Unremarkable Driving Experience
In terms of driving, the Subaru Solterra EV is much like any other electric vehicle. Its performance on the road is, for lack of a better term, unremarkable. It delivers a driving experience that is comparable to vehicles such as the ID3. While it may not have the same level of power as some of Kia’s offerings, it remains a reliable option for everyday commuting.
Subaru Solterra EV Review: A Mixed Bag
The Subaru Solterra EV is making its way into the highly competitive electric vehicle market, but it faces some tough competition. While Subaru has a loyal following known for their long-lasting vehicles, the Solterra may struggle to stand out in a crowd. Let’s take a closer look at what this EV has to offer.
Quality Build and Unique Design
One thing Subaru is known for is their durability, and the Solterra is no exception. Built with Toyota’s underpinnings, this electric SUV is well put together. It may not be the most eye-catching vehicle, but its rugged character adds to its appeal. The bulky plastic exterior gives it a distinctive look, which may attract fans of Subaru’s previous models, such as the Legacy and Forester.
The Price to Pay
With a starting price of around 56,000 Euros, the higher-spec Solterra comes with a range of impressive features. However, its charging speed and overall efficiency are major downsides. In a market flooded with electric vehicles offering better performance and value for money, the Solterra struggles to justify its price tag. It may appeal to die-hard Subaru fans, but for others, there are more tempting options available.
Competition and Alternatives
If you’re still drawn to the Solterra, it’s worth considering its main competitor the Toyota EV. Not only does it offer a slightly better warranty, but it also provides a more compelling package overall. The Solterra may have a tough time convincing potential buyers to choose it over the competition.
Ultimately, the decision to purchase the Solterra boils down to personal preference. Are you a Subaru enthusiast from the past, longing for a new electric vehicle from the brand? Or are you more interested in what other manufacturers are offering in this space? The Solterra presents itself as another option, but it may not be the standout choice.
As we reflect on what the late Colum MC Cray would have thought about this vehicle, it’s clear that the Solterra is another proposition in the electric vehicle market. While it has its strengths and weaknesses, it may be a niche choice for a dedicated group of enthusiasts.
Price and Efficiency Concerns
Despite its ability to deliver superior grip, the Subaru Solterra EV leaves me with mixed feelings. Undoubtedly, this fully loaded electric vehicle comes with a hefty price tag that, in my opinion, outweighs its value. The cost seems extravagant and inaccessible for the average consumer, making it an impractical choice for many potential buyers.
In addition to its high price, the Solterra EV’s inefficiency raises eyebrows. While electric vehicles are often praised for their eco-friendly nature and energy efficiency, this model fails to meet those expectations. Its thirst for power seems excessive, leaving me questioning whether its energy consumption is justified.
Superior Grip
If there’s one area where the Subaru Solterra EV excels, it’s grip. When it comes to providing traction, this vehicle doesn’t disappoint. Its exceptional grip on the road ensures a smooth and controlled driving experience, especially in challenging weather conditions. Whether you’re navigating muddy off-road tracks or traversing slippery slopes, the Solterra EV offers an impressive level of stability and control.
Luxury Features
There’s no denying that the Solterra EV is packed with luxurious features. From its sleek exterior design to the state-of-the-art infotainment system, this electric vehicle revels in its opulence. With a spacious and modern interior, it creates a comfortable and indulgent atmosphere for both the driver and passengers. However, such extravagance comes at a significant cost, contributing to the overall inflated price of the vehicle.
Questionable Value
Although the Subaru Solterra EV does offer a range of advanced features, including cutting-edge safety technology and seamless connectivity, its steep price tag poses a significant barrier to entry. This raises questions about the true value proposition of this electric vehicle. One must ponder whether the inflated cost justifies the additional features, or if similar benefits can be found in more affordable alternatives on the market.
The Thirsty Work?
Perhaps the most perplexing aspect of the Subaru Solterra EV is its thirst for power. Despite being an electric vehicle, one would expect it to be more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. Unfortunately, this model falls short in that regard, consuming power at a rate that raises concerns about its environmental impact. With the growing focus on sustainability and reducing carbon footprints, the Solterra EV’s inefficiency is disappointing and out of sync with the industry’s expectations.
In , while the Subaru Solterra EV impresses with its exceptional grip and luxurious features, its high price and inefficiency cannot be overlooked. The vehicle’s extravagant cost alienates potential buyers and its excessive power consumption raises questions about its sustainability. With more affordable and eco-friendly electric vehicles available, the Solterra EV struggles to stand out in the competitive market.
