The Optimum Traction and All-Wheel Drive
Subaru’s first electric vehicle, the Solterra, offers optimum traction on difficult terrains such as deep snow or steep and slippery slopes. This is made possible by the permanent all-wheel drive system, which comes as standard with electric motors on each axle.
Luxurious Interior Features
The Solterra’s price rivals include Kia’s EV6, Nissan’s ARA Scoda, ANC 4 Hy Anak 5, Tesla’s Model Y, VW’s ID4, and its donor car, Toyota’s BZ 4X. Inside the Solterra, you will find a comfortable faux leather upholstery that is both stylish and easy to clean. You can enjoy the luxury of a panoramic sunroof, a high-quality Harmon Cardon sound system, electrically adjustable seats, adaptive cruise control, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel.
Impressive Standard Kit
The Solterra comes with an array of standard features, including an excellent HD 360 parking camera and a digital rear-view mirror for enhanced visibility. It is equipped with a heat pump to handle extreme temperatures and ensure optimal performance. The power tailgate and 18-inch alloy wheels add to the convenience and style of this electric SUV. Additionally, wireless Apple CarPlay functions flawlessly, allowing for easy connectivity with your phone.
User-Friendly Technology
Subaru has created a user-friendly environment inside the Solterra, combining traditional buttons and touch screen functions. The 7-inch driver’s binnacle provides limited but easily readable information. The central 12-inch screen is brilliant, with nice graphics, clear visibility, and responsive touch controls. It offers a seamless navigation system that responds to gestures and taps.
Ample Cabin Space and Storage
The Solterra offers generous cabin space and storage options. There are plenty of cubbies and compartments scattered throughout the cabin for storing personal belongings. Additionally, there is a spacious storage space under the center console, equipped with charging ports for added convenience.
In conclusion, Subaru’s first electric vehicle, the Solterra, impresses with its optimum traction, standard all-wheel drive, luxurious interior features, impressive standard kit, user-friendly technology, and ample cabin space with storage options. It is a promising addition to the electric SUV market.
Interior Features
Subaru’s first electric vehicle, the Solterra, comes with a number of convenient interior features. You can place your phone in the designated phone holder or use the tray on top, which has a translucent cover. Surprisingly, the cup holders also serve the dual purpose of storing your phone and holding your cups. The rear seats are designed for comfort, with armrests that have cup holders and a pair of USBC sockets. Additionally, there is no transmission tunnel, providing ample legroom and the ability to adjust the seat backs for optimum comfort.
Storage Capacity
The Solterra offers a spacious and well-designed boot opening with a wide square shape. This translates to a generous capacity of 452 liters. Moreover, you have the option to fold the rear seats in a 60/40 configuration, further increasing the available space. There is even a designated area in the boot floor for storing cables. However, it is disappointing to note that there is no additional front trunk space.
Safety Technologies
The Solterra is equipped with a range of safety technologies to ensure a secure driving experience. Some of these features can be accessed directly from the steering wheel, including Lane Keep Assist. The vehicle also comes with automatic emergency braking and blind spot monitoring. These features provide peace of mind and enhance overall safety on the road.
Performance and Handling
Despite its weight of 2 tons, the Solterra surprises with its agile and nimble driving experience. The vehicle handles well and excels at maneuvering in tight spaces, such as parking lots. It effortlessly navigates supermarket speed bumps and passengers are treated to a comfortable ride, thanks to the cushioned suspension system. The Solterra proves that electric SUVs can be enjoyable to drive.
Range and Charging
The estimated range of the Solterra is approximately 465 km when using limited settings. However, if you drive the vehicle normally, the range decreases to around 330 km. It is worth noting that in cold temperatures, the charge doesn’t last as long. To increase the range, Subaru offers various charging options.
Introducing Subaru’s First EV: Solterra
Subaru has taken a leap into the world of electric vehicles with the exciting release of their first-ever EV, the Solterra. Packed with innovative features and impressive performance, the Solterra is set to make a mark in the EV market. Let’s take a closer look at what this electric vehicle has to offer.
Regeneration Level Adjustment
One of the standout features of the Solterra is its adjustable level of regeneration. Located conveniently behind the steering wheel, paddles allow drivers to control the level of regeneration they prefer. For those seeking a more aggressive setting, the dashboard offers a quick access button for the strongest regeneration level. Although achieving one-pedal driving may not be entirely possible, the Solterra’s advanced regeneration system allows for a smooth and controlled driving experience.
Powerful Performance
The Solterra boasts impressive acceleration, reaching 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 6.9 seconds. Despite its weight, the EV feels surprisingly light to maneuver. The handling is smooth and responsive, with the battery having minimal impact on the overall performance. Powered by dual electric motors, the Solterra generates 215 brake horsepower and 337 Newton meters of torque. This ample power is more than sufficient to carry passengers and their belongings, ensuring a comfortable and dynamic driving experience.
Charging Options
When it comes to charging, the Solterra offers both rapid and slow charging capabilities. With 150 kW rapid charging, the EV can reach 10 to 80% charge in less than 30 minutes, making it convenient for those on the go. However, slow charging can be time-consuming, taking approximately 13 hours from a 7.4 kW home wall box to achieve a full charge. It is important to consider these charging times and plan accordingly for longer journeys.
Versatile Off-Road Capabilities
While the Solterra may not be designed for intense off-road adventures, it does offer a decent amount of off-road capability. With its impressive ground clearance and robust drivetrain settings, the EV can handle tracks and wintry trails with ease. However, for more demanding terrains and colder climates, it is crucial to have access to nearby charging stations to ensure a smooth driving experience.
Subaru and Toyota Collaboration
The foundation of the Solterra comes from the collaboration between Subaru and Toyota. Drawing inspiration from Toyota’s successful BZ 4X, Subaru has incorporated their unique design elements and engineering expertise to create a vehicle that blends innovation and reliability seamlessly.
The X Mode Settings
The X mode settings in the Subaru Solterra have been developed by the experienced team at Subaru. These settings offer a solution for those who are looking to take their electric SUV off-road.
A High Price Point
Although the Solterra offers a range of features, it comes with a high price tag compared to its rivals. Its competitors, such as the Kia EV6 and the Scot Zenak 4, provide a longer range and a more premium feel.
Comfortable and Nippy
Despite its high price, the Solterra offers a comfortable and nippy driving experience. It performs well and provides enough space for passengers and their cargo. The interior is spacious and overall, it is a nice car to drive.
A Contender in a Different Category
If the price of the Solterra were lower, it could be seen as a contender in a slightly different category. Cars like the BYD AT 3 and the Aura Funky Cast UM offer a more premium feel at a lower price point, ranging from 35,000 to 40,000 Euro. At 51,000 Euro, the Solterra is quite expensive.
An Excellent Little Runabout
Despite the confusion about its positioning and price, the Solterra is an excellent little runabout. It is a great car for those who don’t do high mileage with heavy loads. It offers great visibility and has a decent dashboard and interior. It may not be anything special or unique, similar to Toyota models, but the entertainment features are something to love.
Conclusion
Subaru’s first EV, the Solterra, enters the market with promising features and performance. While it may not excel in certain aspects like long-range driving or fast home charging, the Solterra compensates with its adjustable regeneration, powerful performance, and off-road capabilities. If you are looking for an electric vehicle that offers a combination of practicality and versatility, the Solterra is certainly worth considering. Experience the future of Subaru with the Solterra, where sustainability meets driving excellence.