Quick Take: 2023 Subaru Solterra
Going on sale later this year, the Solterra is Subaru’s first dedicated electric vehicle to be sold across the world. With Subaru’s customers known for their propensity to venture into the wilderness off the beaten path as well as their focus on preserving the environment, the Solterra as a zero-emissions vehicle is catered towards them. This week we managed to get an opportunity to try out the Solterra for ourselves, and after some time behind the wheel on the roads of Northern California, we think numerous Subaru owners will become converts.
As a Subaru, all Solterras come with all-wheel-drive like our test vehicle did. The electric powertrain delivers 215 horsepower, while a 72.8 kWh lithium-ion battery can provide the Solterra with up to 228 miles of range on a full charge. We drove the Solterra up and down Highway 1 as well as on the winding back roads of Half Moon Bay. Though the Solterra has a ground clearance of 8.3 inches, handling was similar to most other compact SUVs that the Solterra is similar in size to. In addition, ride comfort was superb, with supportive seats that could accommodate people on long trips. Furthermore, owners who travel off the pavement will appreciate the aforementioned ground clearance and an X-MODE system that helps with grip in rough conditions.
The Solterra we drove was the base Premium trim level version, though it was very well-equipped with features such as the EyeSight suite of driver assistance technologies, 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, a blind spot monitor, heated front seats, LED headlights, and an infotainment system with an 8-inch screen screen as well as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Other standard features included a parking support brake system with rear cross-traffic alert, rear seat reminder system, safe exit assist, Level 2 AC and DC fast charging capability.
All in all, we think the Solterra will be very hard to obtain once it arrives in dealerships later this year and we were glad to experience it ahead of time. With the combination of a comfortable driving experience, ability to venture off paved roads, and zero-emissions, the Solterra will be a winner in the current automotive market and will help increase EV adoption further.
