Subaru Solterra Is The Company's First Electric Model

After a glut of teasers over the past few weeks, Subaru has finally debuted their first EV, the Solterra crossover. It runs on a new e-Subaru global platform, which should underpin future Subaru EVs. It is heavily based on the Toyota bZ4x, which is Toyota's first dedicated electric crossover. You can find both vehicles at the Los Angeles Auto Show throughout this week.

The Subaru Solterra's name is a combination of the Latin words sun and earth to represent the model's commitment to sustainability. It has a standard Symmetrical AWD system that delivers smooth, capable performance in combination with Subaru's StarDrive tech. StarDrive provides instant torque at any speed, along with regenerable drive modes. The Solterra joins the rest of the Subaru SUV lineup in offering X-MODE, which brings improved output on rough terrains with low friction, and it has 8.3 inches of ground clearance. This EV also includes Grip Control technology, which is essentially Hill Ascent and Descent Assist. The powerful lithium-ion battery under the car creates 215 horsepower.

That high-capacity battery pack can be charged up "just about anywhere," including Level 2 AC and DC fast charging units. The Solterra can charge up to 80 percent in under an hour with DC fast charging. You can also purchase a home-charging system for your Solterra. Several mobile apps are compatible with the SUV's 12.3" touchscreen, and can help occupants find thousands of charging stations nationwide. The Subaru Solterra's estimated range reaches 220 miles.

Having an underfloor battery allows for a flat floor, which extends the roomy feel of this five-seater. Overall, there are 126 cubic feet of combined passenger and cargo space. Out of those 126 units, cargo space alone takes up 30 behind the 60/40 folding rear seatbacks. The cargo area has a two-position load floor, and a wide lift gate opening allows for easy access to the trunk. Excessive cargo can be secured onto the optional roof rails.

The Subaru Solterra offers tons of active driver assistance tech, through the brand's EyeSight technology. Standard features include a blind spot monitor, rear cross traffic alert, land change assist, and a parking support brake. The latter feature automatically hits the brakes when an obstacle is in the way, while the vehicle is reversing. A first-ever 360-degree surround view camera finally makes its way to a Subaru, as well as standard safe exit assist. The multi-element LED headlights include high beam assist, which slightly lowers the brightness for oncoming traffic. The comprehensive set of airbags includes driver- and passenger-side frontal and knee airbags, side curtain airbags, and side torso airbags.

The Solterra's interior has a modern, minimalistic design centered around a high-res 12.3-inch infotainment system. The touchscreen includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability, and even houses the climate controls. There is also an optional panoramic glass roof to promote the open design. There's also an available wireless charing port in the center console. The vehicle connects to Subaru's mobile app, which can remotely control the vehicle's temperature and lock/unlock. The Subaru Solterra is to arrive at dealers in mid-2022, and pricing should be announced by the end of this year.

Which is better: Subaru Solterra or Toyota bZ4x?

Images: Subaru