Subaru announced its entry into the EV arena with the 2023 Solterra, but with the new 2024 Subaru Solterra, the message is clear — they’ve got more up their sleeves! Keen on bringing its A-game to the EV arena, the Japanese carmaker updated the 2024 Solterra with a new steering shape, faster-charging capacity, and more tech features that enhance its performance—all without added costs.
Subaru’s new electric SUV is a product of the partnership between Subaru and Toyota and, therefore, features trademark inputs from both auto giants. While we feel the outlook needs some work, the Subie EV is more remarkable for its performance than appearance. Subaru prides the 2024 Solterra model as the most advanced SUV in their lineup. In spite of these claims, does the 2024 Solterra EV bring anything new to a market that already boasts best-value electric cars like the Hyundai Loniq 5 and Tesla Model Y? Here’s what we think.
Signature Design
The 2024 Solterra sports the signature rugged outlook common with Subaru cars. Its rugged front design looks a bit like RAV4’s but the black plastic coverings (its main undoing) make it look almost like Toyota BZX4. And since they were both co-designed by Subaru and Toyota, we understand why there aren’t many differences between the 2024 Subaru Solterra and Toyota BZX4.
On the outside, the Subaru Solterra is 184.6 inches long, with 73.2″ of width (without the mirrors) and 65.1″ of height. That’s about the same dimensions as most other compact SUVs. Solterra has a bold bodywork with an aerodynamic design to manage airflow and ensure silent drive. The underbody tray and C-shaped lights contribute to Solterra’s athletic build but not so much to its visual appeal. Hence, it can only pass as goodlooking in a category where Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5 set the standard of beauty.
Adequate Performance
Solterra operates on dual 107bhp motors that combine to deliver up to 215 horsepower and 249 lb-ft of torque, enough to go from 0 – 60 mph in 6.5 seconds. The electric crossover peaks at a top speed of 110 mph. Although it qualifies as quick, the 2024 Subie EV isn’t exactly a pretty fast car, especially for a compact SUV.
Despite its shortcomings, Solterra offers a comfy drive and an amazing body control. True to Subaru’s AWD culture, the Subaru electric SUV comes with a four-wheel drive and a Dual Function Mode Technology for adequate performance and easy traction on all terrains. In terms of off-road capability, the 2024 Solterra is one of the best value-for-money crossovers in its class.
Behind the wheel, Solterra feels secure to drive both on and off pavement. Handling is great, and it goes quietly through the winds on the highway. Its Cornering Assist System gives you a smooth navigation and stability in all driving situations. However, the EV doesn’t provide enough impact cushion so you might need to go gentle on bumps.
Fast Charging + Unique Cold Weather Charging
Solterra is powered by a 72.8 kWh Lithium-ion battery equipped to go from 10 to 80% in 30 minutes on a 100kWh charger. Weighed against cars with super-fast charging from 10 to 80% in about 18 minutes, the EV may not be the fastest out there. Regardless, thirty minutes is almost half the time it takes many SUVs in the same entry-price category. Moreover, it’s an improvement on the 2023 model, which takes up to 45 minutes.
Many EV owners report charging issues during winter but the Solterra Cold Weather Charging System protects against this. On a full charge, the Solterra can reach 227 miles (Premium trim). That’s also not mindblowing since many EVs in the same bracket can go further. Above all, the 2024 Solterra battery capacity and range are enough to take you around town. But if you’re planning on a trip outside the city, gear up for recharging breaks every three hours.
A Luxe Cabin
The Solterra interior is covered with a lush StarTex Upholstery that gives off the feeling of luxury. Its dashboard also gets a fine cloth trim, while the center stack and infotainment setup are finished with gloss. Subaru redesigned the 2024 model steering wheel into a ‘squarecular’ shape. Although it could take some time for drivers to master the new shape, it is great for handling in tight spaces.
Solterra’s front row features an aircraft-cockpit theme and provides more legroom (42.1″) and head space (38.8″) for the front seat occupants. Thanks to its wide back hatch, the EV back row equally has enough leg room (35.3″) and hip room (44.8″) to sit three adult occupants.In addition, the seats are power-operated, but heating and ventilation are available only in the Touring trim.
A Rich Infotainment System
Remarkably, the Solterra infotainment system starts with an 8-inch touchscreen display (12.3-inch wide on Touring trim) supported by strong connectivity and driver assist features. The Limited and Touring trims sport wireless charging. Some of the standard features include;
- Pandora
- Android Auto/Apple Car Play
- Satellite radio
- A voice-activated digital
The infotainment system on the 2024 Subaru Solterra is rich in tech features, but that’s also its undoing. It looks packed and requires more time to navigate. Add that to the wide horizontal screen potentially disturbed by glares, and drivers will need to spend more time staring into the screen while operating the infotainment system!
Pricing
The 2024 Subaru Solterra starts at $44,995 (Premium) and $51,995 (Touring). Considering its improvements, that sounds like a fair price. However, there are several competitors with more impressive range and charging times at similar entry prices. For one, Hyundai Ioniq 5 has an ultra-fast charging of 10 to 80% in 18 minutes and can go as far as 303 miles on a single charge.
In addition, the 2024 Solterra doesn’t qualify for federal tax credits. That’s a dampener, given that higher-performance rivals, including Tesla Model Y ($44,990 to $53,490) and Volkswagen ID.4 (up to $54,600), come with tax credits that significantly lower their prices. Regardless, the Subie EV is still a good buy for its AWD reliability and battery efficiency, which are best enjoyed on the Touring trim.
