2025 Subaru Solterra review
Subaru’s first electric vehicle, the Solterra crossover SUV, shares its basic design with the Toyota bZ, which was originally called the bZ4X. Like the bZ4X, the Solterra disappointed when it was released for the 2023 model year, with mediocre horsepower from a pair of motors that provided standard all-wheel drive. A 2026 update gives the Solterra more range, thanks mostly to improved efficiency, along with more power. The Solterra seats five and comes with a comprehensive set of standard driver-assist features.
Explore the evolution of the Subaru Solterra
Get our expert take on used Subaru Solterra models, or view year-by-year changes.
First generation Subaru Solterra
Subaru partnered with Toyota to develop its first electric vehicle. Subaru got the Solterra crossover SUV and Toyota got the bZ4X, which is called the bZ as of the 2026 model year.
At launch, the Solterra came with two motors that had only modest horsepower and standard all-wheel drive. The 72.8-kWh battery gave it an also-disappointing 228 miles of range.
Charging was unimpressive as well, as it could DC fast charge at up to only 100 kW, and that required 56 minutes to go from 10% to 80%. It did, however, have some off-road capability thanks to 8.3 inches of ground clearance and an X-Mode to tailor the vehicle systems to different types of terrain.Things change for the better for the 2026 model year. The battery increases only slightly in size to 74.7 kWh, but many new efficiencies unlock 288 miles of range.
The base powertrain adds a few horses, and much more power is newly available with a step-up powertrain in the XT trim. It can now charge at up to 150 kW.The Solterra works for families with seating for five and a healthy list of standard driver-assist features. Only a surround-view camera system is optional.
Model highlights
Subaru’s first electric vehicle built as a twin of the Toyota bZ4X
Launched with a 72.8-kWh battery and 228 miles of range
Launched with standard all-wheel drive and only adequate horsepower
Up to 288 miles of range with 2026 update
More power for base powertrain for 2026
Newly available high-output powertrain in XT trim for 2026
Changes by year
Latest generation from 2023 - present
2026 Subaru Solterra
Highlights
Midcycle update
Now up to 288 miles of range
Slightly larger battery
More power for base model
More powerful powertrain for XT trim
Larger 14-inch standard touchscreen
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2025 Subaru Solterra
Highlights
Price lowered substantially
Top Touring trim added Onyx Edition styling package
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2024 Subaru Solterra
Highlights
Faster charging times
Limited hands-free driving capability offered
Roof rails made standard
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2023 Subaru Solterra
Highlights
All-new electric crossover SUV sibling of the Toyota bZ4X
72.8-kWh battery good for modest 228 miles of range
Two electric motors but mediocre power
Eight-inch and 12.3-inch touchscreens
Lots of standard driver-assist features
8.3 inches of ground clearance and X-Mode for off-roading
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Kirk Bell has been an automotive journalist since 2001, doing stints at Motor Authority, MSN Autos, and Consumer Guide. He's currently a freelance journalist with an interest in luxury and performance cars.
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