- How the 2023 Subaru Solterra’s range compares to competitors
- Is Subaru doing anything to address range concerns?
- An overview of the 2023 Subaru Solterra
Subaru has finally built an all-electric vehicle for the masses. Like other models from the Japanese automaker, the 2023 Subaru Solterra is a capable all-wheel-drive crossover. However, the Solterra might disappoint consumers in one crucial area: range. Here’s a look at the 2023 Subaru Solterra and its lackluster range.
How the 2023 Subaru Solterra’s range compares to competitors
2023 Subaru Solterra | Subaru of America, Inc.
According to Consumer Reports, the standard Solterra gets a maximum of 228 miles of range on a full charge. But some Solterra trims get even less range. The Limited and Touring models can go only 222 miles. These range numbers are below average when compared to similar electric SUVs.
For example, the Ford Mustang Mach-E is one of the most popular electric SUVs, and it can get up to 305 miles on a full charge. And, of course, there’s Tesla. The Model Y can get about 326 miles. These models are near the top in range, but other EVs can go farther on a full charge than the Solterra.
For instance, the EV version of the Kia Niro gets about 239 miles. The Volkswagen ID.4 can go about 260 miles. And the Jaguar I-Pace gets around 253 miles.
Although the Solterra’s range is below average, it’s not at the bottom. The Volvo XC40 Recharge can go only 208 miles. Plus, a few other EVs, such as the Audi e-tron, get roughly the same range as the Solterra.
Is Subaru doing anything to address range concerns?
Subaru knows its customers well, and though it designed the Solterra for off-roading and adventuring, those activities are pretty hard to do when your car can go only 228 miles before needing a recharge. The automaker has gotten ahead of the curve by offering an incentive to prospective buyers.
According to Consumer Reports, “Customers who lease or purchase a Solterra will receive up to 10 days of free Subaru rentals from their participating dealerships, enabling them to choose a gasoline-powered vehicle for road trips or other needs.”
Those 10 days of free rentals should be enough for families who go on vacation once a year. However, although this is an attractive perk, it’s not a permanent solution.
An overview of the 2023 Subaru Solterra
Devising a more permanent range solution would behoove Subaru, which has priced the Solterra shockingly high for its class. When it goes on sale this summer, the EV will start at just over $48,000. That makes it more expensive than many rivals, including ones with much better range, such as the Tesla Model Y. But the good news is that the Solterra is eligible for the federal EV tax credit, offsetting the purchase price.
And though this Subie is expensive for an EV with lackluster range, the 2023 Solterra comes with some neat features that might make it worthwhile.
According to Consumer Reports, the Solterra can off-road thanks to its 8.3 inches of ground clearance and its standard AWD. It won’t be a super-powerful EV, though. It has two electric motors, but they generate only 215 hp and 249 lb-ft of torque total.
However, the 2023 Subaru Solterra offers a high-quality interior. Features include a 12.3-inch touchscreen display and advanced safety features such as a 360-degree camera.
Keyword: 2023 Subaru Solterra Electric SUV: What Is the Range for This New EV?