The 2026 Subaru SolterraSubaruDon't look now, but Subaru has grown into a leading producer of electric vehicles. Thanks to teaming with Toyota on a partnership that spawned EVs for both companies, Subaru now finds itself with four new and competitive electrics. With the brand's rugged outdoorsy vibes and hallmark safety features, Subaru's EVs complement its gasoline models to form its most ambitious lineup ever. Right in the middle of that sits the 2026 Subaru Solterra, an attractive crossover with a nice interior, edgy styling and plenty of range.I spent a week in the Solterra Touring XT model, which starts at $47,005, including destination charges. Refreshed for the 2026 model year, the Solterra has updated styling, more power and more range, along with the ability to use Tesla's North American Charging Standard ports.It's a significant refresh that makes the Solterra more competitive against EVs from Chevy, Kia, Hyundai and Toyota, and the updates differentiate the Solterra within Subaru's electric lineup. Let's break down the 2026 Subaru Solterra.2026 Subaru Solterra Touring XT : A Classy, Quirky InteriorSubaru SolterraThe inside is pretty cool-looking with a ledge-like dashboard. There's a fair amount of space between the windshield and the instrument panel, which creates a greenhouse appearance. My test Solterra Touring XT came in a purplish blue and black motif inside, which made for a chic setting.AdvertisementAdvertisementRight away I noticed the squared-off steering wheel, which levels out in front of the driver's line of sight, enabling a clear view of the head-up display in front. The 14-inch multimedia touchscreen sits to the right of the driver and is reasonably easy to use.There's two large chargers right in the middle of the dash, along with the shift knob. Two cupholders sit above the console, which opens both ways so either the passenger or the driver can access it equally easily. A panoramic sunroof lets in pleasing light, especially for early morning drives.Subaru's interiors have gotten considerably better in the last decade, especially in the upper trims, which often use soft touch materials and have details like stitching and accents. This Solterra Touring XT had heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel and heated rear seats. It's like Subaru knows its vehicles go places, like hiking and camping, where you need to take the chill off following your adventures. I didn't get a chance to sample Subaru's radiant leg warmers, as I tested the Solterra during Michigan's scorching summers, but I look forward to giving the feature a try this fall on other models.The hatch is truly cavernous. I put a week's worth of groceries back there with plenty of space left over.Taking a Spin in the 2026 Subaru Solterra2026 Subaru SolterraIt's easy to get comfy in the Solterra. The driver has good visibility thanks to the thin A-pillars and a solid seating position, even though the dashboard is expansive and the hood feels long. I found the corners of the car and it was no trouble to park or maneuver around town.AdvertisementAdvertisementSubaru upgraded the propulsion system for 2026, and the Solterra Touring XT had 338 horsepower with a range of up to 288 miles before needing to recharge. It's a quick car, sprinting to 60 miles per hour in less than five seconds, powered by the immediate torque the electric powertrain delivers and Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. It's mind-blowing to think a Subaru compact crossover is faster than many exotic sports cars from just a generation ago.That makes it a great around-town runner. A small, fast car that's easy to drive? Hell yes. I never lost a stop-light battle or worried about finding space when changing lanes. The Solterra had more than enough power to create openings, and it's diminutive enough to fill them without stress. Subaru refined the suspension and electric power steering for the new model, and it shows. The Solterra is poised and responsive through turns and comfortable even over Michigan's pothole-strewn roads.I like the Solterra's design. It has a sleek profile, angled fenders and prominent lines. It almost looks like a Lexus. You can get a two-tone paint combo with black front fenders or opt for a single-color scheme. If it were my money, I'd go for the two-tone. Subaru also tweaked the headlights, front bumper and rear spoiler for 2026.My Verdict on the 2026 Subaru SolterraSubaru updated the headlights for 2026.I like it a lot. It has a cool cabin, interesting technology and is crazy quick. The electric range is more than competitive and despite sharing so many genetics with its platform mate, the Toyota BZ, it has a Subaru vibe and real character. That said, the larger Subaru Trailseeker is only slightly more expensive and offers more space. Plus, I like the Trailseeker's station wagon shape. You may not, in which case a sporty compact crossover like the Subaru Solterra is the right EV for you. If that's the case, it's a strong execution and a good deal fun to drive.This article was originally published on Forbes.com
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