Subaru gives us a tour of its first dedicated EV.
Better late than never, Subaru is joining the electric car revolution with the Solterra, the Japanese automaker’s first dedicated EV. Co-developed with Toyota, the Solterra shares the same platform as the Toyota bZ4X. After America’s Solterra debuted at the LA Auto Show last month, Subaru has lifted the wraps off the European version in an extensive 25-minute walkaround video presented by Subaru Europe's David Dello Stritto, giving us a closer look at the electric SUV.
Styling-wise, Europe’s Solterra looks identical to its US counterpart, featuring short front and rear overhangs, flared fenders, Subaru’s signature hexagonal grille, and C-shaped LED headlights. 20-inch wheels are fitted as standard.
At 184.6 inches long, 65 inches wide, and 73.2 inches high with a 112.2-inch wheelbase, the Solterra is slightly larger than the Forester. In Europe, the Solterra is powered by a 71.4 kWh lithium-ion battery and two electric motors, with one on the front axle and one at the rear providing a permanent all-wheel-drive system. The US Solterra will come with AWD as standard too, but the Japanese version will also be available with FWD.
Combined, the two electric motors generate 215 horsepower and 248-lb-ft of torque, matching the US model's output. No performance specifications were revealed for the US version at the time, but Subaru has confirmed the European Solterra will hit 0-60 mph in 7.4 seconds.
As for range, Subaru says the driving range “shouldn't be too far from the 400-kilometer mark” on a single charge which is around 248 miles. For comparison, Subaru estimates the US version will manage about 220 miles on a single charge based on tougher EPA estimates. It will also retain 90 percent of its battery capacity for ten years according to Subaru. Using a DC fast charger, the battery can be charged up to 80 percent in 30 minutes.
Inside, the interior is dominated by a central 12.3-inch display, while the reduced number of physical buttons and switches creates an “open, relaxing, uncluttered space.” With up to 30.3 cubic feet of loading capacity for the US-spec model, there's room in the trunk for three large suitcases or four golf bags. The Solterra is scheduled to go on sale in mid-2022.
Keyword: Take A Closer Look At The 2023 Subaru Solterra