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Subaru Solterra: electric vehicle, range and what to know
The Subaru Solterra is Subaru’s first fully electric vehicle, co-developed with Toyota (related to the bZ4X). We look at the tech, range, trims and what to check when buying a used electric vehicle.
Solterra in brief
The Solterra is a mid-sized electric SUV launched in 2021 and on sale from 2022. It’s co-developed with the Toyota bZ4X, with Subaru contributing its all-wheel-drive expertise.
In terms of styling, the Solterra looks like a typical Subaru SUV: high ride height, generous ground clearance and a practical interior. One of its standout features is a spacious boot.
How to choose
There aren’t many used Solterras on the market yet, as it’s a new model. Key decisions include the drivetrain (in Europe, usually dual-motor all-wheel drive) and battery condition.
Some markets offer a front-wheel-drive version, but in Europe, all-wheel drive is more common. Before buying, check the version and year.
Battery, power and charging
The Solterra has around a 71 kWh battery pack, with the all-wheel-drive version featuring two motors producing around 218 hp. Real-world range depends on factors like temperature, speed and driving style, but the WLTP-rated range is several hundred kilometres.
The car can be charged from a home socket and with a fast DC charger, but it’s worth checking the actual charging speed and time for the specific car.
What to check when buying a used Solterra
Request a battery condition report and check if the car was mostly charged slowly or quickly. Also, verify if the seller updated the software.
Ensure all charging ports and sockets work, and that the heating and cooling systems operate without messages.
Check the valid warranty — electric vehicle batteries usually come with a separate, longer warranty.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market; we list the most commonly encountered trim level names.
Premium
from 2022Base trim for the US market.
- Often — 18-inch wheels
- Often — large multimedia screen
- All-wheel drive
Limited
from 2022Higher trim with more comfort features.
- Often — 20-inch wheels
- Often — heated seats
- Often — additional comfort equipment
Touring
from 2022Top trim with luxurious appointments.
- Often — the fullest comfort equipment
- Often — more luxurious interior trim
- Often — more advanced driver assistance systems
ET-SS
JapanBase Japanese specification.
- Often — smaller wheels
- Simpler equipment
- Often — front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive
ET-HS
JapanHigher Japanese specification.
- Often — larger wheels
- Often — enhanced safety equipment
- Often — more luxurious interior trim
Specification comparison
| Premium | Limited | Touring | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it suits | For everyday use | For comfort | Max spec |
| Wheels (most common) | 18 inch | 20 inch | 20 inch |
| Gearbox | Four-wheel drive | Four-wheel drive | Four-wheel drive |
| Interior | Standard | With heating | Luxury |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | Mid-range | High-end | High-end |
For most buyers, the base or mid-range trim will suffice. The key is not the trim level, but the condition of the battery and the actual towing capacity.
Pros
- Four-wheel drive and good off-road capability
- Spacious interior and boot
- Electric transmission — quiet and smooth
- Subaru's reputation for safety
Cons
- Few options on the used market
- Real-world range is lower in winter
- Charging speed isn't the best in class
Frequently asked questions
Is the Solterra the same car as the Toyota bZ4X?
Technically, they're very similar, as they were developed together. The design, some features, and certain trim details differ.
How far does the Solterra go on a charge?
The manufacturer quotes several hundred kilometres according to WLTP, but real-world range depends on temperature, speed, and driving style. Range is lower in winter.
Is the Solterra suitable for rural roads?
Yes — the high ground clearance and all-wheel drive help, but it's still an electric vehicle, so charging needs to be planned.
Updated 2026-10-17 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
