The 2023 Subaru Solterra is Subaru’s First Global Electric Vehicle.
Much of it is shared with the new Toyota bZ4X
Recently revealed, the all-new all-electric 2023 Subaru Solterra is another brainchild birthed from the combination of Subaru and Toyota’s joint efforts. The Solterra will join a growing field of small electric SUVs that will include the upcoming Toyota bZ4X.
What’s New About The New 2023 Subaru Solterra?
Everything about the Solterra is new. It rides on the new e-Subaru Global Platform which the Japanese automaker claims is extremely rigid and that should provide pleasing driving dynamics.
2023 Subaru Solterra (Japan) | Photo: Subaru
The new Solterra, and its Toyota bZ4X twin, are similar in size to the current Toyota RAV4. When can therefore expect generous interior dimensions and a large capacious trunk. Both the Toyota and Subaru look alike on the outside however the Solterra features a fascia that is quickly identifiable as a vehicle from the brand thanks to its headlights and hexagon grille.
The cabins are slightly different as well. The Subaru, like the Toyota, holds a recessed instrument panel that is flanked by a large horizontal (as opposed to vertical as in most other Subarus) touchscreen display.
Powering the FWD version of the Solterra (and bZ4x) is a 150-kilowatt (201 horsepower) motor on the front axle. The AWD versions will get two 80-kW motors for a total of 215 horsepower. AWD versions will get Subaru’s trademark X-Mode AWD control system for improved off-road capabilities.
The single- or dual-motor vehicles will be fed by a 71.4 kWh lithium-ion battery. Range is currently set at 500 km WLTC (Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Cycle, typically more generous than EPA numbers) for FWD versions and 460 km for AWD ones. This battery will be capable of 150 kW quick charging enable a 5%-80% charge in 30 minutes.
When Does The 2023 Subaru Solterra Arrive On The Market?
The 2023 Subaru Solterra is expected to arrive midway through 2022 in North America. The Toyota bZ4X should arrive at the same time.
How Much Will The 2023 Subaru Solterra Cost?
Pricing is not yet known. However, based on the current pricing trend, we can assume that at least one version will be priced just under $45,000 (possibly as low as $40k) in Canada in order to qualify for Federal and Provincial incentives. US pricing should land in the low- to mid-$30k range for the base models.
Who Does The 2023 Subaru Solterra Compete With?
The new Soltera will face off against numerous foes. As pricing is not yet known, it may compete against the likes of the Toyota bZ4X, Chevrolet Bolt EUV, the Hyundai Kona EV, Ioniq 5, the Kia EV6, Kia Soul EV, and the Kia Niro EV. As the Soltera is more crossover than SUV, this list seems logical. However, again price and trim dependent, the Volkswagen ID.4, Nissan Aryia, and Ford Mustang Mach E could come into play.
What Do We Think of The 2023 Subaru Solterra?
The cladding is what pops the most. To some, depending on the angle, the Solterra looks like a racoon. But then, so does the Toyota bZ4X. We believe that both the Subaru and Toyota twins will do well enough if mostly because seven or eight months from now, offerings in the segment will still be relatively limited. This is relevant when compared to the current selection of compact ICE SUVs available today.
Based on the specifications, the Subaru Solterra should be pleasant enough to drive and capable enough as a mild off-roader. If anything, Subaru got the way-better name. How terrible and difficult is to say “bZ4X”?
2023 Subaru Solterra teaser | Photo: Subaru
2023 Subaru Solterra (Japan) | Photo: Subaru
2023 Subaru Solterra (Japan) | Photo: Subaru
