After just the right amount of teasing, previews and the official unveiling of the Japanese model last week, Subaru finally showed the North American what its Solterra electric SUV will look like.
This new addition to the Subaru family is the first fully electric vehicle from the Japanese brand. It shares its platform and most of its design cues with the new Toyota BZ4X BEV, but adds a few signature Subaru elements such as additional body cladding a slightly different fascia and Subaru emblems.
Like with most new EVs on the road, the Solterra uses high-capacity battery packs positioned under the floor to enhance structure rigidity and provide a low centre of gravity.
Since the Subaru brand is known for its advancements in the all-wheel-drive department, the Solterra is fitted with a new system that drives the front and rear wheels with separate electric motors. And just like its siblings, it uses an electric-adapted version of X-MODE AWD control system with a new Grip Control function, which helps stability at high speed on rough roads.
Performance and Range
The Subaru Solterra powers its electric motors using a 71.4-kWh battery. The manufacturer gave it a target range of 460-530 kilometres based on the WLTP standard. Official EPA numbers should rank at around 400 kilometres.
The Subaru Solterra should hit North American dealerships later in 2022.