Subaru's current electric car offerings and what they cost
Subaru sells one fully electric vehicle in the United States: the Solterra, a three-row SUV that started production in 2023. The base model begins around $48,000 before any federal tax credits or state incentives, though pricing varies by trim level and your location. Subaru also makes the Crosstrek Plug-in Hybrid, which has a small battery and gas engine working together, but that is not a fully electric car.
The Solterra comes in Standard and Limited trims. The Standard model has a smaller battery (71.4 kWh) and front-wheel drive, while the Limited adds all-wheel drive and a larger battery (82 kWh). Real-world range depends on driving conditions, but Subaru rates the Standard at around 228 miles per charge and the Limited at around 228 miles as well, with all-wheel-drive models slightly lower due to added weight.
Pricing and availability can shift year to year, so check Subaru's official website or contact a dealer for current costs in your area. Some states offer additional rebates on top of the federal tax credit, which can lower your actual cost significantly.
Key Takeaways
- The Solterra is Subaru's only fully electric vehicle sold in the U.S., available in Standard and Limited trims with different battery sizes and drive types.
- Base pricing starts around $48,000 before federal tax credits or state incentives, which can reduce your out-of-pocket cost.
- The Solterra is built on a dedicated electric platform shared with Toyota, meaning it uses Toyota's battery technology and charging architecture.
- Charging at home on a Level 2 charger takes roughly 8 to 11 hours for a full charge, depending on the battery size.
- Subaru's dealer network can handle service and warranty claims, though not all dealers have technicians trained on electric vehicles yet.
How the Solterra's battery and range work in real conditions
The Solterra uses a lithium-ion battery pack developed jointly by Subaru and Toyota. The Standard model's 71.4 kWh battery and the Limited's 82 kWh battery are both mounted low in the vehicle's floor, which lowers the center of gravity and improves handling compared to some competitors.
EPA-estimated range is around 228 miles for the Standard and slightly less for the Limited all-wheel-drive version due to the extra motor and weight. Real-world range depends on temperature, driving style, and terrain. Cold weather reduces range by 20 to 40 percent, so if you live in a cold climate, plan for shorter trips in winter. Highway driving at high speeds also cuts range more than city driving.
The battery comes with an 8-year, 100,000-mile warranty in most states, though some states have longer coverage. Subaru does not publish degradation rates, but industry data suggests these batteries retain 80 to 90 percent of capacity after 8 years of normal use.
Charging options and what to expect at home and on the road
At home, you can charge the Solterra on a standard 120-volt outlet (Level 1), but this adds only 2 to 3 miles of range per hour and is impractical for daily use. A Level 2 charger (240 volts) is the standard home setup and adds roughly 25 to 30 miles of range per hour. A full charge on Level 2 takes 8 to 11 hours depending on battery size.
For road trips, the Solterra uses a CCS connector (Combined Charging System), which is the standard in North America. DC fast charging at public stations can add 200 miles in roughly 30 to 40 minutes under ideal conditions, though real-world times vary. The Solterra is compatible with most major charging networks, including Electrify America, EVgo, and ChargePoint, though you will need separate apps or memberships for each.
Subaru does not provide a home charger with the vehicle, so you will need to purchase and install one separately. Installation costs range from $500 to $2,500 depending on your home's electrical panel and distance from the garage. Some states and utilities offer rebates for home charger installation.
Subaru's warranty and what happens if something breaks
The Solterra comes with a standard 3-year, 36,000-mile basic warranty that covers most components. The battery and electric drivetrain have an extended 8-year, 100,000-mile warranty, which is longer than many competitors offer. This covers defects in the battery, motor, and charging system.
Subaru's dealer network handles repairs and warranty claims. However, not all Subaru dealers have technicians trained on electric vehicles yet, so you may need to travel to a larger dealer for complex electrical work. Call ahead before scheduling service to confirm the dealer has EV-trained staff.
Maintenance is simpler than gas cars because there is no oil, transmission fluid, or spark plugs to service. You will still need tire rotations, brake fluid checks, and cabin air filter replacements. Regenerative braking means brake pads last much longer than in traditional cars.
How the Solterra compares to other three-row electric SUVs
The Solterra competes directly with the Tesla Model X, Volkswagen ID.Buzz, and Kia EV9 in the three-row electric SUV category. The Model X starts higher in price but offers more range and faster acceleration. The EV9 is newer and offers similar range at a lower starting price. The ID.Buzz is smaller and more focused on interior space than cargo.
The Solterra's main advantages are Subaru's reputation for reliability, all-wheel-drive standard on higher trims, and a more traditional SUV design if you prefer that over futuristic styling. Its main drawbacks compared to competitors are lower maximum range and slower DC fast charging speeds.
If you are deciding between brands, test drive the Solterra alongside competitors to see which interior layout and driving feel suit you best. Range and charging speed matter less if you mostly drive locally, but matter more if you take frequent long trips.
What to know about federal tax credits and state incentives
The Solterra qualifies for the federal Electric Vehicle Tax Credit of up to $7,500 if you meet income and vehicle price limits. As of 2024, the credit phases out for individuals earning over $300,000 and married couples earning over $600,000. The vehicle's final assembly location and battery component sourcing also affect may be able to access, so confirm with Subaru or your dealer that your specific model qualifies.
Many states offer additional rebates or tax credits on top of the federal credit. California, New York, Colorado, and others have their own programs with varying amounts and rules. Some states offer point-of-sale rebates that reduce the price at the dealership, while others are tax credits you claim when you file taxes.
Check your state's energy office or environmental agency website for current programs. Incentives change frequently, so what was available last year may not be available this year, and new programs may have opened.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I tow a trailer with the Solterra?
Yes, the Solterra has a 1,500-pound towing capacity, which is lower than many gas SUVs. Towing reduces range significantly because of the extra weight and wind resistance, so plan for 20 to 30 percent less range when towing. Check your specific trim's towing capacity before purchasing a trailer.
What happens to the battery if I live in a very hot or very cold climate?
Cold weather reduces range by 20 to 40 percent because the battery is less efficient and you use energy to heat the cabin. Hot climates are less of a problem, though extreme heat can slightly reduce battery lifespan over many years. The battery management system actively cools or heats the pack to protect it, so you do not need to do anything special.
Is the Solterra available in all states?
Subaru sells the Solterra nationwide, but availability at individual dealers varies. Some dealers may have long wait lists or limited inventory. Contact your local Subaru dealer to check current availability and estimated delivery times.
Can I charge the Solterra at Tesla Superchargers?
Not yet. Tesla Superchargers use a different connector (NACS), and the Solterra uses CCS. Subaru has announced plans to add NACS compatibility to future models, but current Solterra vehicles cannot use Tesla's network without an adapter, which is not yet widely available.
How does the Solterra's all-wheel drive affect range and cost?
All-wheel drive adds a second motor and increases weight, which reduces range by roughly 10 to 15 miles compared to front-wheel drive. It also costs more upfront. All-wheel drive is standard on the Limited trim and not available on the Standard, so you cannot add it as an option.