Subaru's Current Electric Lineup

Subaru currently sells two fully electric models in the United States: the Solterra and the BRZ e-POWER (though the BRZ e-POWER is a plug-in hybrid, not fully electric). The Solterra is Subaru's main all-electric offering, a midsize SUV that seats five and comes in two trim levels. It launched in the U.S. market in 2023 and shares its platform with the Toyota bZ4X, though the Solterra has its own styling and interior design.

The Solterra comes with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, with the all-wheel-drive version offering dual motors. Battery options include a standard 71.4-kWh battery and an optional 81.5-kWh battery, which affects both driving range and price. Subaru has not announced plans to discontinue the Solterra, though production and availability vary by region and model year.

Subaru also offers the Crosstrek Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV), which has a small battery and gas engine working together. This is different from a fully electric vehicle but may interest buyers who want electric driving for daily commutes with gas backup for longer trips.

Key Takeaways

  • The Solterra is Subaru's only fully electric model currently sold in the U.S., available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
  • Two battery sizes are offered: a 71.4-kWh standard battery and an optional 81.5-kWh battery that increases range and price.
  • The Solterra's driving range varies by battery size and drivetrain, with EPA estimates ranging from roughly 220 to 280 miles depending on configuration.
  • The Crosstrek Plug-in Hybrid is available if you want electric driving for short trips but need a gas engine for longer distances.
  • Subaru's electric models come with standard all-wheel-drive capability on certain trims, which affects efficiency and winter performance.

Solterra Range, Battery, and Charging

The Solterra's EPA-estimated range depends on which battery and drivetrain you choose. The front-wheel-drive model with the standard 71.4-kWh battery reaches approximately 220 miles per charge. Stepping up to the larger 81.5-kWh battery extends that to around 250 miles. The all-wheel-drive versions have slightly lower range due to the extra motor and weight, typically around 210 miles with the smaller battery and 240 miles with the larger one. These are EPA estimates and real-world range varies based on driving conditions, temperature, and driving habits.

The Solterra supports DC fast charging, which can add roughly 200 miles of range in 30 minutes under ideal conditions, though actual charging speed depends on the charger's power output and the battery's state of charge. Home charging with a Level 2 charger (240-volt) takes roughly 8 to 10 hours for a full charge from empty, depending on the battery size. A standard 120-volt household outlet charges much more slowly and is not practical for regular use.

Subaru includes a portable charging cable with the Solterra, but you will need to purchase a home charging station separately if you want faster overnight charging. Many owners install a Level 2 charger at home, which costs between $500 and $2,000 installed, though some utility companies offer rebates.

Solterra Trim Levels and Pricing

The Solterra comes in two main trim levels: Standard and Limited. The Standard trim includes all-wheel drive, a 7.1-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Subaru's EyeSight Driver information Technology (adaptive cruise control and pre-collision warning). The Limited trim adds heated front seats, a larger 11.6-inch touchscreen, a power liftgate, and additional safety features.

Pricing varies by model year and region. As of 2024, the Solterra Standard starts in the mid-$40,000 range before any incentives, and the Limited trim runs several thousand dollars higher. These prices do not include destination charges, taxes, or dealer fees. Federal tax credits and state incentives may lower your actual cost, though may be able to access depends on your income, the vehicle's final assembly location, and your state's programs.

Subaru occasionally offers lease programs for the Solterra, which can be a lower-cost way to drive an electric vehicle if you prefer not to own one outright. Lease terms, monthly payments, and mileage allowances vary by dealer and current promotions.

Solterra Performance and Driving Experience

The Solterra accelerates smoothly and quietly, as electric vehicles do. The front-wheel-drive model produces 160 horsepower, while the all-wheel-drive version produces 228 horsepower total (one motor per axle). Acceleration is brisk but not sports-car quick—0 to 60 mph takes roughly 7 seconds for the front-wheel-drive version and about 6 seconds for all-wheel drive.

The Solterra handles like a typical midsize SUV: stable and composed on highways, with a higher seating position than a sedan. The electric motor's low center of gravity (batteries sit in the floor) helps with handling compared to gas SUVs of similar size. Regenerative braking—where the motor slows the vehicle and recaptures energy—is standard and can be adjusted through the infotainment system to feel more or less aggressive.

Winter driving is a consideration with any electric vehicle. Cold temperatures reduce range by 20 to 40 percent, and the Solterra's all-wheel-drive option provides better traction in snow and ice than front-wheel drive. Subaru's standard all-wheel drive on most trims is a practical choice if you live in a cold climate.

Subaru's Warranty and Support for Electric Models

The Solterra comes with Subaru's standard 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The battery itself is covered under an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty, which is longer than many competitors offer. This battery warranty covers defects and significant capacity loss (typically defined as losing more than 70 percent of original capacity), though normal degradation over time is not covered.

Subaru's dealer network can service the Solterra, though not every dealer has technicians trained on electric vehicles. Before purchasing, confirm that your local Subaru dealer has EV service capability or can refer you to one that does. Maintenance is simpler than gas vehicles—no oil changes, spark plugs, or transmission fluid—but tire rotations, brake fluid checks, and software updates are still needed.

Comparing Solterra to Other Electric SUVs

The Solterra competes with vehicles like the Tesla Model Y, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, and Volkswagen ID.4 in the midsize electric SUV category. The Solterra's main strengths are Subaru's reputation for reliability and all-wheel-drive standard on most trims. Its main trade-offs compared to competitors are slightly lower range on some configurations and a less extensive fast-charging network (Subaru relies on third-party networks rather than its own).

The Tesla Model Y offers longer range and faster acceleration but costs more and has a different warranty structure. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6 charge faster and have more interior space but are newer to the market with less long-term reliability data. The Volkswagen ID.4 is similarly priced and sized but has different technology and design priorities. Your choice depends on which features matter most to you: charging speed, range, interior space, technology, or brand reputation.

Charging Infrastructure and Ownership Costs

Owning a Solterra means planning around charging availability. Public charging networks include Electrify America, EVgo, ChargePoint, and others, with varying membership fees and per-kilowatt-hour costs. Some networks charge by time rather than energy, so faster charging can actually cost less. read the apps for networks in your area to compare prices and availability before purchasing.

Home charging is the most economical option if you have a driveway or garage. Charging overnight on a Level 2 charger typically costs $3 to $8 per full charge, depending on your local electricity rates. Public DC fast charging costs more—roughly $10 to $20 for a 200-mile charge—but is useful for road trips or when home charging is not available.

Insurance for the Solterra is generally comparable to gas SUVs of similar size, though some insurers charge slightly more for electric vehicles due to higher repair costs for battery-related damage. Maintenance costs are lower than gas vehicles because there is no oil, transmission fluid, or spark plugs to replace, but tire wear may be slightly higher due to the vehicle's weight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Solterra tow a trailer?

No, the Solterra is not rated for towing. If you need towing capacity, you would need to consider a plug-in hybrid like the Crosstrek PHEV or a gas-powered Subaru model. Some other electric SUVs do offer towing, so compare specifications if this is important to you.

How long does it take to charge a Solterra at home?

With a Level 2 charger (240-volt), a full charge takes roughly 8 to 10 hours depending on the battery size. A standard 120-volt outlet takes 24 to 48 hours for a full charge and is not practical for regular use. Most owners install a Level 2 charger at home for overnight charging.

What is the difference between the Solterra and the Crosstrek Plug-in Hybrid?

The Solterra is fully electric with no gas engine, while the Crosstrek PHEV has both a small battery and a gas engine. The PHEV can drive on electric power alone for short distances (typically 40 to 50 miles) but switches to gas for longer trips. Choose the Solterra if you charge at home regularly; choose the PHEV if you want gas backup for longer drives.

Does the Solterra may have access to for the federal tax credit?

The Solterra may may have access to for the federal tax credit, but may be able to access depends on your income, the vehicle's final assembly location, and the battery's mineral sourcing. Check the IRS website or speak with your dealer about your specific situation, as rules change and not all configurations may have access to.

Is the Solterra available in all states?

The Solterra is sold nationwide, but availability varies by dealer and model year. Some dealers may have longer wait times or limited inventory. Contact your local Subaru dealer to confirm current availability and delivery timelines.