What Subaru electric vehicles are currently available

Subaru currently sells one fully electric vehicle in the United States: the Solterra, a midsize SUV that launched for the 2023 model year. The Solterra is Subaru's answer to competitors like the Tesla Model Y and Volkswagen ID.4, built on a dedicated electric platform shared with Toyota's bZ4X.

Subaru also offers the Crosstrek Hybrid, which is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) rather than fully electric. It combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor and a rechargeable battery, letting you drive on electric power alone for short trips before the gas engine kicks in. The Crosstrek Hybrid has been available since 2023 and appeals to buyers who want electric capability without the charging infrastructure concerns of a fully electric vehicle.

Beyond these two, Subaru's current U.S. lineup remains primarily gasoline-powered. The company has announced plans to expand its electric offerings in coming years, but as of now, the Solterra is the only all-electric option.

Key Takeaways

  • The Solterra is Subaru's only fully electric vehicle currently sold in the United States, available as a midsize SUV with two trim levels and all-wheel drive as standard.
  • The Crosstrek Hybrid is a plug-in hybrid that can run on battery power alone for roughly 40 miles before the gas engine engages, making it useful for daily commutes without requiring a dedicated charger.
  • Solterra pricing starts in the mid-$40,000 range before incentives, with federal tax credits and state rebates potentially lowering the actual cost depending on where you live.
  • Both vehicles come with Subaru's standard all-wheel drive system, which is a distinguishing feature compared to some competitors that charge extra for it.
  • Charging infrastructure and your typical driving distance should guide your choice between the fully electric Solterra and the plug-in hybrid Crosstrek.

Solterra specifications and driving range

The Solterra comes in two trim levels: Standard and Limited. Both use the same 71.4-kilowatt-hour battery and dual electric motors that produce 228 horsepower. All-wheel drive is standard across both trims, which sets it apart from some competitors that offer front-wheel drive as a base option.

EPA-estimated range is 228 miles on a full charge for both trims. This falls in the middle of the midsize electric SUV category—not the longest range available, but sufficient for most daily driving and weekend trips. Real-world range varies based on weather, driving habits, and terrain, with cold temperatures typically reducing range by 20 to 40 percent.

The Solterra charges at home using a Level 2 charger (240 volts), which takes roughly 8 to 10 hours for a full charge from empty. On a DC fast charger at a public station, you can add about 200 miles in roughly 30 minutes. Subaru includes a basic 120-volt charger with purchase, but most owners install a dedicated Level 2 charger at home for practical daily use.

Crosstrek Hybrid: plug-in hybrid option

The Crosstrek Hybrid pairs a 2.0-liter gasoline engine with an electric motor and a 13.6-kilowatt-hour battery. It produces 181 horsepower combined and can travel roughly 40 miles on battery power alone before the gas engine activates. This electric-only range covers most daily commutes, meaning many owners can drive to work and back without using gasoline on typical days.

When the battery depletes, the vehicle switches seamlessly to hybrid mode, where the gas engine and electric motor work together for efficiency. The total driving range (electric plus gas) exceeds 400 miles, so you are not limited by charging infrastructure the way a fully electric vehicle owner might be.

The Crosstrek Hybrid requires a Level 2 charger for practical home charging, taking roughly 5 to 6 hours to fully charge the battery. You can also charge from a standard 120-volt outlet, though this takes significantly longer. Unlike the Solterra, the Crosstrek Hybrid does not need public charging stations for most owners—the gas engine provides a fallback for longer trips.

Pricing and available incentives

Solterra pricing begins around $43,000 for the Standard trim and rises to approximately $47,000 for the Limited trim, before any incentives or taxes. Prices vary by region and dealer, and Subaru occasionally runs promotions on remaining inventory.

The federal tax credit for electric vehicles can reduce the price by up to $7,500 if you meet income and vehicle assembly requirements. Many states offer additional rebates—California, New York, and Colorado have their own programs, though amounts and rules differ. Some utilities also offer rebates for home charger installation. Check your state's energy office or the fueleconomy.gov website for current incentives in your area.

The Crosstrek Hybrid starts around $35,000 for the base trim, making it less expensive than the Solterra. Plug-in hybrids typically receive smaller federal tax credits than fully electric vehicles—usually $3,750 to $4,375—and fewer state incentives overall.

Charging infrastructure and home setup

If you own a Solterra, access to home charging is important. A Level 2 charger installed at your residence costs between $500 and $2,500 depending on your electrical panel and whether you need new wiring. Many utilities and state programs offer rebates that cover part of this cost. Without home charging, you rely on public DC fast chargers, which are less convenient for daily use.

Public charging networks like Electrify America, EVgo, and ChargePoint operate across most of the country, though availability varies by region. Urban and suburban areas typically have denser networks, while rural areas may have significant gaps. Apps like PlugShare let you map chargers near your home and along common routes before purchasing.

Crosstrek Hybrid owners benefit from more flexibility. Home charging is still convenient for daily use, but the gas engine means you are not dependent on it. This makes the Crosstrek Hybrid a practical choice if you live in an apartment without dedicated parking or in an area with limited public charging.

Solterra versus Crosstrek Hybrid: which fits your situation

Choose the Solterra if you have reliable home charging access, drive mostly within 200 miles of home, and want zero tailpipe emissions. It is also the better choice if you drive frequently and want to minimize fuel costs—electricity is cheaper per mile than gasoline in most areas. The Solterra's all-wheel drive and Subaru's reputation for reliability appeal to buyers in snowy or mountainous regions.

Choose the Crosstrek Hybrid if you lack home charging, take frequent longer road trips, or want the flexibility of a gas engine without paying for a fully electric vehicle. It is also a good fit if you want to reduce fuel consumption and emissions on daily commutes while keeping the option to drive across the country without planning charging stops. The lower starting price makes it accessible to more buyers.

Both vehicles come with Subaru's standard all-wheel drive, which is a practical advantage in regions with winter weather. Neither vehicle offers the longest range in its category, but both are competitive for typical American driving patterns.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The Solterra is may be able to access for the federal tax credit of up to $7,500, but you must meet income limits and the vehicle must be assembled in North America. Income limits are $300,000 for joint filers and $150,000 for single filers. You claim the credit on your tax return, though some dealers offer point-of-sale credits that reduce the purchase price when ready.

Can I charge a Crosstrek Hybrid with a regular outlet?

Yes, the Crosstrek Hybrid comes with a 120-volt charger that plugs into any standard outlet. Charging from empty takes roughly 24 to 30 hours, so it is impractical for daily use. A Level 2 charger (240 volts) is recommended if you charge at home regularly.

What is the difference between the Solterra and Toyota bZ4X?

The Solterra and bZ4X share the same platform and battery options, but the Solterra is Subaru-branded with Subaru's interior design and infotainment system. The bZ4X offers a front-wheel-drive option, while the Solterra is all-wheel drive only. Pricing and warranty terms differ slightly between the two brands.

How long does a Solterra battery last?

Subaru warrants the Solterra battery for eight years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. Real-world battery degradation is typically 2 to 3 percent per year, meaning most owners see minimal range loss over the warranty period. Batteries often outlast the warranty, though replacement costs are high if needed after coverage ends.

Is the Crosstrek Hybrid worth it over a regular Crosstrek?

The Crosstrek Hybrid costs roughly $5,000 to $7,000 more than a standard gasoline Crosstrek. If you drive 12,000 miles annually and have access to home charging, the fuel savings typically recover this difference within five to seven years. The choice depends on your budget, driving habits, and how much you value lower emissions on daily commutes.