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The automotive industry is changing radically these days and the Japanese manufacturer is one of the best examples. This company has always been known for excellent mechanics and a pretty conservative approach regarding design solutions and technologies. However, the newest model in the lineup is nothing we used from Subaru. It is an all-electric vehicle called the 2023 Subaru Solterra, which was co-developed with Toyota and which introduces Subaru to the world of all-electric cars.
Of course, the new model is a crossover, a compact one. It comes with a pretty futuristic design, both outside and inside, while the new powertrain promises decent performance. At the same time, the company keeps off-road potential at a decent level, which isn’t always the case with new EV models. We also like the new interior, which looks very attractive and comes with a full load of tech features.
The new model is already available on the market, with a starting price of around 46.000 dollars.
2023 Subaru Solterra Design
As we already mentioned, Subaru’s first all-electric vehicle was developed jointly with Toyota. So, it’s no surprise that this crossover actually rides on the e-TNGA platform and that most parts are shared with Toyota bZ4X. Moreover, the two models are pretty much identical in terms of mechanics. The exterior dimensions are also pretty much the same, while the main difference is in styling, where Soltera takes a little bit more conventional and, we would say, more elegant approach.
The 2023 Subaru Solterra offers a very smooth and comfortable ride, but it doesn’t lack athleticism. Also, it offers decent off-road performance for an electric crossover. You may count on 8.7 inches of ground clearance, while there are also aids like grip control, hill ascent, hill descent assist and X-Mode selector with various traction control modes like Snow, Dirt and Deep Snow, and Mud.
Interior
This is the aspect that you may count on Subaru’s typical design approach. Just like ICE models, the 2023 Subaru Solterra offers a minimalist design, with simple design solutions and pretty conservative aesthetics. Still, there are some futuristic details as well, particularly the highly positioned digital instrument cluster, which looks like it’s been taken from a fighter jet. The optional 12.3-inch infotainment screen also makes a big impact on interior aesthetics.
With more than 112 inches in wheelbase, it’s obvious that Soltera has plenty of legroom. Both rows are very generous in this aspect and we could say that this SUV accommodated five people pretty easily. However, keep in mind the sloping roof design, so taller passengers may have some trouble with headroom in the second row.
The cargo area offers around 30 cubic feet behind the second row, which is typical for an EV of this size.
Features
The 2023 Subaru Solterra is a well-equipped vehicle, which comes standard with goodies like automatic climate control, a 7-inch instrument cluster, an 8-inch touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth and five USB ports. Of course, there is much more to get in higher trim levels. Some of the notable options are goodies like a 12.3-inch touch screen, wireless device charging, a Wi-Fi hotspot, navigation and a Harman Kardon stereo. You can also opt for a panoramic sunroof and a digital key.
When it comes to safety features, base models come standard with a rearview camera, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, lane keeps assist, intersection collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, emergency steering assist, rear-seat reminder etc. Additionally, you can get options like a surround-view camera system, park assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and rain-sensing windshield wiper.
2023 Subaru Solterra Powertrain and Performance
The 2023 Subaru Solterra is available in only one configuration, with a couple of 80-kW electric motors, one on each axle. So, you get pretty much a typical Subaru with all-wheel drive, with a max output of 215 horsepower and 249 pound-feet of torque. That’s plenty enough to move Solterra from zero to sixty in about 6.5 seconds, while the overall driving dynamics are also pretty good.
The vehicle comes coupled with a 72.8-kWh battery pack, which provides around 228 miles of range. When it comes to charging, you may count on a 6.6kW Level 2 charger, which fully recharges the battery in 9 hours. On the other hand, the DC fast charger supports charging speeds of up to 100kW. This means that the battery recharges from 10 to 80 percent in about 56 minutes, which is a little bit subpar for the segment.
2023 Subaru Solterra Release Date and Price
The 2023 Subaru Solterra is already available on the market, with a starting price of around 46.200 dollars.
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