~ A DriveWays Review ~
by Frank A. Aukofer

Somewhere, a matchmaker was at work when Subaru of Japan decided to design, manufacture and deliver an all-new electric crossover sport utility vehicle named the Solterra.

Now in its second year, the 2024 Subaru Solterra (the name means “sun” and “earth”) delivers eye-catching styling combined with the company’s dedication to equipping its vehicles with all-wheel drive for solid on-road and off-road capabilities. Electric motors front and rear keep all four wheels churning with Subaru’s Symmetrical all-wheel drive, augmented by 8.3 inches of ground clearance.

The tested Solterra was dressed in a gaudy shade of “Red Pearl” paint with stylish shiny “Galactic Black” trim and matte black accents that made it a standout in a crowded garage or parking lot.

But its chief claim to fame is that the Solterra is 100% electric with all that entails: rapid acceleration, silent running, superior fuel economy, passenger comfort, responsive handling and leisurely long-distance cruising.

Moreover, the Solterra offers 96 cubic feet of space for five passengers. There’s also 24 cubic feet of space for luggage and other cargo behind the back seat, accessed through a rear power tailgate. The total of 120 cubic feet of space qualifies it as a large car as defined by the Environmental Protection Agency.

The Solterra was developed with Toyota, which calls its version the bZ4X. They are nearly identical, though in keeping with Subaru’s dedication to all-wheel drive, the Solterra comes standard with four drive wheels to grab the pavement.

A new steering wheel highlights the interior of the 2024 model. It is square, but with the side sections rounded off. The motivation was to make it easier for the driver to see the instruments over the top of the wheel instead of through it. Most drivers should be able to adjust the wheel to match their sight lines.

Subaru also has repurposed the steering wheel paddles, which on most other cars are used to manually shift the automatic transmission. On the Solterra, as well as some other fully electric vehicles, the paddles are used to adjust the regenerative braking. Pull the left paddle and the braking, which helps recharge the battery pack, becomes more aggressive in increments until it results in so-called one-pedal driving, which can bring the Solterra to a stop without using the brake pedal.

The right pedal does the opposite, releasing the regenerative braking in steps until the Solterra coasts smoothly and easily when the right foot lifts off the accelerator. Of course, coasting nearly shuts off the regenerative braking, requiring more frequent trips to the charger.

On a level 2, 240-volt home charger, Subaru says the Solterra can be fully charged in nine hours, or overnight. It does much better on a commercial DC fast charger, juicing the battery pack to 80% in 35 minutes.

Unfortunately for advocates of long-distance travel, the Solterra is a bit shy on range, advertised at 222 miles. However, Subaru has enhanced the Solterra’s battery warming system to boost charging in cold weather.

The Solterra’s dual electric motors deliver 215 horsepower and 249 pound-feet of torque, or twisting force, which enables zero to 60 miles an hour sprints in the six-second range.

Power is transferred to all four wheels via what is usually called a direct-drive, single-speed automatic transmission. The truth is that electric motors deliver maximum torque as soon as they are switched on and at any rpms, so they don’t actually need a transmission.

The Solterra’s all-wheel drive system incorporates Subaru’s X-Mode with hill descent and ascent control, which is said to deliver safer traction and control up and down on steep inclines. Its dual-motor system is up to the task of producing plenty of power for daily motoring. The system also incorporates the company’s latest EyeSight safety enhancements and driver assist technology, including traffic monitoring, lane-departure warning and adaptive cruise control.

The tested Solterra came fully equipped with full lists of safety and convenience items, including radar cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, Apple Car Play and Android Auto, wireless smart phone charging, SXM satellite radio, voice-activated personal assistant and a panoramic glass sunroof.

It had a starting price of $53,290, including the destination charge, and a suggested delivered price of $54,180.

Specifications

  • Model: 2024 Subaru Solterra Touring four-door crossover sport utility vehicle.
  • Motors: Two electric; total 215 hp, 249 lb-ft torque..
  • Transmission: Single speed direct drive with all-wheel drive.
  • Overall length: 15 feet 5 inches.
  • Height: 5 feet 5 inches.
  • EPA/SAE passenger/cargo volume: 96/24 cubic feet.
  • Weight: 4,355 pounds.
  • Towing capability: Estimated 2,000 to 4,000 pounds.
  • EPA city/highway/combined miles per gallon equivalent: 111/93/102 MPGe. Annual fuel cost: $750.
  • Range: 222 miles.
  • Charging times: On level 2, 240-volt home charger, full charge in nine hours. On DC fast charger, 80% in 35 minutes.
  • Base price, including destination charge: $53,290.
  • Price as tested: $54,180.

Disclaimer: The manufacturer provided the vehicle used to conduct this test drive and review. Photos ©Subaru