Did the World Forget About Subaru’s Electric SUV?
Subaru offers one fully electric vehicle in its lineup. Some consumers forget about its existence completely. Some auto enthusiasts want to forget that the SUV exists. Why doesn’t the Subaru Solterra small electric SUV get more attention?
Is the Subaru Solterra available in the U.S.?
The 2023 Subaru Solterra is available in the United States in three configurations. It comes in Premium, Limited, and Touring trims.
The Subaru Solterra starts at $44,995. It makes 215 horsepower and 249 lb-ft of torque. The Solterra travels for around 222 miles on a full charge. It comes standard with heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and heated outside mirrors. The Solterra also includes standard all-wheel drive, dynamic radar cruise control, and a tire pressure monitoring system.
Subaru’s fully-electric SUV has 8.3 inches of ground clearance. The Solterra has a top speed of 110 miles per hour.
Why isn’t the Subaru Solterra more popular?
The Subaru Solterra is far from one of the most popular small electric SUVs. In fact, it has become one of the least popular options in its segment. This is, in many ways, no fault of the Solterra’s. It speaks to how competitive the small electric SUV space is and how far rivals have come in recent years.
The Tesla Model Y is the undisputed most popular small electric SUV. It’s also currently the most popular vehicle in the world, beating out the RAV4 for the top spot.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and Volkswagen ID.4 are more popular than the Subaru Solterra. Unfortunately for the automakers, the Solterra and its cousin, the Toyota bZ4X, have slipped under the radar of auto enthusiasts and consumers. Although the Solterra isn’t a bad small electric SUV, it just isn’t as exciting as some of its main rivals. The Tesla Model Y is quicker and has more standard driving range. Federal electric vehicle tax incentives also put Tesla’s small electric SUV within the same price range as the slower and less refined Solterra.
Models like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 offer incredible value for the money and a driving experience that’s hard to compete with. While the Ford Mustang Mach-E brings sports car driving dynamics into the world of electric SUVs. Alternatively, the Subaru Solterra doesn’t stand out enough to avoid being eclipsed by more popular models.
Should you get a 2023 Subaru Solterra?
If you want an electric Subaru SUV that delivers all the thrills of a mildly capable off-road vehicle, the Solterra delivers. If you were looking for sprinkles on top, steer clear. The main issue with the Subaru Solterra is that some of its competitors provide more value for the money. Timing is essential in the EV space, and when consumers find an electric vehicle they like, good luck dethroning it.
Between the Tesla Model Y and the Hyundai Ioniq 5, there isn’t much room for many other standout models in the segment. The year 2023 is dominated by the Model Y. So, the Solterra is a pass for the average driver. If you’re a die-hard Subaru fan, it’ll still scratch your EV itch.
