Subaru Solterra
By Bill McCarthy
The name Solterra is derived from the Latin words for “Sun” and “Earth,” symbolising, says Subaru, its dedication to providing traditional SUV capabilities within an environmentally friendly framework.
As a result of this, the Solterra, in collaboration with Toyota, has become the brand’s first EV
This partnership combines Subaru’s legendary AWD expertise with Toyota’s proven EV technology, resulting in a capable, tech-packed electric SUV.
Design and practicality
It has an eye catching presence with its high ground clearance (210mm), muscular wheel arches, and a rugged profile that hints at its off-road potential. Aerodynamic touches, such as the twin ducktail spoilers, help balance practicality with style.
There are two specifications, Limited and the Touring model driven here.
Both offer a premium feel and are packed with a raft of tech and goodies, with this model adding 20-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, and leather upholstery, while both trims come well-equipped with heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and a 360-degree parking camera for ease of manoeuvring in what is a big motor.
Inside, the SUV offers a spacious, well-appointed cabin, a five-seater with generous legroom and a nearly flat floor, creating an airy and spacious feel.
It is a big vehicle and offers decent stowage and luggage. Space, with 452 litres of luggage space in the boot area and includes a 60/40 folding seatback and a two-position load floor, enhancing both luggage and passenger flexibility.
The wide tailgate opening, coupled with a low lift-over height, makes loading and unloading easy. Additionally, standard fixed cross-bar mounting points offer more cargo-carrying options for adventurous owners.
Performance
Powered by dual 60kW motors and a 71.4kWh battery, the Solterra delivers a claimed 289 miles of range (WLTP)—enough for decent getaways, but in the real world I struggled to get near that figure, in admittedly unscientific conditions, with wind and rain and higher speed motorway driving helping to eat up the power.
However, rapid charging is a highlight, with 10-80 per cent charge in under 35 minutes at 150 kW. A preconditioning system optimises battery temperature for faster charging, even in cold weather.
On the road, acceleration is rapid in EV style, hitting 0–60mph in around seven seconds. Handling is decent enough
But this is a seriously capable four-wheel drive vehicle, still something of a rarity with EVs. Its off-road capability is delivered via Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD system, combined with its X-MODE, which enhances traction in challenging conditions.
Setting are available for Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud – allowing it to tackle tricky conditions pretty comfortably.
Technology and safety
The inside is dominated a 12.3-inch touchscreen that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a seven-inch digital driver’s display with real time info.
The touchscreen also controls infotainment with the Harmon/Kardon eight-speaker system and navigation.
The hi-tech stuff is mated with more traditional, even old fashioned secondary controls, but these deliver a feeling of robustness in the cabin.
The firm’s EyeSight system enhances safety with functions such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and pre-collision braking.
Additional safety technologies, including blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, provide confidence in various driving situations, not to mention a full complement of airbags.
Pricing and updates
Starting at £52,495 for the Limited, it the price puts it among the more expensive options in the electric SUV segment. Mitigating this is superb Subaru off-road capability alongside premium features.
For those willing to wait, a refreshed 2026 model is set to arrive in early 2026, promising tweaked styling, faster charging, and an enhanced range of up to 25 per cent.
Verdict
The Solterra is an electric SUV that’s as capable on the rough stuff as main roads. While its price may give some buyers pause, its combination of ruggedness, tech, and practicality makes it a slightly left-field eco-friendly alternative to traditional petrol-powered 4x4s.
Factfile
Subaru Solterra Touring EV
- Price: £55,495
- Mechanical: 218PS, 160kW twin-motors, 71.4 kWh battery, driving all wheels via automatic transmission
- Max Speed: 100mph
- 0-62mph: 6.9 secs
- Range: 289 miles
- Insurance Group: 39
- C02 emissions: 0
- Bik rating: 2%
- Warranty: 3yrs/60,000 miles
On the road 