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Let me tell you about the week I spent with the 2024 Subaru Solterra Touring.
The 2024 Solterra marks Subaru's entry into the electric SUV game. Staying true to its roots, it offers standard all-wheel drive and can handle some light off-roading. While the design might not be for everyone, it blends Subaru style with touches of its Toyota bZ4X twin (they share the same platform). Inside, there's plenty of space for four adults and cargo, along with a suite of standard driver-assistance features. Acceleration is decent with the dual-motor setup, but the range is a drawback at 227 miles on a full charge. Competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Tesla Model Y can travel significantly farther. By the way, the Subaru Solterra had a massive sales increase in May.
Let's see if Solterra's strengths outweigh this range limitation and what's new for 2024.
Subaru Offers New Technology in 2024 Solterra
While the core features remain familiar for 2024, Subaru hasn't left the Solterra stagnant. This year's model offers some welcome upgrades.
At first glance, we notice the new shape of the steering wheel, with flat parts at the top and base, to allow better visibility of the screen acting as an instrument cluster. I think Solterra's new and flat steering wheel improves the view of the digital gauge cluster.
Paddles on the back of the steering wheel allow you to adjust the regenerative braking strength for a more customized driving experience.
Subaru has bolstered the Solterra's safety tech with features like low-speed hands-free driving assist, automatic lane-changing capability, and an intersection collision detection system.
Subaru says it has improved the battery warming system, allowing for quicker charging times even in chilly conditions. At the heart of this improvement is a new battery conditioning system, which aims to improve the charging time which was around an hour for 2023 models, to go from 10 to 80% on a fast charging station. It will increase to around 35 minutes by 2024, a considerable improvement that makes charging quickly much more pleasant. Subaru announces, for American versions, that charging at temperatures below freezing will be significantly faster, up to 80 minutes shorter under certain conditions.
The 2024 Subaru Solterra is offered in three trims: Premium, Limited, and Touring. The starting price for the base Solterra AWD model is set for 2024 at $46,340. The Limited version is offered at $49,840, while the Touring trim is offered at about $52,000, but easily reaches $54,550 MSRP with options and delivery.
Solterra's EV Power and Performance
The 2024 Solterra is a pure electric SUV, powered by a twin-motor all-wheel-drive system. These motors combine to generate 215 horsepower and 249 lb-ft of torque. To optimize performance for different situations, the Solterra offers four drive modes: Eco, Normal, Power, and X-Mode. X-Mode shines in slippery conditions or uneven terrain by precisely controlling power delivery to each wheel.
For those who want some off-road adventure, the Solterra boasts 8.3 inches of ground clearance and "Grip Control," a low-speed cruise control system perfect for tricky trails. The steering wheel paddles also provide on-the-fly adjustment of regenerative braking strength.
Subaru Solterra's Exterior Design
While aesthetics might be subjective, the 2024 Solterra's exterior blends Subaru's rugged design language with hints of its Toyota bZ4X cousin, since they share the same platform. This translates into a look that's familiar Subaru with a futuristic twist. The standard all-wheel drive is reflected in the wide stance and ample ground clearance, hinting at its off-road capability. Striking C-shaped LED headlights flank the bold front fascia, mirrored by similarly styled taillights in the rear.
The Solterra offers a generous amount of glass area, providing excellent visibility. Some trims even boast a panoramic fixed glass roof for an even airier feel inside. Overall, the Solterra's design prioritizes function – carving through wind for efficiency – while maintaining a modern and adventurous Subaru character.
Subaru Solterra's Battery, Range and Charging
The Solterra packs a 72.8 kWh battery pack, offering a range of 222 miles for the Limited and Touring trims, and a slightly better 227 miles for the Premium trim (all according to EPA estimates). While respectable for daily commutes, this range falls short of some competitors.
Charging options include Level 1 and Level 2 home charging, with the onboard 6.6 kW charger taking around 9 hours for a full Level 2 charge. DC fast-charging is also an option, and Subaru claims an impressive 80% charge in just 35 minutes using a 100 kW DC fast-charger. This makes road trips more manageable, although planning charging stops might still be necessary compared to some longer-range EVs.
The EPA estimates the 2024 Subaru Solterra's Fuel Economy as high as 102 MPGe combined, and 111/93 city/highway respectively. This translates to significant energy efficiency and cost savings compared to gasoline-powered vehicles.
2024 Solterra's Interior Space and Cargo
Step inside the Solterra, and you're greeted by a modern and functional interior. A high-mounted digital gauge cluster keeps vital information in clear view, while a large touchscreen controls the infotainment system. An elevated center console with a rotary shifter adds a touch of sophistication. The expansive windshield, generous side windows, and available panoramic sunroof all contribute to an airy and open feeling throughout the cabin. Subaru has also paid attention to aesthetics, using a mix of attractive textures to create a pleasing interior environment.
But the Solterra isn't just about looks; it's designed for practicality too. Storage options abound, including a large bin beneath the center console.
With the rear seats folded flat, the Solterra offers up to 30 cubic feet of cargo space, making it a capable travel companion for your gear. As you can see the spacious cabin already suggests that there is ample legroom and headroom in the second row and headroom for up to four adults.
Solterra's Infotainment
The Solterra's infotainment system is centered around a large 12.3-inch touchscreen conveniently located on the dashboard. Every trim level comes standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a wireless phone charger for seamless smartphone integration.
There's also a smartphone app that allows you to remotely control features like the HVAC system to pre-heat or cool the cabin before you get in, or to lock and unlock the doors from afar. Built-in navigation is an optional upgrade, as is a premium Harman/Kardon sound system for those who crave a richer audio experience.
The Drive
As I drove this vehicle on roads and highways I felt that its handling is confident, it has some off-road capability, and provides a comfortable ride.
The Solterra's low center of gravity, thanks to its battery placement, translates to stable and predictable handling on highways and curves.
Standard all-wheel drive and decent ground clearance make the Solterra a compelling choice for those who want an electric SUV that can handle light off-roading.
Reviewers report a smooth and comfortable ride quality, thanks in part to the Solterra's well-tuned suspension.
Solterra's Competitors
The 2024 Solterra enters a crowded electric SUV marketplace. Here's how it compares to some key rivals:
- Hyundai Ioniq 5 & Kia EV6: Both offer more futuristic styling, potentially longer range, and possibly faster acceleration. However, they lack the standard all-wheel drive and rugged off-road capability that the Solterra brings to the table.
- Tesla Model Y: With its industry-leading range and a reputation for performance, the Model Y is a tempting option. But its starting price is significantly higher, and the Solterra boasts superior interior space and cargo capacity.
- Ford Mustang Mach-E: The Mustang Mach-E offers a blend of performance and practicality, but again, all-wheel drive isn't standard across all trims. The Solterra might be a better choice for those seeking a more traditional Subaru driving experience with a focus on off-road capability.
Why Choose the Solterra?
So, why pick the Solterra over these competitors? Here's where its strengths shine:
- Standard All-Wheel Drive: Every Solterra comes equipped with all-wheel drive, a major advantage for winter driving or tackling light off-road trails. This is a feature some rivals only offer on higher trims or as an expensive add-on.
- Off-Road chops: Subaru's heritage shines through here. With decent ground clearance and X-Mode, the Solterra is more capable of handling non-paved surfaces than most electric SUVs.
- Subaru Safety & Spacious Interior: Subaru is renowned for safety, and the Solterra is packed with driver-assistance features. Plus, the cabin offers ample space for passengers and cargo, making it a practical choice for families or those who like to bring extra gear on their adventures.
- Subaru Brand Loyalty: If you're a Subaru enthusiast who wants to go electric but still value the brand's core strengths, the Solterra is a compelling option that bridges the gap between tradition and EV innovation.
The Solterra might not be the flashiest or the longest-range EV on the market, but it offers a unique combination of practicality, off-road capability, Subaru dependability, and a spacious interior – all at a competitive price point. If these are the features you prioritize in an electric SUV, then the 2024 Solterra deserves a serious look.
Do you drive a Solterra? Please, click the red link below and tell us your experience to join the discussion.
Armen Hareyan is the founder and the Editor in Chief of Torque News. He founded TorqueNews.com in 2010, which since then has been publishing expert news and analysis about the automotive industry. He can be reached at Torque News Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin, and Youtube. He has more than a decade of expertise in the automotive industry with a special interest in Tesla and electric vehicles.
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