Stepping into the 2024 Subaru Solterra Touring, it’s hard to shake the feeling of déjà vu. The exterior styling, the dashboard layout – it all screams Toyota bZ4X. This isn’t a coincidence; the Solterra and bZ4X share the same e-TNGA platform, a collaborative effort between Toyota and Subaru. While platform sharing is common in the automotive industry, the resemblance between these two EVs is striking, similar to how the Honda Prologue, Chevrolet Blazer EV, and Cadillac Lyriq all stem from a common GM platform.
Having recently spent time with the Toyota bZ4X, the Solterra felt immediately familiar. While subtle differences exist, the overall driving experience and even some quirks are mirrored. Is the Subaru Solterra simply a Toyota bZ4X in Subaru clothing? And more importantly, does it stand on its own as a compelling electric SUV? After a week-long test drive of the 2024 Subaru Solterra Touring, we delve into the pros and cons to help you decide if this EV deserves your attention.
Subaru Solterra Touring 2024: Key Specs
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Battery | 72.8 kWh |
| Range | 222 miles |
| Horsepower | 215 hp |
| Wheels | 20-inches |
| MSRP | $51,995 |
Driving the Subaru Solterra: Performance and Efficiency
Subaru Solterra Touring 2024 instrument cluster showing driving information.
(Image credit: Future)
Just like its Toyota sibling, the Solterra delivers a surprisingly zippy acceleration despite its modest 215 horsepower output. In real-world driving scenarios, this translates to a responsive and enjoyable experience, especially in city environments. Our testing focused on practical aspects like real-world efficiency and Level 1 charging performance, crucial for EV adoption, particularly for those new to electric vehicles who may initially rely on Level 1 charging before upgrading to Level 2 at-home solutions.
- Total Miles Driven: 382.7 miles (mixed highway and city)
- Peak Efficiency: 4.3 mi/kWh (36 miles of heavy traffic driving)
- Level 1 Charging: 33 miles added in 9.133 hours
- Level 1 Charging Rate: Approximately 3.61 miles per hour
- Battery Increase (Level 1): 33% in 9.133 hours
During a particularly congested commute, the Solterra impressed with a peak efficiency of 4.3 mi/kWh over 33 miles. However, the average efficiency during our test hovered around 2.9 mi/kWh. While decent, it falls short of class-leading figures. For context, the Hyundai Kona Electric, a compact SUV EV praised for its efficiency, achieved 4.5 mi/kWh in similar tests.
Subaru Solterra: The Pros
Eye-Catching Futuristic Design
Front headlight detail of the 2024 Subaru Solterra Touring showcasing projector lamps.
(Image credit: Future)
The Solterra’s futuristic aesthetic is undeniably appealing. Sharing its design language with the bZ4X isn’t necessarily a drawback, as the sharp lines, contrasting accents, and sleek profile command attention. The distinctive stacked projector headlights and the almost vent-less grille contribute to a modern and unique road presence, setting it apart from more conventional vehicles.
Comfortable and Stable Ride
Side profile of the 2024 Subaru Solterra Touring highlighting its ground clearance and wheel design.
(Image credit: Future)
Even primarily utilizing ECO mode during our test, the Solterra displayed ample power when needed. Acceleration from a standstill is brisk, and the low-profile design contributes to excellent stability at highway speeds. Compared to taller SUVs like the Kia EV9, the Solterra feels planted and secure, enhancing driver confidence.
One key differentiator for the Solterra is Subaru’s signature X-Mode. While designed to optimize off-road performance, we found it particularly useful for enhancing grip on steep inclines, adding a layer of capability beyond typical urban driving.
Top-Tier Smart Cruise Control System
Interior view of the 2024 Subaru Solterra Touring front seats and dashboard, emphasizing the spaciousness.
(Image credit: Future)
Smart cruise control is becoming increasingly common, but the Solterra’s implementation stands out. This system goes beyond simply maintaining speed; it intelligently manages braking, acceleration, and even steering assistance. Similar to the bZ4X, the Solterra’s smart cruise control excels in its responsiveness and smoothness. Acceleration is consistently smooth and predictable, never feeling jerky or aggressive. The system feels anticipatory, reacting to road conditions in a refined and confidence-inspiring manner.
Subaru Solterra: The Cons
Lack of Distinctiveness
2024 Subaru Solterra Touring in motion during a test drive on a paved road.
(Image credit: Future)
The most significant drawback is the Solterra’s overwhelming similarity to the Toyota bZ4X. While platform sharing is understandable, Subaru missed an opportunity to inject more unique Subaru DNA into the Solterra, especially considering it launched after the bZ4X. Models like the Honda Prologue and Chevrolet Blazer EV demonstrate that shared platforms can still result in distinct vehicles. As Subaru’s first EV, the Solterra risks being overshadowed by the bZ4X simply due to timing and the stronger brand recognition Toyota holds in the EV space currently.
Overly Sensitive Driver Monitoring System
Close-up of the steering wheel in the 2024 Subaru Solterra Touring highlighting the driver monitoring system sensor.
(Image credit: Future)
The Solterra prioritizes safety with an infrared camera-based driver monitoring system. However, its sensitivity can become intrusive. Like the bZ4X, the system constantly monitors driver attention, issuing alerts if it detects diverted gaze or an obscured face. This extends to the smart cruise control, which can disengage if attention alerts are ignored, potentially becoming more of a nuisance than a helpful safety feature in everyday driving.
Final Verdict: Subaru Solterra Reviews – Is it Worth It?
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The Subaru Solterra is not a bad EV, particularly if practicality and spaciousness are high on your priority list. It offers a comfortable ride, appealing design, and capable handling. However, it struggles to differentiate itself from the Toyota bZ4X, a crucial point when considering value.
Currently, lease deals heavily favor the Toyota bZ4X. For instance, a bZ4X lease might be around $219/month for 36 months with $3,999 down, totaling $11,883. The Solterra, on the other hand, could be closer to $329/month for 36 months with $329 down, totaling $12,173. Even comparing MSRPs, the bZ4X often comes in slightly lower.
Unless you are a loyal Subaru enthusiast, the value proposition of the Toyota bZ4X is difficult to ignore. The Solterra, while a competent EV, needs to offer more to truly stand out in a rapidly growing and competitive electric SUV market.
