Subaru Solterra AWD is an EV shining star
SUBARU launched itself into the new age of electrification with the introduction of the all-new Forester e-Boxer Hybrid and XV e-BoxerHybrid – which arrived in Ireland in 2019.
Now, Subaru has gone one step further with the launch of the all-new, fully-electric Solterra, which is the most technologically advanced Subaru ever made.
Built on Subaru's first ever all-electric architecture – the Subaru e-Global Platform – the Solterra got its name by combining the Latin words for ‘sun' and ‘earth'. With Subaru's core technology, dual motors and its trusted Permanent All-Wheel Drive (AWD) System, it promises an outstanding driving performance, with the same 5-star safety, go-anywhere capability and rugged reliability that Subaru SUVs are renowned for.
The Solterra is Subaru's version of the Toyota bZ4X, with the main difference being that the Solterra comes with four-wheel drive as standard.
Subaru stayed true to its roots as a maker of capable off-road vehicles by giving its first electric SUV proper off-road ability, with an X Mode setting for extra traction when driving on tough terrain.
The X Mode controls the motors and brakes to maximise traction on deep mud, snow or even steep, slippery slopes. With an impressive 210mm of ground clearance, a wade depth of 500mm, and approach and departure angles of 17.7 and 21.0 degrees respectively, the Solterra can be taken off the beaten track with confidence.
The new Solterra AWD SUV is available in Limited and Touring trim variants, both of which are powered by dual electric motors that produce 218PS (215bhp) and 336Nm of instant torque.
This strong combination of power and torque provides the car with the ability to sprint from 0-100km/h in just 6.9-seconds. In terms of advanced safety features, the Solterra comes as standard with Subaru's Safety Sense Package in addition to an E-Call function and a Driver Monitoring System for total peace of mind on every journey. Drive modes consist of Eco, Normal and Power settings, along with X-Mode and Hill Descent Control functions.
My review car was a Solterra Touring AWD in ever-popular grey metallic paint, and it looked spectacular and ultra-modern from every angle. The Solterra has more than enough power on tap to dive into gaps in traffic, or join a motorway with confidence, while the extra traction that the four-wheel drive system provides is a terrific bonus when accelerating in slippery conditions too.
The level of regenerative braking can be selected via the paddles behind the multi-function, leather-wrapped steering wheel, so it is very easy to select a level that suits an individual's driving style. With accurate steering, minimal amounts of body lean through fast bends, impressive grip, and a reassuringly-strong brake pedal feel, the Solterra is a joy to drive on any terrain.
A well-judged suspension set-up provides the car with a compliant ride quality over rutted road surfaces and speed ramps, and the elevated driving position provides a commanding forward view. Overall fit and finish throughout the spacious cabin is commendable, and the comfortable and supportive seats come with fabric covering in Limited trim and with synthetic leather in Touring trim. The Solterra's practical boot has a capacity of up to 452 litres behind the rear seats (with a reclining function), but the 60/40 split folding seatbacks can be folded when the need arises, while the storage area under the boot floor is the ideal place to keep the charging cables. When the 71.4kWh battery is fully charged, the Solterra can achieve a range of up to 465km on a WLTP combined driving cycle. The charging socket is conveniently located on the passenger-side front wing, and it offers a variety of charging options, both at home and on the go.
When connected to a public DC fast charging station, the lithium-ion battery can complete a 20-80% charge in as little as 30 minutes.
The Solterra Limited AWD is priced at €51,495 and the Touring AWD is priced at €56,495.