Solterra: we tested Subaru’s first electric

The Solterra is the first 100% electric vehicle of the Japanese brand, which will go on sale in Spain in November 2022. It is a model developed jointly with Toyota. While the two companies have pooled their expertise to create an entirely new foundation, the goal of
Subaru has been to achieve superior passive safety and better vehicle stability, maintaining its essence and its characteristic 4X4 traction present in all its models. The two companies have brought their respective strengths to the table, such as Subaru’s long-standing and successful All Wheel Drive technology and Toyota’s vehicle electrification technology.

The Solterra has two electric motors with 109 hp each, 218 hp in total, which provide a range of up to 466 km in combined cycle and 610 km in urban (WLTP). The 91-cell lithium-ion battery has a capacity of 71.4 kWh; recharging is by alternating current, which can be done at a maximum of 6.6 kW and with continuous current at 150 kW, charging to 80% in just 17 minutes. In addition, the battery is designed to maintain at least 90% capacity for the first ten years of the vehicle.

Subariu has adopted in this model a new system that drives the front and rear wheels with independent motors. It features the dual function X-MODE AWD control system (Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud) which has been greatly enhanced by the powerful torque and high responsiveness of the two independent motors, enhancing the feeling of driving. safety on roads in poor condition. By adding the new Grip Control feature, it allows the vehicle to run at a constant speed while stabilizing it even on rough roads.

The driver can choose between three driving modes: Eco, Normal and Power, in addition to the possibility of adjusting regenerative braking through the paddles located behind the steering wheel. Thanks to the S-Pedal, the new Subaru Solterra can also accelerate or brake gradually, even allowing the vehicle to stop without having to press the brake pedal.

During the brief dynamic test that we have been able to carry out with the vehicle in a closed circuit and off-road conditions, we have been able to verify the comfort of the vehicle, even driving on a dirt track with numerous irregularities. The response of the electric motors is immediate, as well as the 4X4 traction, with which we can face the irregularities of the surface without any fear. The controls are accessible, and the posture behind the wheel is more reminiscent of a sedan or compact car than an SUV or all-terrain vehicle. We also have a large number of holes to deposit objects, in addition to a 452-liter trunk. The rear seats leave more than enough space for three travelers to travel comfortably.

Outwardly, the first thing that catches the eye is the hexagonal grille without joints, typical of electric vehicles and whose shape has already become a distinctive sign of the brand, as the Outback and the Forester already advanced.

Data sheet:

Engine: two electric with 218 total CV

Top speed: 160km/h

Consumption: 16kWh/100km

Length/width/height (in meters): 4.69/1.86/1.65

Trunk: 452 liters

Inside the new Solterra, a comfortable environment stands out in each of its seats, and where the gaze is focused on the large instrument panel (12.3 ») located in the center console. Control knobs are close at hand. Nor do details go unnoticed such as the wireless charger for the mobile phone, the panoramic roof, a trunk with 452 liters of capacity, or the quality of the synthetic leather on the seats.