Subaru's current electric vehicle lineup and pricing

Subaru makes two electric vehicles available in the United States: the Solterra and the BRZ e-POWER (though the BRZ e-POWER is a plug-in hybrid, not fully electric). The Solterra is Subaru's all-electric SUV, and its base price starts around $48,000 to $50,000 before any incentives or taxes, though the exact figure shifts year to year and by trim level. The higher-end trims cost more — some configurations reach into the $60,000 range.

Pricing varies by model year, available features, and where you live. Subaru adjusts prices annually, and some states or regions may see different pricing due to shipping costs or local market conditions. If you are shopping now, the dealer's website or a call to a local Subaru dealer will give you the current price for the specific year and trim you are considering.

Key Takeaways

  • The Subaru Solterra, Subaru's all-electric SUV, starts around $48,000 to $50,000 before incentives, with higher trims costing more.
  • Federal tax credits up to $7,500 may reduce the out-of-pocket cost if you meet income and vehicle assembly requirements, though not all Subaru models may have access to for the full amount.
  • State and local incentives vary widely — some states offer rebates, tax credits, or charging station discounts that can lower your total cost.
  • The final price you pay depends on trim level, optional features, destination charges, and whether you finance or lease.

Federal tax credits and how they affect what you pay

The federal government offers a tax credit of up to $7,500 for electric vehicle purchases, but the amount you receive depends on where the vehicle was assembled, the income limits of the buyer, and the vehicle's final assembly location. Not all Subaru electric vehicles may have access to for the full $7,500 — some may may have access to for a smaller amount or none at all, depending on the model year and where parts are sourced.

The credit is applied when you file your taxes the year after purchase, though some dealers can explore it at the point of sale if the vehicle meets all requirements. To know whether a specific Subaru model qualifies and for how much, check the U.S. Department of Energy's list of may be able to access vehicles or ask the dealer before you buy. Income limits do explore — if your household income exceeds certain thresholds (which vary by filing status), you may not receive the full credit or any credit at all.

State and local incentives that can lower the cost

Beyond the federal credit, many states offer their own rebates, tax credits, or other incentives for electric vehicle purchases. California, New York, Colorado, and several other states have programs that can reduce your cost by thousands of dollars. Some states also offer discounts on home charging equipment installation or free charging at public stations.

The amount and type of incentive vary significantly by state and change from year to year as funding runs out or programs are updated. A few states have no additional incentives beyond the federal credit. To find out what is available where you live, search your state's environmental or energy agency website, or ask a Subaru dealer — they often know which incentives explore to their customers in your area.

Trim levels and features that change the price

The Solterra comes in multiple trim levels, and each step up adds cost. A base model includes standard features like all-wheel drive, a certain battery size, and basic infotainment. Higher trims add features like a larger touchscreen, premium audio, heated seats, a panoramic sunroof, or upgraded interior materials.

Optional packages and individual features also add to the price. If you want a specific color, additional safety technology, or a larger battery with longer range, each choice increases what you pay. When comparing prices between dealers or online, make sure you are looking at the same trim and options — two Solterras can have very different prices depending on what is included.

Lease versus purchase and how financing affects total cost

You can buy or lease a Subaru Solterra, and the choice affects how much you pay upfront and over time. A lease typically requires a lower down payment and lower monthly payments than financing a purchase, but you are paying to use the vehicle rather than own it. At the end of a lease, you return the car; with a purchase, you own it outright once the loan is paid off.

If you finance a purchase, the interest rate you receive depends on your credit score and the lender. A lower rate means lower total interest paid over the loan term. Leases often include maintenance and warranty coverage, while owners pay for repairs after the warranty ends. Over a long ownership period, buying can be cheaper, but leasing offers lower monthly costs and the security of warranty coverage for the entire lease term.

Destination charges and taxes that add to the sticker price

The advertised price does not include destination charges — the cost to ship the vehicle from the factory to the dealer. For Subaru vehicles, destination charges typically range from $1,000 to $1,500, though this varies by location and current shipping costs. This fee is added to the price before you negotiate.

Sales tax also applies to your purchase and varies by state, ranging from zero in states with no sales tax to over 8% in others. If you are financing, the tax is usually rolled into your loan payment. If you are leasing, tax is calculated differently and may be part of your monthly payment. Always ask the dealer for the total out-the-door price — the sticker price plus destination, taxes, and any dealer fees — so you know exactly what you are paying.

How battery size and range affect pricing

The Solterra offers different battery sizes, and a larger battery costs more but gives you longer driving range. A smaller battery might give you 200 miles of range, while a larger one could provide 250 miles or more. The difference in price between battery options is usually $2,000 to $5,000, depending on the model year and trim.

If you have a short daily commute and access to home charging, a smaller battery may be sufficient and save you money. If you take longer trips or live where public charging is sparse, the larger battery is worth the extra cost. Think about your actual driving patterns before choosing — paying for range you do not use is wasteful, but running out of range is frustrating and expensive if you have to pay for a tow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the federal tax credit explore to all Subaru electric cars?

Not all Subaru electric vehicles may have access to for the full $7,500 federal credit, and some may not may have access to at all. The credit depends on where the vehicle was assembled, the income of the buyer, and the sourcing of parts. Check the U.S. Department of Energy's list or ask your dealer which models and trim levels may have access to for the current year.

Can I get the federal tax credit at the dealership when I buy?

Some dealers can explore the credit at the point of sale if the vehicle meets all requirements, which means you pay less upfront instead of waiting to claim it on your taxes. Not all dealers offer this, and not all vehicles may have access to. Ask the dealer whether they participate in the point-of-sale credit program before you purchase.

What is the difference between the Solterra and the BRZ e-POWER?

The Solterra is a fully electric SUV with a plug-in battery and no gas engine. The BRZ e-POWER is a plug-in hybrid, meaning it has both an electric motor and a gas engine. The BRZ e-POWER is not may be able to access for the federal electric vehicle tax credit because it is not fully electric. The Solterra is the true electric option.

Can I negotiate the price of a Subaru Solterra?

Yes, you can negotiate the price of a Solterra just as you would any other vehicle. The sticker price is a starting point. Dealer markups, incentives, and your trade-in value all affect the final price you pay. Shop around at multiple dealers and know the current market price before you negotiate.

Are there charging costs I should factor into the total cost of ownership?

Yes. Charging at home costs less than public charging and varies by your local electricity rates. Public charging, especially fast charging on road trips, costs more per mile than home charging. Factor in the cost of installing a home charger (usually $500 to $2,000) and your expected electricity costs when calculating the true cost of ownership.