What Subaru electric vehicles are available right now

Subaru currently sells one fully electric vehicle in the United States: the Solterra, a three-row SUV that started deliveries in 2023. The company also offers the Crosstrek Hybrid, which pairs a gas engine with an electric motor but is not a plug-in hybrid — it cannot run on battery power alone for extended distances. If you are looking for a Subaru that plugs in and runs electric-only, the Solterra is your only choice right now.

Subaru has announced plans to release more electric models over the next several years, including an electric version of the Outback and smaller crossovers. However, these are not yet available for purchase. The company's strategy focuses on all-wheel drive and off-road capability, which shapes how their electric vehicles are designed and priced.

Key Takeaways

  • The Solterra is Subaru's only fully electric vehicle currently sold in the United States, with a range of roughly 228 miles on a full charge depending on the model year and trim.
  • Subaru electric vehicles come standard with all-wheel drive, which adds weight and cost compared to front-wheel-drive competitors but improves traction in snow and rough terrain.
  • Federal tax credits up to $7,500 may be available if the vehicle meets price and income limits, though you should verify current rules with the dealer or IRS before purchase.
  • Charging at home requires a Level 2 charger installation, which typically costs $500 to $2,500 depending on your home's electrical setup.
  • Subaru's dealer network is smaller than Tesla's, so finding service and charging infrastructure may require more planning in rural areas.

How the Solterra's range and charging work

The Solterra comes in two main trims — Standard and Limited — with slightly different battery sizes and ranges. The Standard model offers approximately 228 miles of range, while the Limited adds a larger battery for roughly 228 miles as well, though real-world range depends heavily on driving conditions, temperature, and how aggressively you accelerate. Cold weather can reduce range by 20 to 40 percent, which matters if you live in a northern state.

Charging at home on a standard 120-volt outlet takes 10 to 14 hours for a partial charge and is impractical for daily use. Installing a Level 2 charger (240 volts) in your garage or driveway cuts that to 6 to 8 hours for a full charge and is the standard setup most owners use. Public fast chargers (DC fast charging) can add 200 miles in roughly 30 minutes, though charging speed slows as the battery fills.

Subaru includes a portable charging cable with the Solterra, but you will need to arrange installation of a home charger separately. The cost varies by region and your home's existing electrical capacity — older homes may need panel upgrades that push the total higher.

Price, federal tax credits, and what affects the final cost

The Solterra's starting price is in the mid-$40,000 range before any discounts or tax credits, placing it above some competitors but below luxury electric SUVs. Subaru's all-wheel-drive standard setup and three-row seating account for much of that cost. Trim levels, paint color, and optional packages can add several thousand dollars.

A federal tax credit of up to $7,500 may reduce your federal income tax if you meet income and price limits. These rules change year to year, and not all Solterra models may have access to — the vehicle's final assembly location and battery component sourcing affect may be able to access. Before signing a purchase agreement, ask the dealer whether the specific model you want qualifies for the credit in the current tax year.

State and local incentives vary widely. Some states offer additional rebates or tax credits for electric vehicle purchases, while others offer reduced registration fees or access to carpool lanes. Check your state's energy office website or ask the dealer what programs explore where you live.

All-wheel drive as standard and what it means for your driving

Unlike many competitors that offer all-wheel drive as an option, Subaru includes it on every Solterra. This means better traction in snow, rain, and unpaved roads, but it also means higher weight, higher cost, and slightly lower efficiency compared to front-wheel-drive electric vehicles. If you live in a warm, flat region and rarely encounter snow or rough terrain, you are paying for capability you may not use.

The trade-off is real: all-wheel drive reduces the Solterra's range by roughly 10 to 15 miles compared to what a front-wheel-drive version would achieve on the same battery. Subaru's engineering prioritizes this capability because the company's brand identity centers on outdoor and winter driving. If that matches your needs, the standard all-wheel drive is a genuine advantage. If not, you may find better range and lower cost in a front-wheel-drive competitor.

Charging infrastructure and dealer service availability

Subaru's dealer network is smaller than Tesla's and more concentrated in suburban and urban areas. If you live in a rural region, finding a Subaru dealer for service or warranty work may mean a longer drive. The company is expanding its charging network through partnerships, but availability is still uneven across the country. Before purchasing, check the PlugShare or ChargePoint apps to see how many public chargers exist within 20 miles of your home and workplace.

Subaru dealers can handle routine maintenance and warranty repairs, but not all dealers have technicians trained on electric vehicle systems. When shopping, ask whether the specific dealer you are considering has certified EV technicians on staff. This matters if something goes wrong with the battery, motor, or charging system.

Home charging remains the most practical option for daily use, which is why installation cost and your home's electrical capacity should factor into your decision. If you cannot install a home charger or do not have reliable access to public charging, an electric vehicle may not suit your situation yet.

How the Solterra compares to other three-row electric SUVs

The Solterra competes directly with the Tesla Model X, Volkswagen ID.Buzz, and Kia EV9, all of which offer three rows and all-wheel-drive options. The Solterra's main advantages are Subaru's reputation for reliability, standard all-wheel drive, and a more traditional SUV design. Its main disadvantages are lower range than some competitors, a smaller charging network than Tesla, and higher starting price than the Kia EV9.

The Tesla Model X offers longer range and faster charging but costs significantly more and requires using Tesla's proprietary charging network. The Kia EV9 starts lower in price and offers more range, but Kia's dealer network is also smaller than traditional gas-vehicle brands. The Volkswagen ID.Buzz is smaller and more expensive, targeting a different buyer.

Your choice depends on your budget, how far you typically drive, whether you can install home charging, and whether you value Subaru's brand reputation and all-wheel-drive standard setup. Test driving each option and checking real-world range reviews for your climate will give you the clearest picture.

Maintenance and long-term ownership costs

Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts than gas engines, which means lower maintenance costs over time. The Solterra has no oil changes, spark plugs, or transmission fluid to replace. Brake pads last longer because regenerative braking — where the motor slows the car and captures energy — does most of the stopping work. Tire wear may be slightly higher due to the vehicle's weight, but tires are a normal expense for any vehicle.

Battery degradation is a common concern for electric vehicle owners. Subaru warrants the Solterra's battery for 8 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first, covering defects and significant capacity loss. Real-world data from other electric vehicles shows that batteries typically retain 85 to 95 percent of their capacity after 10 years of normal use, though this varies by climate and charging habits. Keeping the battery between 20 and 80 percent charge during daily use and avoiding extreme heat can extend its lifespan.

Insurance costs for electric vehicles are often similar to or slightly higher than gas equivalents, depending on repair costs and your insurer's experience with the model. Ask for a quote before purchasing to understand the true ownership cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I tow with a Subaru Solterra?

The Solterra is not rated for towing. If you need to tow a trailer regularly, you will need to choose a different vehicle. Subaru has not announced plans for a towing-capable electric model yet.

What happens to the Solterra's range in winter?

Cold weather reduces range by 20 to 40 percent because the battery is less efficient and the cabin heater draws significant power. If the Solterra shows 228 miles of range in summer, expect 140 to 180 miles in winter depending on how cold it gets and how much you use the heater.

Does the Solterra work with non-Subaru charging networks?

Yes. The Solterra uses the standard CCS charging connector, which works with most public fast chargers in the United States. It does not use Tesla's proprietary connector, so you have access to networks like Electrify America, EVgo, and ChargePoint.

How long does a Solterra battery last?

Subaru warrants the battery for 8 years or 100,000 miles. Most electric vehicle batteries retain 85 to 95 percent of their capacity after 10 years of normal use, though real-world lifespan depends on climate, charging habits, and how often you use fast charging.

Is there a plug-in hybrid Subaru I can buy right now?

Subaru does not currently sell a plug-in hybrid in the United States. The Crosstrek Hybrid is a regular hybrid that cannot run on battery power alone. If you want a Subaru that plugs in, the Solterra is your only option.