Subaru's current electric vehicle options
Subaru makes one fully electric vehicle available to U.S. buyers: the Solterra, a three-row SUV that started production in 2023. The company also sells the Crosstrek Hybrid and Outback Hybrid, which pair a gasoline engine with an electric motor but cannot run on battery power alone. If you are shopping for a Subaru that runs entirely on electricity, the Solterra is your only choice at this moment.
Subaru has announced plans to introduce more fully electric models over the next several years, but as of now, the Solterra remains the sole battery-electric option in their U.S. lineup. The company has committed to offering an electric version of the Crosstrek and other models, though release dates have not been confirmed.
Key Takeaways
- The Solterra is Subaru's only fully electric vehicle currently sold in the United States, with a range of approximately 228 miles per charge depending on the model year and trim.
- Subaru also offers hybrid versions of the Crosstrek and Outback that combine a gas engine with electric power, but these are not fully electric and still require gasoline.
- The Solterra qualifies for the federal tax credit of up to $7,500 if you meet income and vehicle price limits, though the credit amount varies by trim level.
- Charging at home with a Level 2 charger takes approximately 8 to 10 hours for a full charge, while DC fast charging can add 80 percent range in roughly 30 minutes.
- Subaru plans to expand its electric lineup in coming years, but no official U.S. release dates have been announced for additional models.
The Solterra: specifications and range
The Solterra comes in two main trim levels: Standard and Limited. Both use an 71.4-kilowatt-hour battery pack and offer all-wheel drive as standard. The Standard trim delivers approximately 228 miles of range, while the Limited trim offers similar range depending on driving conditions and driving habits.
The vehicle accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in roughly 7.6 seconds on the Standard model and about 6.7 seconds on the Limited, which has a more powerful motor configuration. Subaru designed the Solterra with a low center of gravity and symmetrical all-wheel drive, which means power distributes to all four wheels for traction in various weather conditions.
Real-world range depends on temperature, terrain, and how you drive. Cold weather can reduce range by 20 to 40 percent compared to mild conditions. Highway driving at higher speeds also uses more battery than city driving with frequent stops.
Charging options and time requirements
Home charging with a Level 2 charger (240 volts) is the most common setup for Solterra owners. A full charge typically takes 8 to 10 hours overnight, which works well if you drive under 100 miles most days. Subaru includes a mobile connector with the vehicle that can plug into a standard 120-volt outlet, though this method charges very slowly—roughly 3 miles of range per hour—and is mainly useful for emergency situations.
DC fast charging at public stations can add 80 percent of the battery in approximately 30 minutes, though the final 20 percent charges more slowly to protect battery health. The Solterra uses the CCS charging standard, which is the most common connector type at public networks across North America. Charging costs vary by location and time of day but typically run lower than gasoline per mile driven.
If you do not have a garage or dedicated parking space, you may need to rely on public charging networks. Apps like PlugShare and ChargePoint show available stations near you and their real-time availability. Some workplaces and apartment complexes also offer charging, which can reduce your dependence on home charging.
Federal tax credit and pricing
The Solterra qualifies for the federal electric vehicle tax credit, which can reduce your tax liability by up to $7,500. However, the credit amount depends on your household income, the vehicle's final assembly location, and the price of the specific trim you purchase. As of 2024, the Standard trim qualifies for the full $7,500, while the Limited trim may may have access to for a reduced amount or none at all, depending on its price.
Income limits explore: single filers cannot exceed $300,000 in modified adjusted gross income, and joint filers cannot exceed $600,000. The vehicle's manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) also has a cap—currently $55,000 for SUVs—which affects which trims remain under the limit. These rules change annually, so check the IRS website or fueleconomy.gov for the current year's requirements before purchasing.
Subaru's pricing for the Solterra starts in the mid-$40,000 range before any credits or incentives. Some states and local utilities also offer additional rebates or tax credits on top of the federal credit, which can lower your out-of-pocket cost further.
How Subaru hybrids differ from the Solterra
The Crosstrek Hybrid and Outback Hybrid are not fully electric vehicles. They use a gasoline engine paired with an electric motor and battery, but the battery is much smaller than the Solterra's and cannot power the vehicle for extended distances. These hybrids cannot plug in to charge—they recharge their battery through regenerative braking and the gasoline engine, similar to how Toyota and Honda hybrids work.
Hybrids are useful if you want better fuel economy than a gas-only vehicle but do not want to deal with charging infrastructure or the higher upfront cost of a fully electric car. The Crosstrek Hybrid and Outback Hybrid typically achieve 35 to 40 miles per gallon combined, depending on driving conditions. However, they still require regular gasoline fill-ups and produce tailpipe emissions, unlike the Solterra.
If you are deciding between a hybrid and the Solterra, consider how far you typically drive daily and whether you have access to home charging. Hybrids work well for mixed driving with occasional longer trips, while the Solterra suits people who drive under 200 miles most days and can charge at home.
Subaru's future electric vehicle plans
Subaru has stated its intention to introduce additional electric models to the U.S. market, including an electric version of the Crosstrek. The company has also hinted at electrifying other popular models in its lineup, but specific release dates and specifications have not been announced. Subaru's parent company, Subaru Corporation, has committed to offering electrified versions of all models by 2030, though this includes hybrids as well as fully electric vehicles.
The automotive industry is moving toward electrification rapidly, and Subaru is investing in battery technology and charging partnerships to support this shift. If you are interested in a Subaru electric vehicle beyond the Solterra, checking the company's official website or contacting a local dealer can provide the most current information on upcoming models and timelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I tow with the Solterra?
The Solterra is not rated for towing in the United States. If towing is important to you, a hybrid or traditional gasoline Subaru would be a better choice. Some electric vehicles from other manufacturers do offer towing capacity, though it typically reduces range significantly.
What warranty does the Solterra battery have?
Subaru covers the battery for eight years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. This covers defects in materials and workmanship. Battery degradation over time is normal and not covered, though most EV batteries retain 80 to 90 percent of their capacity after eight years of typical use.
How does the Solterra perform in snow and ice?
The Solterra's standard all-wheel drive and low center of gravity make it capable in winter conditions. However, cold temperatures reduce battery range by 20 to 40 percent, so plan for shorter driving distances in winter. The vehicle has no engine to provide cabin heat, so it uses battery power for heating, which also reduces range.
Is the Solterra available in all states?
The Solterra is sold nationwide, but availability may vary by dealer and region. Some dealers may have longer wait times than others. Contact your local Subaru dealer to check current inventory and order timelines in your area.
What is the difference between the Standard and Limited trims?
The Limited trim includes a more powerful dual-motor setup for quicker acceleration, upgraded interior materials, and additional technology features like a larger touchscreen. The Standard model uses a single motor and has a longer range estimate due to its lower power output. Both trims offer the same battery size and all-wheel drive capability.