Subaru's Current Electric SUV Lineup

Subaru makes one fully electric SUV available in the United States: the Solterra, which launched in 2023. It is a mid-size SUV built on Subaru's dedicated electric platform, designed to compete with vehicles like the Volkswagen ID.4 and Kia EV9. The Solterra comes in two trim levels — Standard and Limited — with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive options depending on the trim.

Subaru also sells the Crosstrek Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV), which is not fully electric but runs on battery power alone for short distances before the gas engine engages. This vehicle bridges the gap between traditional hybrids and full electric vehicles, making it useful if you drive mostly short trips but occasionally need longer range without charging stops.

The Solterra is Subaru's main push into the electric market. It seats five passengers, offers around 228 miles of range on a full charge in rear-wheel-drive models, and supports both home charging and public fast-charging networks. Subaru has not announced a timeline for additional fully electric models, though the company has stated plans to expand its EV lineup over the next several years.

Key Takeaways

  • The Solterra is Subaru's only fully electric SUV currently sold in the United States, available in Standard and Limited trims with rear-wheel or all-wheel drive.
  • Solterra range varies by drivetrain: rear-wheel-drive models offer around 228 miles per charge, while all-wheel-drive versions typically deliver less range.
  • The Crosstrek Plug-in Hybrid is an alternative if you want electric driving for daily commutes but need gas backup for longer trips.
  • Subaru's charging network access and home charging setup work through standard Level 2 chargers and public DC fast-charging stations.

Solterra Range, Battery, and Charging Speed

The Solterra uses an 71.4-kilowatt-hour battery pack in the Standard trim and a larger battery in the Limited trim. Real-world range depends on driving conditions, weather, and how you drive — cold temperatures and highway speeds both reduce range compared to EPA estimates. Subaru rates the rear-wheel-drive Standard at approximately 228 miles per charge; all-wheel-drive versions and the Limited trim have different range figures that vary by model year.

Charging at home with a Level 2 charger (240 volts) takes roughly 8 to 10 hours for a full charge, depending on the charger's power output and the battery size. Public DC fast chargers can add 200 miles in about 30 minutes under ideal conditions, though actual speed depends on the charger's power level and the vehicle's charging curve at that moment.

The Solterra works with most public charging networks in the United States. Subaru includes a mobile app that helps you locate nearby chargers and monitor charging status remotely. You can also set charging schedules at home to take advantage of off-peak electricity rates if your utility offers time-of-use pricing.

Solterra Pricing and Available Trims

Solterra pricing varies by model year and trim level. The Standard trim is the entry point, while the Limited trim adds features like a larger touchscreen, upgraded interior materials, and additional safety technology. All-wheel drive is available on both trims and increases the price. Exact pricing changes annually, so you should check Subaru's official website or contact a dealer for current figures.

Federal tax credits may reduce the out-of-pocket cost if you meet income and vehicle price requirements set by the U.S. government. Some states offer additional rebates or tax credits for electric vehicle purchases. Your dealer can explain which incentives explore to your situation based on your location and income level.

Solterra Performance and Driving Experience

The Solterra accelerates smoothly from a standstill because electric motors deliver maximum torque when ready, unlike gas engines. The all-wheel-drive version produces more total power than the rear-wheel-drive model. Regenerative braking — which captures energy when you slow down and returns it to the battery — is standard and reduces wear on the brake pads over time.

The vehicle handles like a traditional SUV but sits lower to the ground than some competitors because the battery pack is mounted in the floor. This design improves handling and lowers the center of gravity. The ride is quiet since there is no engine noise, which some drivers find relaxing and others find unusual at first.

Subaru included all-wheel-drive capability on higher trims, which provides traction in snow and on unpaved surfaces. The Solterra is not designed for serious off-roading, but it performs well on winter roads and light gravel compared to rear-wheel-drive electric SUVs.

Crosstrek Plug-in Hybrid as an Alternative

If you are uncertain about committing to a fully electric vehicle, the Crosstrek Plug-in Hybrid offers a middle ground. It has a battery that powers the vehicle for roughly 40 to 50 miles on electric charge alone, which covers most daily commutes. Once the battery depletes, a gas engine engages and the vehicle operates like a traditional hybrid, so you never face a dead battery on the road.

The Crosstrek PHEV costs less than the Solterra and does not require access to a public charging network for daily use. You charge it at home overnight and drive electric during the day. On longer trips, the gas engine handles the distance without stopping to charge. This setup works well if your commute is short but you take occasional road trips.

The trade-off is that you still buy and maintain a gas engine, pay for gasoline, and produce emissions on longer drives. The Solterra produces zero tailpipe emissions at all times, though the electricity powering it comes from your regional power grid's mix of sources.

Maintenance and Long-Term Ownership Costs

Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts than gas-powered cars, which means lower maintenance costs over time. The Solterra does not need oil changes, spark plug replacements, or transmission fluid service. Brake pads last longer because regenerative braking does most of the stopping work. Tire wear is similar to gas vehicles, and tires should be rotated and replaced on a normal schedule.

Battery degradation is gradual and normal. Subaru covers the battery under warranty for eight years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. Real-world data shows that most EV batteries retain 85 to 90 percent of their capacity after eight years of normal use. If you plan to keep the vehicle beyond the warranty period, battery replacement is expensive, though prices are declining as the technology matures.

Insurance costs for the Solterra are comparable to gas SUVs of similar size and price, though some insurers charge slightly more for electric vehicles due to repair complexity. Contact your insurance company for a quote before purchasing to understand the actual cost in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Solterra compare to the Tesla Model Y?

The Solterra and Model Y are both mid-size electric SUVs, but they differ in price, range, and charging speed. The Model Y typically offers longer range and faster acceleration, while the Solterra emphasizes Subaru's all-wheel-drive capability and interior comfort. The Model Y has access to Tesla's proprietary Supercharger network, while the Solterra uses standard public charging networks. Test drive both to see which fits your needs and budget.

Can I tow a trailer with the Solterra?

The Solterra is not rated for towing. If you need to tow a boat, camper, or utility trailer, the Crosstrek Plug-in Hybrid or a traditional gas-powered Subaru SUV would be better choices. Towing significantly reduces electric range and puts stress on the battery, which is why most manufacturers do not rate their electric SUVs for towing.

What happens if I run out of battery on the road?

Unlike gas vehicles, you cannot straightforward refuel at a nearby station. If the battery depletes, you must charge at a public charger, which takes 30 minutes to several hours depending on the charger type. Plan trips using the Solterra's navigation system or a charging app to locate chargers along your route. Most owners rarely encounter this situation because they charge at home and plan longer trips in advance.

Is the Solterra worth buying if I live in a cold climate?

The Solterra works in cold climates, but range decreases in freezing temperatures — typically by 20 to 40 percent depending on how cold it gets. The vehicle has a heat pump that warms the cabin efficiently, and you can precondition the battery while plugged in at home. If you have access to home charging and your daily commute is well within the reduced winter range, cold weather is manageable. If you frequently take long trips in winter without charging infrastructure nearby, a plug-in hybrid may be more practical.

Does Subaru offer a warranty on the battery?

Yes. Subaru covers the Solterra battery for eight years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. This covers defects and significant degradation, though normal gradual capacity loss is not covered. The warranty terms may vary by state, so ask your dealer for the specific coverage in your location.