Subaru has entered the electric vehicle market with its first EV crossover, the Subaru Solterra. The collaboration between Subaru and Toyota has resulted in an electric vehicle that stays true to Subaru’s four-wheel drive DNA and offers impressive off-road capabilities. However, the Solterra falls short in certain areas, leaving room for improvement.
One of the drawbacks of the Solterra is its range, which is claimed to be 465km on a single charge. While this is on par with other electric vehicles in the market, real-world tests have shown that it may not always reach that figure. The battery capacity is estimated to be around 65kWh, which is lower than some similarly-sized rivals.
In terms of design, the Solterra closely resembles its Toyota counterpart, the bZ4X, lacking the quirky charm that Subaru is known for. The interior is reminiscent of Toyota as well, with a large center console screen and sturdy plastics. Legroom is ample, but rear passengers may find their knees positioned higher due to the battery stored under the floor.
The Solterra’s performance is decent, with a 0-100km/h time of 6.9 seconds. However, it lacks the agility and excitement that enthusiasts expect from a Subaru. It feels more sedate compared to rivals like the Ford Mustang.
Despite its shortcomings, the Solterra offers impressive off-road capabilities thanks to Subaru’s X-Mode system, which manages acceleration and braking on rough terrain or steep inclines. It instills confidence in drivers tackling challenging conditions.
In conclusion, the Subaru Solterra is a worthy entry into the EV market, bringing Subaru’s four-wheel drive expertise to the table. However, there are areas where it falls short, such as range and handling. Subaru enthusiasts may find it lacking the quirky charm that the brand is known for. Overall, the Solterra has potential, but it needs further development to truly stand out in the competitive EV market.
Sources:
– Article: Automotive Source
– Image: Mario Gómez