Meet the 2026 Solterra

The 2026 Subaru Solterra made its grand entrance at the New York Auto Show, showcasing a host of upgrades across styling, technology, and performance. Aimed at setting itself apart from its Toyota bZ4x cousin, this latest version of Subaru’s electric vehicle steps up its game with improved range and a suite of modern features. This refresh keeps it competitive among new electric options on the market.
Design Refresh
The exterior of the Solterra now sports a cleaner, more refined appearance. The front end features sleeker LED lights and a more subdued grille, complemented by painted body-color cladding and subtle black trim. While the side and rear remain largely unchanged from its debut in 2022, these updates give the vehicle a fresh and modern look.
Upgraded Performance
One key advantage of the 2026 Solterra is its increased range. Thanks to a new 74.7 kWh battery pack, Subaru boasts a range of over 285 miles on a single charge. That’s a significant upgrade, about 25% more than the previous version. The battery also includes a preconditioning system, ensuring efficient charging in colder climates.
When using a 150 kW charger, the battery can be juiced from 10% to 80% in under 35 minutes. Plus, with the North American Charging Standard (NACS) port now standard, charging at Tesla Supercharger stations is a welcome convenience for Solterra drivers.
Enhanced Driving Experience
The standard all-wheel-drive powertrain sees improvements with a more powerful rear electric motor and better power distribution. With 338 horsepower under the hood, the Solterra shoots from 0 to 60 mph in just under 5 seconds. This kind of performance places it in the same league as many high-performance electric SUVs, providing a responsive and enjoyable driving experience.
The Feel Behind the Wheel
Driving the 2026 Subaru Solterra is an engaging affair. It’s like stepping into a well-designed cockpit that marries technology and functionality perfectly. The initial thrust when accelerating gives a bit of a thrill, much like what one might expect from a car like the Ford Mustang Mach-E. The handling is tight, and the AWD ensures solid traction even when conditions are less than ideal. It’s a vehicle that feels equally at home on a winding mountain road as it does cruising the interstate.
The combination of range and power makes it a top contender for anyone considering a move to electric without compromising on performance or practicality. Updating the Solterra with these features shows Subaru’s commitment to keeping pace with the fast-evolving EV market, and it positions this SUV as a compelling alternative to its electric peers.
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