Electric SUV Spotlight
The Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra, recent entries into the electric SUV market, have hit a bump in the road—and it’s not just about their relatively modest popularity. A new lawsuit filed in the U.S. Eastern District Court of California brings these vehicles under scrutiny for their 12-volt battery systems. According to a report by Road & Track, the issue pertains to these batteries, which power the accessories rather than the main drivetrain. The problem has allegedly led to repeated failures in vehicles after only limited use, with one documented case involving numerous battery replacements over just 5,000 miles.
Lawsuit Insights
This class-action lawsuit targets the 2023-2025 model years of the bZ4X and Solterra. The court documents primarily focus on claims from the plaintiff, alleging that Toyota and Subaru were well aware of the battery’s shortcomings before the models’ release. Despite this knowledge, they proceeded to sell the cars without informing potential buyers or resolving the issue. Court filings reveal that the plaintiff had their vehicle’s battery replaced twice since March 2023, initially failing within weeks of purchase, then again at around 2,000 miles, and once more at 5,000 miles.
Broader Issues
Additionally, a Solterra owner mentioned similar issues to the NHTSA. The car, acquired as a new lease in December 2024, also experienced two battery failures by January 2025. Despite replacing the battery, issues persisted, according to the owner. Other discussions on Reddit reveal similar complaints, yet the lawsuit lacks clarity on the root cause, posing challenges in establishing Toyota and Subaru’s liability.
Driving Experience
Despite these concerns, it’s worth noting how both the Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra feel on the road. These electric SUVs offer a smooth drive, typical of electric vehicles due to the instant torque provided by electric motors. The bZ4X, with its futuristic design and spacious interior, provides a comfortable ride. The Solterra, being Subaru’s offering, boasts of its trademark all-wheel-drive capability, which might not be necessary for everyone but gives added confidence in unpredictable weather conditions.
Comparing these to other electric or hybrid SUVs in the market like the Ford Mustang Mach-E or Hyundai Ioniq 5, the bZ4X and Solterra might fall short in terms of battery reliability but hold their own in terms of their quiet cabins and the on-road driving feel. Both vehicles offer a ride that competes capably in comfort and handling, making them suitable for daily commuting or road trips across long stretches of highway.
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