Subaru Solterra costs, pros, cons and common fixes
Country of Manufacture
The Subaru Solterra is assembled in Tsutsumi, Japan, on the e-TNGA electric platform developed in collaboration with Toyota, dedicated to battery-powered compact SUVs.
Quick Overview
The Solterra is a five-door compact electric SUV featuring modern styling, pronounced wheel arches, and a full-width LED light signature. It comes standard with e-4ORCE all-wheel drive, adaptive suspension, and a minimalist cabin with a 12.3″ central touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, and sustainable interior materials.
Powertrain & Performance
| Specification | Details |
|---|
| Motor | 1× rear synchronous electric motor, 150 kW (204 hp) / 265 Nm
2× motors (AWD), 160 kW (218 hp) / 336 Nm |
| Battery Capacity | 72.0 kWh net |
| WLTP Range | 530 km (RWD) / 460 km (AWD) |
| 0–100 km/h | 7.5 s (RWD) / 6.9 s (AWD) |
| Top Speed | 160 km/h |
| WLTP Consumption | 15.2–16.8 kWh/100 km |
| AC Charging | 6.6 kW standard (optional 11 kW) |
| DC Charging | Up to 150 kW (10–80% in ≈30 min) |
Dimensions & Capacity
| Specification | Measurement |
|---|
| Length | 4,690 mm |
| Width | 1,860 mm (excl. mirrors) |
| Height | 1,650 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,850 mm |
| Curb Weight | 2,020–2,080 kg |
| Cargo Volume | 452 L / 1,187 L |
| Ground Clearance | 185 mm |
| Turning Circle | 11.8 m |
Trim Levels & Pricing (Italy)
| Trim | Price (€) |
|---|
| Eco | 49,900 |
| Comfort | 53,900 |
| Premium | 57,900 |
| Style | 60,400 |
(On-the-road price; VAT included, incentives and delivery fees excluded.)
Maintenance & First Services (Indicative Costs)
| Service | Average Cost (€) |
|---|
| 1st Service (1 year or 15,000 km) | 150–200 |
| 2nd Service (2 years or 30,000 km) | 180–230 |
| Front Brake Pads Replacement | 150–180 |
| Front Discs + Pads Replacement | 400–500 |
| Cabin Air Filter Replacement | 80–120 |
| 12 V Auxiliary Battery Replacement | 100–130 |
| Tire Replacement (each) | 120–160 |
Pros
Excellent Range up to 530 km WLTP (RWD)
Standard e-4ORCE AWD for stability and control on all surfaces
Sustainable, High-Tech Cabin with 12.3″ display
Fast DC Charging up to 150 kW (10–80% in ≈30 min)
Good Cargo Space for the segment (452 L)
Cons
Slow AC Charging at 6.6 kW without optional upgrade
Limited Top Speed of 160 km/h
Heavy Weight slightly impacts efficiency
Premium Price compared to some EV competitors
In Summary
The Subaru Solterra merges the robust e-TNGA platform co-developed with Toyota with the versatility of a compact electric SUV: it delivers standard all-wheel drive, WLTP ranges up to 530 km, fast charging, and modern sustainable interiors. Ideal for those seeking an adventurous EV with balanced performance and light off-road capability, it does ask you to accept slower home-charging speeds and a relatively high entry price.
Verdict — Subaru Solterra (Model Year 2025)
Compact Electric AWD SUV · 72.8 kWh Battery (usable ~69 kWh) · Dual Motors 80 kW+80 kW (total 160 kW, 218 hp), 337 Nm · AWD · 0–100 km/h in 6.9 s · DC Charging up to 150 kW
The 2025 Subaru Solterra marks the brand’s entry into the zero-emission SUV market, sharing its platform with the Toyota bZ4X but infusing Subaru’s signature Symmetrical AWD. With compact proportions (4.69 m length, 2.85 m wheelbase, 1.65 m height), it sports a modern design of clean surfaces, pronounced wheel arches, and subtle side contours. The front end features slim full-LED headlights and a closed grille with Subaru’s trademark styling, while the slightly sloped roof lends a dynamic touch.
Inside, the “Open Air” cabin emphasizes brightness and technology: a 12.3″ central touchscreen manages infotainment and climate—complete with Google integration and OTA updates—alongside a 7″ digital instrument cluster. Materials are largely recycled and high-quality, with heated seats standard and optional ventilation. A 452 L cargo area (expandable to 1,406 L) is well laid-out, and a small 20 L frunk provides extra storage for cables and small items.
Key Technical Highlights:
Powertrain: Dual AWD motors, each 80 kW (total 160 kW / 218 hp), 337 Nm; 0–100 km/h in 6.9 s.
Battery & Range: 72.8 kWh (usable ~69 kWh), WLTP range approx. 460 km.
Charging: AC up to 11 kW; DC up to 150 kW, 10–80 % in about 30 min.
Architecture & Ride: Dedicated EV chassis with underfloor battery; MacPherson front and multilink rear suspension for balanced comfort and precision.
ADAS Level 2: Adapted EyeSight system with adaptive cruise, lane-keep assist, autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian/cyclist detection, and assisted parking.
| Category | Strengths | Performs Well | Limitations |
|---|
| Design & Image | Modern, clean lines; distinctive full-LED lighting | Compact proportions for an electric SUV | Less characterful than some rivals |
| Comfort & Space | Bright cabin; heated/ventilated seats | High-quality materials and finishes | Center console and tunnel feel bulky |
| Efficiency & Range | Up to 460 km WLTP; efficient consumption | Adaptive regen optimized for city driving | Real-world range drops at high speeds on highways |
| Driving Dynamics | Responsive AWD; precise handling | Balanced, comfortable ride | Noticeable body roll in fast corners |
| Practicality | 452 L cargo + 20 L frunk; “Simply Clever” storage solutions | Fast charging and battery preconditioning | Frunk limited to small items |
| Infotainment & Connect. | 12.3″ screen with Google built-in; OTA updates | Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto | Some premium features require subscription |
| Safety & ADAS | EyeSight standard | Precise emergency braking and lane-keep assist | Advanced semi-autonomous driving on top trims only |
| Running Costs | Zero “fuel” costs; EV incentives | Lower maintenance vs. ICE | EV service more expensive at specialist workshops |
| Depreciation | Growing EV market; trusted Subaru brand | Stable residual values | Intensifying competition in electric SUV segment |
Who It’s For
Drivers who want a compact electric SUV with Subaru’s renowned AWD confidence, airy interiors, and cutting-edge tech—perfect for daily driving and weekend getaways in any season.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you need greater range or a more distinctive design, consider the Tesla Model Y, Volkswagen ID.4, or Kia EV6.
Recommended Configuration
Ultimate trim with 72.8 kWh battery, 20″ wheels, panoramic roof, V2L module, EyeSight Pro package, and “Solterra Connect” integration—for the best balance of comfort, range, and technology.
