The Subaru Solterra EV is a conventional, blobular two-row SUV. Photo: Alan Neuhauser
This two-row electric SUV is a monument to sobriety and utility: it doesn't drive too fast, the seats aren't too plush, and the dashboard browbeats drivers who slouch.
Why it matters: If all you need is a car to get from here to there — no frills, no frippery — this may be the ride for you.
Zoom in: It has reasonable interior space, solid balance between physical buttons and touchscreen, and a decent cupholder layout.
Yes, but: The 288-mile driving range pales against similarly priced competitors, such as the 300+ mile Chevy Equinox, Honda Prologue and Tesla Model Y.
- With more range or a lower price, it could've stood out.
The bottom line: The Solterra is OK — unobjectionable, instantly forgettable.
Driving the Solterra
Subaru arranged for a fully charged Solterra to be dropped off at my house outside Providence, R.I.
State of play: I criss-crossed the state, driving local roads and highways, including post-blizzard.
By the numbers:
- Base price: $38,495
- Price as tested: $41,395 for mid-range "Limited" trim with upgraded seats, audio, wheels and power rear-gate.
- Range: 288 miles.
- Charge time: ~30 minutes to the recommended 80%. About standard.
Liked
- Spacious second row — more leg-room than in our three-row Volvo SUV.
- Easy, pleasant driving experience.
- Intuitive infotainment system.
Disliked
- Hair-trigger driver alerts, including (really) a dashboard warning to "sit up."
- Low driving range for the price; seats as stiff as pews.
- Glacial startup sequence; interminable on frigid mornings when all you want to do is begin warming the car.
The bottom line: This is a decent SUV for short- to mid-range trips. You can get more bang for your buck with competitors.
Parents' corner
The Solterra is a reliable family hauler.
Why it matters: Its ample second-row made adding and removing car seats, and buckling tiny passengers, a cinch.
- The lengthy cargo area has plenty of room for groceries. Though if you're packing taller gear — or just more stuff — you may be thwarted by the sharp slope of the rear hatch.
How the sales stack up
The Solterra has seen some of the slowest sales among comparably priced four-door electric SUVs.
Why it matters: We'll see if the Solterra is long for this world.
