Video test – Subaru Solterra (2024): An electric SUV with character?

Subaru is one of the most unusual brands on the market. The mere mention of this name obviously brings to mind the most efficient all-wheel drive systems, but also the powerful and unusual engines, especially the flat four cylinder with turbo, which had the sports versions of the Impreza, among others. We also consider the latter’s World Rally Championship titles in the hands of Colin Mc Rae, Richard Burns and Peter Solberg. We also remember station wagons that still delight mountain dwellers like the Forester, coupes like the original SVX that received a flat six cylinder, like a Porsche 911, but in front.

The sound engine that also powered the Legacy sedan and, more unexpectedly: the 7-seat Tribeca SUV. A dream for the father of a large family. And to keep up with the times when it was necessary, Subaru tried everything, even converting its flat 4 to diesel! And more recently a small hybrid, especially with its new Crosstrek SUV.

Except thatwhen we talk about 100% electricity, It’s not enough. So the brand takes advantage of its partnership with Toyota to launch this “zero-emission” SUV, the twin of bZ4X. The dimensions are obviously the same with a length of 4.69 m and a width of 1.86 m, a size close to the Forester, but with a cutting profile according to the times.

Compared to the Toyota, the Solterra marks its difference in the front and grille with six corners with a black outline, C-shaped daytime running lights and round fog lights under the shield. At the rear, the differences are more subtle as they stick to a different headlight signature, the headlight assembly line is no longer there.

Not spacious everywhere!

Inside the aircraft, passengers will appreciate generous legroom and headroom as well as a comfortable bench-style seat but will notice a large ceiling light without independent reading lights. The amount of luggage seems small considering the size with 452 dm3 declared and unfortunately, no front trunk is planned to improve things. That said, the deep tray allows you to separate the charging cables from the luggage.

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In front, we find the BZ4x furniture, with one nuance: paddles appear behind the steering wheel to easily adjust the energy recovery force during deceleration. The dashboard’s modern, airy design is attractive, as is the warm gray fabric that covers it. Additionally, we appreciate the presence of the climate control console as well as the convenience of the multimedia/GPS system. Alas, it seems that Toyota ergonomists have never boarded the latest Peugeot before considering this instrument at length: clearly it is not raised enough, it can be hidden by the edge of the steering wheel … We will also regret, as in the BZ4x, the complete absence of a glove box.