Subaru of America has revealed its first-ever all-electric SUV, the 2023 Subaru Solterra, built on the company’s new e-SUBARU Global Platform.
Solterra comes standard with a new Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system that now channels linear output from Subaru StarDrive Technology and includes driver-selectable regenerative modes.
Like other Subaru SUVs, Solterra is equipped with X-MODE, offering increased performance in low-friction and off-road conditions, the automaker said. The all-new model is equipped with Grip Control that incorporates Hill Ascent and Descent Assist and features 8.3 inches of ground clearance and 215 horsepower from front and rear electric motors.
With up to 126 cubic feet of passenger and cargo space, the SUV seats five passengers and has a nearly flat floor. The Solterra offers up to 30 cubic feet of useable cargo space behind the rear seats and also features a 60/40 folding seatback and two-position load floor. The rear gate opening is 41.3 inches wide and available raised roof rails add more cargo-carrying options.
The new Solterra offers a suite of active safety technology including EyeSight Driver Assist Technology and Blind Spot Monitor with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. Also standard is Parking Support Brake which can apply the vehicle’s brakes if an obstacle is detected while reversing.
For the first time in a Subaru, the Solterra is equipped with a 360-Degree Surround-View Camera system. Also new for Subaru, Solterra is equipped with standard Safe Exit Assist. The new safety feature notifies occupants, before exiting the vehicle, of approaching vehicles with an audible and visual warning. Standard multi-element LED Headlights include High Beam Assist. The new SUV comes standard with driver and front passenger frontal airbags; side curtain airbags; side pelvis/torso airbags; and driver and front passenger knee airbags.
The electric SUV can quickly charge just about anywhere with its Level 2 AC and DC fast charging capability, the automaker said and has an estimated range of 220 miles. With DC fast charging, Solterra can charge up to 80-percent of total battery capacity in under an hour. To simplify the charging experience while traveling, mobile apps work with the vehicle’s multimedia system to help locate charging options nationwide, including more than 3,000 DC fast-charging stations, and 38,000 Level 2 charging stations. Charging at home is available with Level 1 or Level 2 compatibilities.
Solterra is equipped with an all-new multimedia system with an available 12.3-in touchscreen. The new system comes standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and an available wireless charging phone dock in the center console.
Smartphone app connectivity includes remote climate control and remote lock/unlocking. The remote climate control system can automatically warm up or cool down the vehicle before departure, even when garaged.
