Subaru Solterra: A Review of the Electric SUV’s Performance and Handling
The Subaru Solterra, a fully electric SUV, has been making waves in theautomotive industry since its launch. Sharing its platform with the Toyota bZ4X, the Solterra offers a unique blend of Subaru’s renowned all-wheel-drive technology and a sleek, futuristic design. We recently had the opportunity to test drive the Solterra in Hong Kong, and here’s our take onits performance, handling, and overall driving experience.
Similarities and Differences with the Toyota bZ4X
While the Solterra and bZ4X are essentially twins under the skin, they sport distinct styling and feature differences. Both SUVs share the same dimensions, including length, width, height, and wheelbase. The interior layout and materials are also largely similar, with the main differentiators being the steering wheel logo and the regenerative braking paddles.
AFuturistic and Functional Interior
The Solterra’s interior design is both minimalist and futuristic. The all-cloth dashboard is a standout feature, offering a sleek aesthetic and a pleasant tactile experience. The 7-inch digital instrument cluster and 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which supports AppleCarPlay, create a sense of a futuristic cockpit. The Solterra also boasts a clear rearview camera, a boon for novice drivers. While the infotainment system might not offer a wide range of features, it covers the essentials like navigation, music, and hands-free calling. The vehicle settings are also straightforward and sufficientfor everyday use.
Spacious Cabin with Room for Improvement
The Solterra offers ample legroom and headroom for rear passengers. However, there is a slight inconvenience as rear passengers cannot fully extend their feet under the front seats. Nevertheless, the seats are comfortable and equipped with Type-C ports and air conditioningvents. Notably, the Solterra lacks a sunroof, which might be a concern for some buyers.
Performance and Handling: A Winning Combination
The Solterra’s exterior design is sharp and angular, emphasizing its rugged and adventurous image. Powering the SUV is a dual-motor all-wheel-drivesystem with an active torque distribution system. It boasts 215 horsepower and 336 Nm of torque, drawing power from a 71.4kWh battery manufactured by Panasonic. According to the WLTP standard, the Solterra offers a range of 465 kilometers, and it can accelerate from0 to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds.
While these figures might not match the performance of previous Impreza WRX and Forester STI models, the Solterra delivers impressive performance and handling. Compared to the bZ4X, the Solterra’s all-wheel-drive systemis a standout feature, offering superior traction and stability. The Solterra also features X-Mode, a selectable off-road driving mode that enhances its off-road capabilities, a hallmark of the Subaru brand.
A Smooth and Comfortable Ride
Our test drive route took us from Kowloon Bay to Ting Kau, allowing us to experience the Solterra’s performance on various road surfaces in Hong Kong. The Solterra’s handling surprised us with its balanced weight distribution and low center of gravity, which kept the car stable even during sharp turns. The suspension, while slightly firm, effectively absorbed road bumps and provided a comfortable ride.
The Solterra’s acceleration is smooth and effortless, even in normal mode. The 200+ horsepower and 330+ Nm of torque easily handle the car’s weight, providing ample power for hill climbs. Subaru’s renowned all-wheel-drive system delivers excellent stability, ensuringa confident driving experience.
One Pedal Drive and Regenerative Braking
The Solterra features a One Pedal Drive function, which allows drivers to control regenerative braking using paddles on the steering wheel. This feature offers four levels of intensity, allowing drivers to customize their braking experience. While some might find the strong regenerativebraking initially jarring, it can be adjusted to a more familiar feel, similar to a gasoline car. This adaptability makes the Solterra a good choice for drivers transitioning to electric vehicles.
Conclusion: A Strong Contender in the Electric SUV Market
The Subaru Solterra offers a compelling package for drivers seeking a spacious, well-equipped, and capable electric SUV. Its impressive handling, comfortable ride, and advanced all-wheel-drive system make it a strong contender in the growing electric SUV market. While the lack of a sunroof and the relatively small cargo space might be drawbacks for some, the Solterra’s overall performance and drivingexperience are truly impressive.
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