2025 Subaru Solterra

Subaru is known for no-nonsense SUVs with standard full-time all-wheel drive. Its cars frequently rank near the top of Consumer Reports’ Owner Satisfaction and reliability ratings, making some used Subarus a good choice. Along with all-wheel drive, Subarus are known for using a “boxer” style four-cylinder engine with opposing pistons that move horizontally. The design reduces vibration and gives the vehicle a low center of gravity. No Subaru would be considered luxurious, but most have options like heated seats and leather upholstery. Unfortunately, blind spot warning (BSW) and rear cross traffic warning (RCTW) are often optional, so buyers must pay extra for important safety features. Subaru hasn’t offered a hybrid since the plug-in hybrid Crosstrek was discontinued in 2024. The Solterra, a pure EV based on the Toyota bZ4x, charges slowly and has short range. Popular sports cars like the WRX and BR-Z show the brand’s wilder side.

The Solterra is Subaru's first-ever electric vehicle and is essentially a Toyota bZ4X. It comes with front and rear motors to form an all-wheel-drive system. It has a functional small-SUV interior, but its estimated range of 222 miles is shorter than the competition's. The power is smooth and predictable, but with 215 hp the Solterra is behind the competition. Handling is agile, and the ride is mostly comfortable. Oddly, there is no glove box or a rear wiper. With a weak 6.6-kilowatt onboard charger, home charging is on the slow side. DC fast charging in public places, with a maximum acceptance rate of 100 kW, is also on the skimpy side. AEB with pedestrian detection, AEB highway, BSW, and RCTW come standard.