2026 Subaru Solterra EV Arrives in USA with Upgrades


Subaru has gone back to the drawing board for the all-new 2026 Solterra EV after copping plenty of criticism for the outgoing model. The previous Solterra was dreary, not great value, wasn’t especially good looking, and for something co-developed with Toyota and Lexus, lacked finesse. Range was modest, charging slow, and the cabin looked dated.

Now Subaru of America claims it’s fixed those issues. The redesigned Solterra hits U.S. dealers this autumn with more power, more range, and a tech-loaded cabin. Prices start at $38,495 — unchanged from last year — but the spec sheet promises a very different machine.

Performance is up. Premium and Limited trims produce 233 horsepower, while the XT grades pack 338 hp, sprinting to 60 mph in under five seconds. A larger 74.7 kWh battery stretches range to 288 miles, backed by 150 kW DC fast charging — exactly the same as the 2025 model. That’s barely competitive in 2025–2026 terms, especially when compared with more affordable Chinese EVs like the IM 5 and IM 6, which offer 400 kW DC charging, 700 km range, 100 kWh batteries, 4-wheel-steering and crisp, clean, beautifully designed interiors. An 11 kW onboard home charger and a battery preconditioning system help, but don’t expect miracles. The North American Charging Standard does open access to over 15,000 U.S. charging stations — a modest consolation.

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ABOVE: 2026 Subaru Solterra VS 2025 Subaru Solterra

The cabin has been dragged into the present so they say, but with a 14-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, multiple USB-C ports, and dual wireless chargers, is nothing special. Touring XT models add perks like a panoramic roof, ventilated seats, a digital rear-view mirror, and even a radiant leg heater.

Safety remains a strong point. Subaru’s EyeSight suite now includes Emergency Steering Assist, hands-free low-speed driving, and a distraction monitoring system — all aiming to keep the Solterra competitive with other EVs.

Shared Development & Platform The Solterra shares its bones with the Toyota bZ4X, both built on the Subaru Global Platform (or Toyota’s e-TNGA platform) in a Toyota plant in Japan. Electrical and mechanical components, software, interior styling, seats, and even key fobs are shared between the two. The infotainment system uses Toyota software, while other internal features mirror the bZ4X.

Distinct Branding Despite this, Subaru claims its first EV carries signature design elements, branding, and tweaks to make the Solterra its own — though judging from photos, it still looks very familiar. The partnership extends beyond EVs, including vehicles like the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GT86.

Outside, the Solterra wears a sharper face, new lighting signature, illuminated Subaru badge, fresh wheels, and optional two-tone paintwork. Ground clearance remains 8.3 inches, and Subaru’s X-Mode settings help tackle snow, dirt, and mud.

The all-new 2026 Subaru Solterra EV may look better on paper, but in photos, the cabin and exterior still leave questions. Styling won’t win beauty contests, fast charging and range remain inadequate compared to cheaper rivals, and the shared platform makes it feel familiar. Whether U.S. buyers are convinced remains very much an open question.

#Subaru, #AllNewSolterra, #2026Solterra, #EV, #ElectricSUV, #USACars, #SubaruEV, #CarNews

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Written by Alan Zurvas

Alan Zurvas is the founder and editor of Gay Car Boys, Australia's leading LGBTQI+ automotive publication. Before launching GCB in 2008, Alan's automotive writing was published in SameSame.com.au and the Star Observer. With over 16 years of hands-on car reviewing experience, Alan brings an honest, irreverent voice to every review — championing value and innovation over brand loyalty.


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