Subaru Solterra EV - big on space, not so big on range

I am still not convinced about this mad rush to Electric Vehicles (EVs). Renewable fuels are coming, battery technology is rapidly changing, and already the EU has rolled back the deadline on banning the sale of combustion-engined cars. 

So petrol and diesel cars are by no means dead yet! EVs will suit some people's motoring needs but those taking longer trips may wish to consider a plug-in hybrid or indeed a petrol or diesel car. This week I am testing the Subaru Solterra a new EV that is the result of a collaboration between Subaru and Toyota. Toyota’s version is called the bZ4X and in all but the badge they are pretty much identical.

First Impressions

Although considered a compact crossover it is quite a substantial-looking car. I like the styling quite a lot and it has a real presence on the road. The black plastic extended wheel arches give it a rugged appearance and with lovely alloy wheels this is a very smart-looking EV.

What is it like inside?

Well like them all now it's digital of course. Not everyone will like the somewhat quirky style of the dashboard but it all works well enough. The steering wheel may though obscure some of the driver's view of the digital instruments depending on the height you need to adjust it to. 

The driving position gives a commanding view of the road ahead and there are numerous features such as multiple cameras (the rear view mirror can be used via a camera or in the conventional manner) a camera to monitor movement from behind to warn of on coming traffic when you go to exit the car and a host of standard kit from wireless charging to heated seats and steering wheel to name but a few.

The cabin is bright and very roomy both front and rear, with multiple storage areas and plenty of charging ports, while the boot is a decent size too offering true practicality for family motoring.

What is under the bonnet?

The Solterra differs from its Toyota sibling in that it is four-wheel drive. So here we have a 71.4kWh battery powering two electric motors one for the front axle and one for the rear. 

Range is a claimed 465 km but beware I could achieve nowhere near that! Sure its winter outside temperatures were on average plus 2C during my week's road test but my carefully monitored figures tell a disappointing story.

From 81% battery charge range estimated was 278KM, I actually achieved 130km! Leaving a range of just 40km when I started to recharge. So in short 170km to empty from 81% a whole 108km less than the car's computer estimated at the start.

It took 40 mins to charge on a high-power public charger to 80% and a further 20 minutes to get from 80 to 90%. Quoted range at 90% was 319km but the moment I switched on the heating and rear window etc (it was frosty) that immediately dropped to 258Km and this was before I even drove away from the charge point!

As I said at the start of this review EVs will not suit everyone and this one will not suit those who need a reasonable range.

What is it like to drive?

Safe and secure with the benefit of all wheel drive if somewhat uninspiring to drive. The supple ride is good and there is not too much body roll but you do feel that mass in excess of two tonnes. It is quiet, most EVs are anyway and it proves a nice place in which to travel.

Verdict

The new Subaru Solterra is a good car and offers plenty in terms of standard kit but its range is its real Achilles heel and a car built for the needs of family motoring needs to offer a better range than this. Prices start at €51,495 version tested Touring model costs €56,495.