The 2026 Subaru Solterra: A Refined Electric Crossover with a Curious Road Trip Blind Spot
For years, the automotive industry has embraced the Japanese philosophy of “kaizen”—continuous improvement. It’s a principle that’s deeply embedded in the success of Japanese automakers, and it’s precisely what the first generation of Toyota and Subaru’s joint electric venture, including the Subaru Solterra, desperately needed. While these initial offerings aimed to leverage the popularity of established models like the Toyota RAV4 and Subaru Forester, they stumbled out of the gate. Early iterations of the Solterra were hampered by unimpressive range figures, painfully slow DC fast-charging capabilities, and a distinct lack of crucial EV software features, such as intelligent route planning. The unfortunate reality was that its Toyota counterpart, the bZ4X, shared these same shortcomings.
However, the automotive landscape is ever-evolving, and for the 2026 model year, Subaru’s electric crossover—which is slated to be joined by two additional electric models in the near future—is poised to benefit from a series of significant enhancements. This revised Solterra represents a substantial leap forward, emerging as a considerably more capable EV than its predecessor. Yet, despite these advancements, a puzzling omission persists, one that could still cast a shadow over the prospect of long-distance electric travel.
(Full Disclosure: For the purpose of this comprehensive review, Subaru provided a 2026 Solterra for a week of in-depth testing.)
2026 Subaru Solterra: Key Specifications and Features
At its core, the 2026 Subaru Solterra remains a testament to the collaboration with Toyota. It’s manufactured in a Toyota facility and then distinguished by Subaru’s signature styling cues and an enhanced suite of off-road driving modes. Crucially, this partnership means the Solterra inherits the same technological and engineering upgrades implemented in Toyota’s latest EV offerings.
A notable enhancement for all Solterra trims is the slight increase in battery capacity, now residing at 74.7 kilowatt-hours. This addresses the prior model’s rather underwhelming EPA estimated range of just 225 miles. Thanks to this expanded battery, improved cell insulation, and an upgraded thermal management system, the 2026 Solterra now boasts an impressive EPA estimated range of up to 285 miles, with specific figures varying slightly by trim level. My test vehicle, the top-tier Touring XT, carried an EPA rating of 278 miles, and in real-world testing, it largely lived up to this promise. Even when subjected to the chilly temperatures of upstate New York, the Solterra managed to cover 255 miles on a full charge, a performance well within acceptable winter range-loss parameters for an electric vehicle.
All-wheel drive (AWD) is a standard offering across the Solterra lineup. Its inherent off-road predispositions, coupled with a slightly elevated ground clearance, naturally make it less aerodynamically efficient than its front-wheel-drive Toyota counterpart. The FWD Toyota bZ4X, for instance, is EPA estimated to achieve up to 314 miles of range.
Under the hood, or rather, within the electric drivetrain, significant power gains are evident. Upgraded front and rear electric motors, now incorporating silicon carbide semiconductors, contribute to a robust 338 horsepower. This translates to a brisk 0-to-60 mph acceleration time of just under five seconds. This level of performance is not only quicker than most gasoline-powered crossovers but also competitive within the mainstream EV segment.
A welcome development for charging convenience is the adoption of the North American Charging Standard (NACS) plug, replacing the previous CCS connector. This transition promises more seamless, adapter-free access to Tesla Supercharger stations. While an adapter will still be necessary for utilizing existing CCS chargers, the move towards NACS is a significant step for drivers who prioritize the simplicity and widespread availability of this connector. This particular upgrade makes the 2026 Subaru Solterra NACS adoption a key point for many potential buyers.
2026 Subaru Solterra: The Driving Experience
Despite some of the criticisms leveled against earlier Toyota EVs, they consistently delivered an engaging driving experience, and this characteristic is amplified in the 2026 Solterra. Engineers have clearly invested considerable effort into the vehicle’s chassis tuning and handling dynamics. It doesn’t possess the substantial heft often associated with some General Motors EVs, and it exhibits a degree of cornering agility that surpasses the average Hyundai Ioniq 5. Combined with the boosted power output, the Solterra offers an exhilarating edge that many traditional gasoline-powered Subarus lack. This is no small feat for a family crossover that tips the scales at approximately 4,510 pounds. The regenerative braking system offers four distinct levels, controllable via steering wheel-mounted paddles, though it’s important to note that it does not bring the vehicle to a complete stop autonomously.
While the Solterra might not fit the traditional mold of what some consider a “true” Subaru, its low, elongated, wagon-like silhouette aligns perfectly with the brand’s heritage. This design language is undeniably Subaru’s forte, allowing the Solterra to blend seamlessly into the lineup, perhaps even being mistaken for an Outback or a Forester at a glance. Its styling remains relatively understated, flying somewhat under the radar. Though initially skeptical of the revised grille design based on pre-release imagery, in person, it presents a rather sharp and refined aesthetic.
The real draw for those opting for the Subaru over its Toyota counterpart lies in the enhanced X-Mode terrain management system. This includes specific settings for Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud, complemented by an integrated hill descent control feature. While I didn’t have the opportunity to test its rock-crawling capabilities, I did navigate wet, unpaved roads and experienced unexpected snowfall during my test period. Even on all-season tires, the Solterra performed with remarkable confidence. Regardless of its manufacturer, its ability to handle adverse weather conditions is undeniably Subaru-esque.
The interior of the 2026 Solterra is equally commendable. The cockpit has been redesigned to move away from a somewhat aggressive, fighter-jet-inspired aesthetic, and crucially, the steering wheel no longer obstructs the central driver display—a display that, admittedly, appears somewhat dated in the context of late 2025 technology. While the cabin itself isn’t overtly luxurious, it features a refreshing abundance of physical switches and buttons, making operation intuitive and user-friendly. The distinctive blue accents found in the Touring XT trim offer a welcome departure from the ubiquitous black and gray interiors often found in many Subaru vehicles.
Furthermore, while the Solterra’s platform doesn’t accommodate a front trunk (frunk), it provides a practical 27.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to a generous 63.5 cubic feet when those seats are folded down. This makes it exceptionally well-suited for transporting family gear and luggage. In many respects, the 2026 Subaru Solterra embodies the ideal: a competent, everyday vehicle that simply happens to be electric. It avoids the pitfalls of being an overpowered, exorbitantly priced technological marvel, and it feels remarkably familiar to anyone accustomed to driving a conventional Toyota or Subaru crossover. This blend of familiarity and electrification is a significant selling point, especially for those new to electric vehicle ownership in the US.
2026 Subaru Solterra: Technology and Charging
It’s common knowledge that the primary stumbling block for the previous generation of the Solterra and bZ4X was the challenge of undertaking long road trips. Their notorious slowness at DC fast-charging stations and an inability to consistently deliver rapid charging sessions on the same day were significant drawbacks. However, the engineering team behind the 2026 model has clearly listened to this feedback and implemented a more refined approach.
While the peak charging speed remains a respectable, though not class-leading, 150 kilowatts, the overall charging performance has seen dramatic improvements. Whereas earlier versions of the Solterra could take upwards of an hour for a substantial fast-charge, Subaru claims an 80% charge can now be achieved in just 28 minutes. This is accomplished with the added benefit of a larger battery providing more usable range upon completion. This charging speed is now on par with competitors like the Tesla Model Y and outpaces comparable EVs from General Motors and Ford.
During my testing, I observed the Solterra charge from 16% to 80% in approximately 25 minutes at a Tesla Supercharger station. This performance exceeded my experiences with other EV brands utilizing the same charging infrastructure. As an additional benefit, AC charging capabilities have been boosted to 11 kW, provided you can locate a charging station that supports this higher power output. For those considering new Subaru EV models, this charging enhancement is crucial.
At this juncture, you might be asking: if the 2026 Solterra is so significantly improved, what’s the lingering issue? The challenge isn’t with the charging hardware itself, but rather with the vehicle’s ability to effectively locate compatible charging stations. The Solterra’s software suite appears to have been largely ported from a gasoline-powered Toyota, with only minor additions for EV-specific functions. The critical deficiency is that its navigation system is still incapable of identifying the most suitable and readily available EV fast chargers in the vicinity.
Perhaps more critically, when inputting a destination into the navigation system, there is no integrated information regarding when and where charging stops are necessary. Embarking on a journey from, for instance, New York City to Washington D.C., the system will provide an estimated time of arrival as if it were a gasoline-powered vehicle. However, if you deplete your battery’s charge, you are essentially left to your own devices. The only guidance provided is a generic notification: “You’ll need to charge at some point.” This lack of proactive guidance is a stark contrast to what is expected from modern electric cars with advanced navigation.
While the EV-specific features are not entirely absent—you can monitor energy consumption, manually engage battery preconditioning, and schedule charging sessions—the absence of comprehensive EV route planning is a significant and frankly baffling oversight in an otherwise vastly improved vehicle. It’s worth noting that the Toyota bZ4X does offer route planning capabilities through Apple Maps, which is nicely integrated into Apple CarPlay. Many drivers, myself included, would likely prefer using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto over the native navigation systems of these vehicles. However, this integrated Apple Maps functionality is not yet available for the Subaru Solterra. The reason for this discrepancy remains unclear. After spending considerable time searching for this feature and even inquiring with a Subaru representative, the response was telling:
“We are continually exploring avenues to enhance the driver experience in our vehicles. At present, Subaru does not have definitive plans to implement route planning that incorporates real-time battery data,” a representative stated. “However, should a driver select a destination that exceeds the vehicle’s projected battery range, the system will provide a notification on the head unit to alert the driver.”
I sincerely hope that Subaru finds a way to integrate true EV route-planning capabilities into the Solterra. It’s difficult to identify any contemporary electric vehicle that does not offer this essential function. Despite thoroughly enjoying my time driving the new Solterra—and I genuinely did—it evoked a sense of déjà vu. I was transported back to my experiences in 2018, navigating New York City in a Chevrolet Bolt and dedicating a considerable portion of my day to searching for non-Tesla charging stations. While numerous smartphone applications, including Google Maps within Apple CarPlay, can assist in locating chargers, the fundamental question remains: why should drivers be burdened with this extra step? This is a crucial consideration for anyone researching new electric SUV options.
2026 Subaru Solterra: Pricing and Final Verdict
The 2026 Subaru Solterra carries a competitive starting price of $38,495. The upscale Touring XT trim begins at $45,855. My fully equipped test vehicle did not include a final MSRP, but given its minimal optional extras, it’s safe to assume its retail price hovers around the $46,000 mark.
For this investment, buyers receive a competent, NACS-equipped, all-weather electric crossover that promises to surprise many at traffic lights. Furthermore, it delivers an EV experience that feels remarkably familiar and accessible to virtually anyone accustomed to driving a standard crossover. However, for the time being, the deficiency in route-planning capabilities presents too significant a compromise. What is the tangible benefit of the NACS plug upgrade and access to Tesla Supercharger networks if the vehicle itself cannot effectively guide you to them? This is a critical point for potential buyers looking at subaru electric vehicle deals and the overall value proposition of the 2026 Subaru Solterra range.
For those who prioritize Subaru’s reputation for capability and all-weather prowess in an electric package and whose driving habits primarily involve shorter commutes or easily planned routes, the 2026 Solterra represents a compelling upgrade. However, if long-distance road-tripping is a primary use case, prospective buyers may wish to explore alternatives or await a future software update that addresses this glaring omission. The potential for this vehicle is immense, and the missing piece is a solvable software puzzle. We encourage you to visit your local Subaru dealership to experience the advancements firsthand and discuss how the 2026 Solterra might fit your driving needs, while keeping this important road-tripping caveat in mind.
