Subaru has chosen the Los Angeles Auto Show to introduce the U.S.-spec Solterra. Set to go on sale in the middle of next year, the EV was jointly developed alongside the Toyota bZ4X and features a similar design. However, the Solterra sports a more traditional front fascia with a fully enclosed grille that is flanked by LED headlights and prominent fog lights. The rest of the design is virtually identical to the bZ4X, but the Solterra has revised badging and unique taillights. They’re joined by a split spoiler and options such as roof rails and a panoramic glass roof.
The feeling of déjà vu continues in the
cabin as the interior is almost a mirror image of the bZ4X. As a result, it
features a freestanding digital instrument cluster and a chunky steering wheel.
However, Subaru provided a bit more information as they confirmed the crossover
will be offered with a 12.3-inch infotainment system featuring wireless Apple
CarPlay and Android Auto. Subaru also revealed the model will have a cargo
capacity of up to 850 liters, which can be expanded by folding
the rear seats down. The Solterra promises to be
spacious and that’s not surprising as the bZ4X offers a ton of rear seat
legroom.
Getting back to equipment, the Solterra
will have a host of driver assistance systems including auto high-beam
headlights, a blind spot monitor with lane change assist, and rear
cross-traffic alert. Other safety features include safe exit assist, a surround
view camera system and parking support brake, which can automatically apply the
brakes if an obstacle is detected while reversing. While the Japanese version
of the Solterra is offered with front- and all-wheel drive, the US-spec model
is available exclusively with the latter. It’s a dual motor setup that produces
a combined output of 215 hp and 336 Nm of torque.
Power is provided by a “high-capacity
lithium-ion battery pack,” which presumably has a capacity of 72.8 kWh. Subaru said the crossover should have a range
in excess of 354 km on a single charge. The company also said
fast-charging technology will allow for the battery to be charged to 80 percent
in less than an hour.