Just as the jointly developed Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 feature common styling inside and out, Subaru's new Solterra battery-electric crossover revealed at the 2021 Los Angeles Auto Show last fall matches the Toyota model developed alongside it, the BZ4X. Both vehicles are just reaching showrooms, with Subaru on Monday confirming a base price of $46,220 for its model. The Toyota is the more affordable option, starting at $43,215. Both figures include destination.
While the BZ4X name signifies the Toyota as a member of a new BZ family of electric vehicles, the Solterra name is a combination of the Latin words for “sun” and “earth.” We got a chance to get up-close to the new electric crossover in advance of the L.A. Auto Show debut and even see the Solterra do some light off-roading.
2023 Subaru Solterra
2023 Subaru Solterra
The Solterra is close to the Forester in size at 184.6 inches long, 73.2 inches wide, and 64.9 inches tall. It's about 2 inches longer and wider than Subaru's popular compact crossover, but has a 7.0-inch longer wheelbase (112.2 inches). That gives the Solterra excellent back seat room and a mostly flat floor that makes it easier to seat five passengers.
Underpinning the Solterra and BZ4X is a dedicated EV platform. While development of the platform was spearheaded by Toyota, Subaru was tapped for its expertise in all-wheel-drive systems. Hence, both vehicles will feature the familiar "X-Mode" terrain selector for AWD models. Subaru has branded its version of the platform the e-Subaru Global Platform, or eSGP for short. Toyota calls its version the e-TNGA.
2023 Subaru Solterra
In addition to the shared platform, the two have very similar exterior styling. Some of the details like the grilles and headlights are different, but the shape is nearly identical with sharply tapered rear glass and an angular nose. The black cladding on the fenders is too large, instead of making the Solterra look rugged it makes the profile more awkward.
Announced powertrain and battery specs match those of the Toyota. Each features a 71.4-kwh battery pack and buyers will be able to choose from a front-wheel-drive powertrain with 201 hp or an all-wheel-drive setup with 214 hp. U.S. specs for the Subaru don’t make mention of FWD, so it appears only the AWD version of the Subaru will make it to the U.S.. Subaru didn't mention acceleration or top speed figures, but we know the BZ4X offers 0-62 mph times of 8.4 seconds with FWD and 7.7 seconds with AWD. Expect similar for the Subaru.
2023 Subaru Solterra
2023 Subaru Solterra
2023 Subaru Solterra
Subaru estimates range at over 220 miles, but didn't specify charging details other than that fast charging will be possible. Once again we can infer from the Toyota that charging at up to 150 kilowatts is possible, which will enable an 80% charge in 30 minutes. Subaru made no mention of a roof-mounted solar panel, a feature that will also be offered on the BZ4X in some markets that could slightly extend range or power different vehicle features.
Inside, the two vehicles once again look very similar with the same upholstered dashboard and large 12.3-inch touchscreen that sits atop a flowing center console that swoops up to the top of the dash. An elevated digital instrument panel sits behind the steering wheel, which is a problem because the top of the steering wheel cuts off the lower half of the panel. In the BZ4X, the optional steering yoke would solve that problem by removing the top of the wheel but Subaru hasn’t made any mention of a yoke thus far.
2023 Subaru Solterra
Production is being handled at plants in China and Japan.
Lexus is also set to receive an electric crossover sharing underpinnings with the BZ4X and Solterra twins. The Lexus, which also arrives as a 2023 model, is called the RZ. It arrives at showrooms later this year in a single RZ 450e grade promising a more powerful dual-motor, all-wheel-drive system than the BZ4X and Solterra twins.
For more on the Subaru Solterra, read the in-depth reviews at The Car Connection.
