Subaru Solterra MY26: More Power, More Range, Sharper Price
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Subaru’s first battery electric vehicle has been fettled, polished and nudged into the modern era. The MY26 Solterra arrives with more punch, more distance between charges and a cabin that finally feels as clever as the drivetrain. It is still unmistakably Subaru – that stubborn go-anywhere soul wrapped in electric clothing – but with improvements that matter.
Power, Range and Charging
The headline figures are hard to ignore. Dual motors now produce a combined 252 kW, a healthy leap on the previous car, and they deliver the instant shove electric buyers love. Sitting under the floor is a larger 74.7 kWh lithium-ion battery, and WLTP testing pegs the range at up to 566 km for the AWD model and up to 517 km for the Touring variant. If you like long drives and fewer pit stops, that will make you smile.
Charging has been upgraded too. AC charging capability doubles from 11 kW to 22 kW, so a full charge via three-phase AC can be achieved in about four hours. On a 150 kW DC rapid charger, you can go from zero to 80 percent in around 30 minutes.
Platform, Capability and Towing
Beneath the cosmetics sits an improved e-Subaru Global Platform. The benefits are tangible: better handling, a quieter cabin and stronger control from Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. Ground clearance remains generous at 212 mm, and Dual Mode X-Mode with Drive Mode Select lets you tailor traction for gravel, mud or the morning school run.
Towing capacity has been doubled with trailer brakes fitted, rising to 1500 kg, up from 750 kg on the older car. That’s not tractor-trailer territory, but it turns the Solterra into a very practical family SUV for boats, trailers or modest caravans.
Interior and Technology
The cabin gets a welcome modernisation. A new 14-inch infotainment display dominates the dash with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while dual wireless phone chargers keep two devices juiced up without rummaging for cables. Acoustic glass and revised suspension tuning make the drive more composed, and 64-colour ambient lighting linked to drive modes is there for anyone who enjoys mood-setting. Touring variants add a panoramic glass roof, ventilated front seats and a premium Harman Kardon audio system.
Practical details have not been forgotten: a powered tailgate with kick sensor, roof rails and a useful cargo volume in the low 400-litre range mean daily life is covered. Touring also gains a vehicle-to-load 220V/1500W outlet for powering tools or camping gear, which is a neat bit of versatility.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety remains a Subaru priority. The latest driver assistance suite includes Pre-Collision Braking, Emergency Steering Assist, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Lane Tracing Assist, all designed to reduce fatigue and step in when things get tricky. Touring gains Advanced Park Assist and a Panoramic 360° View Monitor for easier parking and low-speed manoeuvres. Behind the tech, the structure is a high-strength safety cell with a broad complement of airbags for occupant protection.
Styling, Wheels and Practical Bits
Styling tweaks give the Solterra a more purposeful look – new headlamp graphics, a reshaped front bumper, rear garnish and fresh 18- or 20-inch wheel designs depending on the model. The overall profile is aerodynamic without losing the rugged tone Subaru owners expect. There are multiple paint options, including a new Altitude Black Mica and some premium finishes available for an extra cost.
Variants, Pricing and Ownership
Two main flavours are available: the Solterra AWD and the more lavish Solterra AWD Touring. Manufacturer’s list prices start from $63,990 for the AWD and $69,990 for the AWD Touring. Ownership is backed by a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty and an eight-year high-voltage battery warranty, plus 12 months of roadside assistance and a capped price servicing program for the early years. Subaru also offers home-charging solutions through its partner network, including professional installation.
In short, the MY26 Solterra keeps Subaru’s all-wheel-drive character but dresses it in electric power and sensible upgrades. It is no niche city toy; it is a practical, capable electric SUV that can handle wet roads, back roads and the odd towing job, while giving you more range and charging flexibility than before.
Zachary Skinner is the editor of TechDrivePlay.com, where tech, cars and adventure share the fast lane.
A former snowboarding pro and programmer, he brings both creative flair and technical know-how to his reviews. From high-performance cars to clever gadgets, he explores how innovation shapes the way we move, connect and live.
