Subaru Solterra – sun and earth

THE name Solterra may conjure up images of the latest double layer tropical ice lolly, but in reality it’s far more appetising.

It is actually the first fully electric car from Japanese brand Subaru and the name references the Latin for sun and earth, a reflection of the model’s environmental credentials.

And while the Solterra has a striking presence on the road, anyone spotting a vaguely familiar look to the styling would be very much on the right lines.

That’s because it’s the result of a collaboration between Subaru and Toyota, in much the same way as the pair were jointly responsible for the BRZ and Toyota GT86.

So the Subaru shares much in common with Toyota’s bZ4X electric, though there are some notable variations between the two other than a different grille and headlamps.

Most significant is the fact that, like all Subaru models, the Solterra has a permanent all-wheel drive set-up whereas its close relative just drives the front wheels.

It also has modified suspension and steering as well as something called S-Pedal Drive which allows you to personalise regenerative braking via steering wheel-mounted paddles.

It all adds up to better overall performance for the Subaru off-road or in bad weather while at the same time taking advantage of the Toyota strongpoints of reliability, electronics and strides in safety tech.

That’s in addition to a Sport setting for some keener acceleration, otherwise both cars come with Normal and Eco drive modes and, coupled with an upright driving position, provide a well balanced, smooth and relaxed motoring experience.

And with off-roading in mind, the AWD system includes X-MODE with Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud settings as well as Grip Control and Downhill Assist.

These were engaged when we tackled the steep, slippery slopes on a demanding off-road course in Yorkshire and they worked with comforting assurance.

In entry grade Limited spec running on 18-inch wheels the Solterra has an official range of 291 miles on a full charge, a figure that drops to 257 for our tested Touring model with its 20-inch alloys.

With its high capacity 71.4kWh battery pack the car can be electrified from near empty to 80 per cent in 30 minutes at a public fast charger or if you’re using a home wallbox it’s an overnight job.

A sense of exclusivity apart, what owners get with the Solterra is a really attractive, extensively kitted out and spacious crossover SUV with a light, airy cabin and option of a full length glass sunroof.

Centrepoint of the cabin is a 12.3-inch horizontal touchscreen integrated into the centre console which is itself in a classy piano black finish with bright alloy border. The fabric weave dash surround is also an interesting feature.

There’s also a spring-load lidded mobile phone charging pad (on Touring variants) along with bottle/cup holders in all four doors, plus another pair of cup holders up front and two more in the rear armrest.

As for space, there’s loads of it. Three passengers can travel comfortably in the back because the centre rear position is flat, the back seats split/fold 60:40 and the 452-litre boot, with two-position load floor, is huge.

Safety kit is comprehensive and, for the first time in a Subaru, there’s a 360-degree panoramic view monitor.

There’s lots of standard equipment too, but paying the extra £3K for Touring trim adds some extras like a Harman Kardon eight-speaker sound system, the bigger wheels, electric front seats and some fake leather, though all models get a heat pump to help make winter driving more efficient.