2026 Subaru Solterra: Back in Front With the Others
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Denver, Colorado—Launched in 2022, the Subaru Solterra—Toyota bZ4X’s non-identical cousin—is still a fairly rare electric vehicle on Canadian roads. Its limited range and charging capability initially cooled many consumers' enthusiasm. However, the small Japanese automaker is not giving up on its electric push: Subaru plans to introduce two additional electric SUVs to support the Solterra by the end of 2026.
This expanded lineup puts the revised and improved 2026 Solterra somewhere between the urban-focused Uncharted and the adventure-ready Trailseeker. Company executives describe the model as a more upscale electric crossover.
- Also: Refreshed 2026 Subaru Solterra is Classier and Way More Powerful
- Also: 2024 Subaru Solterra: We Found the One Area Where This EV Excels
The mid-cycle update to the Solterra comes with noteworthy enhancements that effectively address some of the biggest shortcomings of the 2023-2024 models. Remember, there was no 2025 model as the automaker preferred to sell off the remaining units.
A More Upscale Look
The changes for 2026 are substantial, yet styling marks a conservative evolution. The most significant tweaks can be found at the front, with a new illuminated badge and LED daytime running lights mirroring those of the brand’s two newcomers. The main headlights are positioned lower, too.
While some trim levels retain black wheel arch cladding, a body-coloured option is newly available. Sporting redesigned 18- or 20-inch wheels, the 2026 Solterra carries an elegance previously unseen in the 2024 model. It's unfortunate, though, that a few brighter colour options are gone from the Canadian order book. According to Subaru, these weren’t popular with the target group.
A More Tech‑Forward Cabin
Inside, the layout remains much the same. The dashboard retains the high-mounted infotainment screen and flat-top, flat-bottom steering wheel—the latter introduced for 2024 to improve forward visibility. However, the centerpiece is the upgraded 14-inch touchscreen (up from 12.3 inches), making it easier for front-row occupants to access vehicle functions. The climate controls are now fully touch-based, but always displayed at the bottom of the screen.
Meanwhile, the centre console has been reconfigured: the gear selector has moved behind a pair of wireless phone chargers. Here’s a tip: add a rubber case to your phone to prevent it from sliding backward under acceleration. Also, we’re glad Subaru has included four USB‑C ports for faster wired charging.
Elsewhere, the Solterra’s cabin remains largely unchanged, with comfortable seating, quality materials and solid build quality, plus a flat rear floor providing generous legroom for second‑row passengers.
Finally, More Power
Cosmetic revisions are nice, but the 2026 Solterra shines even more beneath the surface. Output rises from 215 to 338 horsepower, which is an enormous leap, while range is now estimated at up to 450 km (the 18‑inch wheels are the way to go). Subaru’s electric compact crossover may not lead the pack, but it’s no longer lagging behind, that’s for sure.
Although it stops short of being an electric hot rod—something like the electric equivalent of the departed WRX STI—acceleration and midrange responsiveness are noticeably sharper. During a stretch on a gravel road up in the mountains, with traction control disabled, we even managed to spin the wheels a little.
The drive is enjoyable thanks to lightweight yet precise steering, reduced body roll courtesy of a revised suspension, as well as the aforementioned dose of extra power. Make no mistake: the Solterra remains a family‑oriented SUV. Seating for five, decent cargo room and segment-leading ground clearance make it a strong candidate for families transitioning to electric mobility.
By the way, the U.S. media event included an off‑road segment—mainly to showcase the all‑wheel‑drive system’s capability on moderately challenging terrain. We must admit it’s refreshing to see a city-oriented EV handle so well away from paved roads. The X‑Mode system proved its worth on climbs and descents. By taking over the throttle, it allows drivers to focus on steering.
Better at Charging
Assessing energy efficiency is tricky here because of the driving conditions we faced in Colorado. Few people actually drive up and down the mountain daily. Still, the Solterra’s computer indicated an average of 3.1 miles/kWh (~20 kWh/100 km), a pretty decent figure given the circumstances.
Achieving an additional 100 km of range is fantastic, no doubt, but the faster charging capability makes the SUV even more appealing. The battery can go from 10-80 percent in roughly 30 minutes when plugged into a DC fast charger. Level 2 charging is also faster than it was thanks to a new 11kW onboard charger (previously 7 kW). And while we didn’t test it, the new battery preconditioning system is another factor making the Solterra a more compelling EV for 2026.
No Price Hike for 2026?
As of this moment, Subaru has yet to announce Canadian pricing, but the company assured us that there will be no price increase. Therefore, the 2026 Solterra is expected to start at $56,495 (MSRP), or $60,995 with the Luxury Package and $63,495 with the Technology Package.
Has Subaru done enough to boost sales? The answer is yes. Granted, the platform is the same one that’s been used since 2022, and a bit more innovation would have been appreciated by some, but the numbers speak for themselves: the 2026 Subaru Solterra is now a competitive contender.
