Shortly after Toyota unveiled its all-electric bZ4X prototype, Subaru said it would launch a model named Solterra based on the same platform. The bZ4X debuted in production form in early November, and the Solterra has followed its example now – although if you have seen that premiere, you won’t be losing much if you skip this one.
Compared to its twin the bZ4X, the Solterra sports a stylized hexagonal grille serving a purely ornamental purpose, new headlight patterns, a lower front air intake, round anti-fog lamps, and some underbody protection. Things stay completely the same inside, including the raised digital dash, the square infotainment screen and the details. Cover the badge on the steering wheel, turn off the infotainment logo, and you will never know if it’s a Toyota or a Subaru.
Both cars come based on the e-TNGA platform co-developed by the two companies. The traction battery lies under the floor and give up to 460 km (285 miles) once fully charged. Dual electric motors output 218 PS (215 hp / 160 kW) combined. Unlike the bZ4X, the Solterra features an off-road assist feature called AWD X-mode, which makes use of Grip Control ABS.