Quick Answer: The Subaru Solterra (introduced for the 2023 model year, developed alongside the Toyota bZ4X) is Subaru's first battery-electric vehicle. If you're searching for a "Subaru EV 2022," you're likely looking at early Solterra listings or pre-release information. The 2023 Solterra delivers an EPA-estimated 222–228 miles of range depending on trim, a 71.4 kWh (usable ~65.6 kWh) lithium-ion battery, and peak DC fast charging around 100 kW. In 2026, the Solterra remains a capable AWD electric crossover for Subaru loyalists, but its range and charging speed lag behind competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Tesla Model Y. Used 2023 models now start around $22,000–$28,000, making them a value play if you understand the trade-offs.
What Exactly Is the Subaru Solterra? (And Why "2022" Is a Misnomer)
Subaru announced the Solterra in late 2021 and began U.S. deliveries in late 2022 as a 2023 model-year vehicle. There is no "2022 Subaru Solterra" in the traditional sense — any listing showing a 2022 model year is either a registration quirk or mislabeled. The Solterra was co-developed with Toyota on the e-TNGA platform and is mechanically a twin to the Toyota bZ4X, though Subaru tuned the suspension, AWD system, and off-road modes (X-MODE) to its own specifications.
For 2026, Subaru has continued to refine the Solterra with incremental updates, but the core powertrain and battery architecture from the 2023 launch remain relevant. If you're shopping used or certified pre-owned, the 2023 and 2024 model years are what you'll encounter.
Range, Battery, and Charging: The Numbers That Matter
The Solterra's efficiency and charging profile are where buyers need clear expectations. Here's the full spec breakdown:
| Specification | 2023–2024 Subaru Solterra |
|---|---|
| EPA Range (Premium/Limited trim, 18" wheels) | 228 miles |
| EPA Range (Touring trim, 20" wheels) | 222 miles |
| Real-World Highway Range (est.) | ~185–200 miles |
| Real-World Cold-Weather Range (est., 20°F) | ~155–175 miles |
| Battery Capacity (gross / usable) | 71.4 kWh / ~65.6 kWh |
| Battery Chemistry | NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt) |
| Peak DC Fast Charge Rate | ~100 kW (early models); ~130 kW (updated) |
| 10–80% DC Fast Charge Time | ~56 minutes (early); ~35 minutes (updated) |
| Level 2 AC Charging (240V) | 6.6 kW onboard charger (~9.5 hrs, 0–100%) |
| Level 1 AC Charging (120V) | ~1.4 kW (~4 miles/hour) |
| MPGe (Combined, Premium trim) | 104 MPGe |
| Efficiency | 32 kWh/100 miles |
| Drivetrain | Dual-motor AWD, 215 hp, 249 lb-ft torque |
| 0–60 mph | ~6.5 seconds |
| Battery Warranty | 8 years / 100,000 miles (70% capacity retention) |
Real-World Range Reality: The EPA rates the Solterra at 228 miles, but expect roughly 185–200 miles on sustained highway driving at 70+ mph, and as low as 155–175 miles in sub-freezing temperatures. The Solterra uses a resistive cabin heater on early models rather than a heat pump, which increases energy draw significantly in cold weather. Plan road trips around ~170-mile legs for a comfortable buffer.
Solterra vs. Gas Subaru: A Real Cost Comparison
Many Solterra shoppers are cross-shopping against the Subaru Outback or Forester. Here's how the economics stack up over five years, assuming 12,000 miles/year and national average energy prices:
| Cost Category | Solterra (Used 2023, ~$25K) | 2025 Subaru Outback (AWD, ~$32K MSRP) |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | ~$25,000 | ~$32,000 |
| Federal Tax Credit (§30D, if eligible) | Up to $4,000 (used EV credit, income-capped) | $0 |
| Effective Purchase Price | ~$21,000 | ~$32,000 |
| Fuel/Energy Cost (5 yrs, 60K mi) | ~$3,600 (home charging, $0.14/kWh avg) | ~$9,000 (28 MPG combined, $3.50/gal) |
| Maintenance (5 yrs) | ~$600 (tire rotations, cabin filter, fluid top-offs) | ~$3,200 (oil changes, brakes, fluids) |
| Insurance (5 yrs, avg) | ~$9,500 | ~$7,800 |
| Estimated Depreciation (5 yrs) | ~$12,000 | ~$14,500 |
| Total 5-Year Cost | ~$46,700 | ~$66,500 |
Sources: fueleconomy.gov — 2023 Subaru Solterra; AAA Your Driving Costs 2024; national average electricity rate per EIA. Individual results vary by state, driving habits, and electricity rates.
The Solterra wins on operating costs decisively — roughly $5,400 less in fuel and maintenance over five years. However, insurance premiums run 15–25% higher for EVs on average, and used EV depreciation has been steeper than gas counterparts in 2024–2025. Your actual savings depend heavily on your electricity rate and whether you charge at home.
Home Charging vs. Public Charging: What First-Time Buyers Must Know
The single biggest factor in Solterra satisfaction is home charging access. Here's the practical breakdown:
If You Have Home Charging (Level 2, 240V)
- A full 0–100% charge takes roughly 9.5 hours at 6.6 kW — easily overnight.
- Level 2 home charger installation typically costs $800–$2,500 (charger unit + electrician + permit), assuming your electrical panel has capacity. A panel upgrade from 100A to 200A can add $1,500–$3,500.
- Daily charging cost: roughly $3.50–$5.00 for a full charge at the national average of ~$0.14/kWh (using ~65 kWh usable).
- Cost per mile: approximately $0.045–$0.06, versus $0.12–$0.15/mile for a gas Subaru.
If You Rely on Public Charging
- DC fast charging at Electrify America or EVgo costs $0.35–$0.55/kWh, pushing your per-mile cost to $0.11–$0.18 — comparable to or exceeding gas.
- The Solterra's ~100 kW peak charge rate (early models) means a 10–80% session takes roughly 56 minutes. Later updates improved this to ~35 minutes, but it still lags behind the Hyundai Ioniq 5's 18-minute 10–80% at 240 kW peak.
- The Solterra uses the CCS1 connector. Subaru has committed to NACS adoption for future models, but current Solterras require a CCS-to-NACS adapter for Tesla Supercharger access (verify adapter compatibility with your model year before purchasing).
Decision Framework — Should You Buy the Solterra?
Choose the Solterra if:
- You have reliable Level 2 home charging and a daily commute under 60 miles round-trip.
- You want Subaru's AWD system and X-MODE for light off-road or snow driving.
- You're buying used and can get a 2023 model under $26,000, potentially stacking the $4,000 used-EV tax credit.
- You value EyeSight driver assistance (SAE Level 2 — you must remain engaged and supervise at all times).
Look elsewhere if:
- You regularly drive 300+ miles between stops — the real-world ~190-mile highway range creates tight margins.
- You lack home charging and live in an area with sparse public DC fast chargers.
- You need fast road-trip charging — the Ioniq 5, Ioniq 6, or Tesla Model Y charge 2–3x faster.
- You tow — the Solterra is rated for only 2,000 lbs, versus 3,500+ for some competitors.
Tax Credits and Incentives: What You Can Actually Claim
The federal tax credit landscape for the Solterra depends on whether you're buying new or used:
New Solterra (§30D New Clean Vehicle Credit)
As of 2026, the new Solterra's eligibility for the full $7,500 federal tax credit depends on battery sourcing and critical minerals requirements that have tightened under current IRS rules. Key constraints:
- MSRP cap: SUVs must be under $80,000 (Solterra qualifies — base MSRP ~$44,995).
- Income cap: $150K single / $300K joint filers.
- Battery sourcing: Critical minerals and battery components must meet phased-in domestic/FtA-country thresholds. Verify current-year compliance at IRS.gov §30D guidance, as these requirements change annually.
- Point-of-sale transfer: Eligible buyers can apply the credit as a down-payment reduction at the dealer.
Used Solterra (§25E Previously-Owned Clean Vehicle Credit)
This is where the used Solterra shines. If you buy a qualifying used Solterra from a dealer:
- Credit amount: 30% of sale price, up to $4,000.
- Income cap: $75K single / $150K joint filers (lower than the new-vehicle credit).
- Sale price cap: Vehicle must sell for $25,000 or less.
- Dealer requirement: Must be purchased from a licensed dealer (private sales don't qualify).
At a $24,000 sale price, the used credit yields $4,000, dropping your effective cost to $20,000 — exceptional value for an AWD electric crossover.
Common Misconceptions About the Solterra
| Myth | Fact |
|---|---|
| "The Solterra has 228 miles of range, so I can drive 228 miles." | EPA range assumes mixed driving. Sustained highway speeds of 70+ mph typically yield 185–200 miles. In cold weather (below 30°F), expect 155–175 miles. Always plan with a 15–20% buffer. |
| "It charges at 100 kW, so it's fast." | Peak charge rate is not sustained. The battery management system tapers charging speed significantly above 60–70% state of charge. A 10–80% session on early models takes ~56 minutes — far slower than the 18–25 minutes competitors achieve at 200+ kW peak. |
| "Subaru's AWD means it's as capable as a gas Outback off-road." | X-MODE and 8.3 inches of ground clearance handle snow, gravel, and light trails well. But the Solterra's weight (~4,500 lbs), lower approach angle, and lack of low-range gearing mean it's not a replacement for serious off-roading. |
| "The battery will need replacing in a few years." | Subaru warranties the battery for 8 years/100,000 miles against degradation below 70% capacity. Real-world NMC degradation data from similar platforms suggests ~10–15% capacity loss over 100,000 miles with normal use. A full battery replacement (if out of warranty) runs $12,000–$18,000, but most owners will never need one. |
| "EyeSight means the car drives itself." | Subaru's EyeSight system is an SAE Level 2 driver-assistance feature. It provides adaptive cruise control and lane centering, but you must keep your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road at all times. It is not autonomous driving. |
2023–2024 Solterra Trim Pricing and What to Pay in 2026
| Trim | Original MSRP (2023) | Estimated Used Price (2026) | EPA Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Premium | $44,995 | $21,000–$25,000 | 228 miles |
| Limited | $48,495 | $24,000–$28,000 | 228 miles |
| Touring | $51,995 | $27,000–$32,000 | 222 miles |
The Premium trim offers the best range and the lowest entry price. The Touring trim's 20-inch wheels reduce range by 6 miles and add weight, but include ventilated seats, a panoramic roof, and upgraded audio. For value-conscious buyers, the Limited strikes the best balance: heated seats, a 12.3-inch infotainment display, and the same 228-mile range as the Premium.
Used pricing reflects Q1 2026 market data from major listing platforms. Actual prices vary by mileage, condition, and region. Verify battery state of health (SoH) before purchasing — ask the dealer for a battery diagnostic report.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a 2022 Subaru Solterra?
No. The Solterra was announced in late 2021, but U.S. customer deliveries began in late 2022 as a 2023 model-year vehicle. Any "2022" listing is likely a data entry error or refers to the model's announcement year. You'll find 2023 and 2024 model years in the used market.
How does the Solterra compare to the Toyota bZ4X?
They share the e-TNGA platform, battery, and powertrain. The Solterra comes standard with dual-motor AWD on all trims (the bZ4X offers FWD on lower trims), and Subaru includes X-MODE off-road software. The bZ4X FWD variant achieves a slightly higher EPA range (up to 252 miles) due to lower weight and single-motor efficiency. Pricing and used-market values are similar.
Can I charge the Solterra at Tesla Superchargers?
The Solterra uses the CCS1 connector. As of 2026, Tesla has opened portions of its Supercharger network to non-Tesla EVs via the "Magic Dock" built-in adapter at select stations, or you can use a third-party CCS-to-NACS adapter. Confirm compatibility with your specific adapter and model year before relying on this for travel. Subaru's next-generation EVs are expected to adopt NACS natively.
What does it cost to charge a Solterra at home?
Using the national average electricity rate of ~$0.14/kWh and the Solterra's ~65.6 kWh usable battery, a full charge costs approximately $9.20. If you drive 40 miles daily (consuming ~13 kWh), your daily charging cost is roughly $1.80. Over a year at 12,000 miles, expect to spend $550–$750 on electricity for home charging — versus $1,800–$2,200 for gasoline in a comparable Subaru Outback.
Should I buy a used Solterra or a new one?
A used 2023 Solterra at $22,000–$25,000 with the $4,000 used-EV credit (if you qualify) is arguably the strongest value in the Solterra lineup. You absorb minimal additional depreciation risk, and the 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty still has significant coverage remaining. A new 2026 Solterra starts around $44,995+ and may qualify for a partial or full $7,500 new-vehicle credit depending on current-year sourcing rules — but the used route offers a lower total cost of entry.
What should I check before buying a used Solterra?
Request a battery state-of-health (SoH) diagnostic from the dealer. Verify that the vehicle has not been subject to a recall-related battery software update without completion (early Solterras had a recall related to battery management system calibration — check NHTSA for VIN-specific recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls). Confirm the included charging cable (Level 1 120V is standard; Level 2 home charger is a separate purchase). And test the DC fast charging at a public station before finalizing the purchase to confirm the charge rate matches expectations.
