The First Electric Subaru Is Here – Meet the 2023 Subaru Solterra

For the last nearly seven decades, Subaru has delivered practical, reasonably-priced vehicles to consumers all over the world. The Subaru name has become synonymous with forward-thinking, intelligent consumers and functional design that provides comfort and a superior driving experience. With its reputation, Subaru has been able to build on a platform of consistent, long-lasting quality that has resulted in a very loyal community of Subaru owners.

As buyers have become more eco-conscious and want to know how they can participate in responsibly caring for the earth, lowering emissions, using alternative energy sources, and learning how to make more constructive choices, the need for electric vehicles is at an all-time high and continues rising every year. The 2023 Subaru Solterra is the newest step toward the future––the first all-electric all-wheel drive vehicle from Japan’s most dependable automobile company. If you’re interested in taking a peek at this new model, pay a visit to William’s Subaru, your Subaru Solterra dealership. Until then, we’ve got all the information you’re looking for in this comprehensive 2023 Solterra buyer’s guide.

Key Differences in an All-Electric Model

The 2023 Solterra is a standout as it doesn’t currently face much competition. Most other compact SUVs run on diesel or gasoline or have a hybrid option. While this will likely change as consumers begin purchasing more and more hybrid and fully electric vehicles, right now, Subaru has the edge. This means the roads around Charlotte are about to receive an influx of electric Subarus which may mean your morning and evening commute will be a lot quieter, hopefully allowing for a more serene drive and less road rage.

One of the biggest differences is the MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent), which, for an electric vehicle, can be quite high. The 2023 Solterra reportedly gets around 94 MPGe, with 220 miles of range. If you’re charging at a Level 2 charging station, a full charge takes a few hours, but with a DC fast charger, you can reach 80% in under an hour. This is huge for people who need to be on the road a lot, especially because electricity is much cheaper than gas or diesel. Charging with a home charging station will only set you back around $8 per charge, given the average Charlotte electricity rate of around 10 cents per kilowatt-hour.

There are also thousands of public charging stations across North America of both varieties, though there are more Level 2 charging stations currently. While charging at public charging stations is more expensive than charging at home, the average Charlotte driver will likely pay under $600 per year for electricity for the Subaru Solterra.

Another difference from gasoline-powered SUVs is that the electrical parts of the Solterra are under warranty for either eight years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. Most other SUVs have a powertrain warranty that lasts around five years, meaning that you have better coverage when you choose to drive the Solterra. The Solterra is also less likely to need maintenance or repairs since electric vehicles do not require regular as much upkeep––for instance, no gasoline engine means you no longer need regular oil changes.

This means that the biggest change between a gas-powered vehicle and an electric one is the pricing and the yearly costs. While the electric vehicle may cost more upfront, it is cheaper to maintain and saves its owner quite a bit of money when it comes to fuel and repairs. Electricity is much less expensive than purchasing gas, not to mention it is better for the environment. Repairs and maintenance appointments tend to be fewer and farther between as well, averaging hundreds of dollars less per year than other vehicles.

What Comes Standard and What Trim Levels Are Available?

The 2023 Solterra has three trim levels available: the Premium, the Limited, and the Touring. The top Touring trim level includes things like a panoramic glass roof with retractable shade, ventilated front seats, optional two-tone paint, and illuminated trim inside, along with all the features included in the Limited trim level.

The Limited trim of the Solterra has fog lights, roof rails, heated front and rear seats, wireless device charging, a 360-degree surround-view camera, and a premium audio system from Harman Kardon, all of which makes the Solterra an extremely comfortable, luxurious ride.

Even the base Premium trim has several features worth getting excited about, like the standard EyeSight Driver Assist technology, symmetrical all-wheel drive, automatic climate control, and 8.3 inches of ground clearance.

No matter which of the three trims you choose, every 2023 Solterra comes with a suite of technological tools and safety features, as well as the ability to turn into an off-road explorer at a moment’s notice. Standard safety features include Subaru EyeSight with forward collision warning, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and automated emergency braking.

An Off-Road SUV for the Wanderers

For those who wish to adventure off-road, the 8.3 inches of ground clearance, selectable X-Mode, and standard all-wheel drive ensure that exploring off the beaten path is safe and fun. X-Mode is one of the driving modes available for the Solterra, and this one specifically allows for modulating how much power goes to each wheel on uneven terrain. There is even a Grip Control feature, with the ability to redistribute torque to the rear axle and make brake force adjustments to maintain speed when going down steep hills. Overall, the 2023 Solterra is ready to ride the road less traveled.

The Solterra also has plenty of storage space, as well as a low load gate that measures 41″ wide, meaning you have plenty of space to store all your camping gear, hiking equipment, food, and water. With 30 cubic feet of space available and roof rails to haul your bikes and bigger items up top, you’ll be able to take everything you need for that back-to-nature vacation or a weekend road trip through the Blue Ridge Mountains of Carolina.

With its symmetrical all-wheel drive system, the Solterra is prepared to drive through almost any terrain in any sort of weather, including rain, sleet, snow, and mud. With the system’s ability to provide balance, traction, stability, and fine-tuned handling, you’re able to control every single inch of the vehicle, even in inclement weather. If you’re the type to hit the road no matter the weather, the Solterra is the EV for you.

An Aerodynamic, Environmentally Friendly SUV For The Future

Subaru’s first-ever all-electric vehicle is both easy on the eyes and easy on the environment. With its zero-emission drivetrain, its twin liftgate spoilers that help manage airflow, and Subaru’s own partnership with the National Park Foundation, you can feel good about your comfort, conscientiousness, and capable ride.

We think you’ll enjoy the sporty look, the incredibly spacious interior, and the chance to participate in creating a more eco-friendly world. There are plenty of places on the planet left to explore, including right here in the Carolinas, and the Solterra is able to take you everywhere in style. If you’ve been wanting to try out a new Subaru, now’s your chance––simply pay a visit to Williams Subaru today!

Posted in Subaru Solterra Dealership | No Comments »