Subaru Australia is set to launch an updated version of its Solterra electric SUV, bringing significant improvements to range, power, technology, and – crucially – affordability. The revised model, arriving alongside a refreshed Toyota bZ4X (with which it shares a platform), boasts a more compelling value proposition in the increasingly competitive electric SUV market.
Key Upgrades and Pricing
The most impactful change is the increase in driving range. The base Solterra AWD now offers a total WLTP range of 566km, a 152km improvement over the previous model. The flagship Solterra AWD Touring sees an even larger jump, with a range of 517km – 103km more than before. This range boost is achieved through the inclusion of a larger 74.7kWh lithium-ion battery (up from 71.4kWh), sourced from Chinese manufacturer CATL, alongside refinements in electric motor efficiency and optimised aerodynamics.
Alongside the range enhancements comes a substantial price reduction:
- Base Solterra AWD: $63,990 (down from $69,990)
- Flagship Solterra AWD Touring: $69,990 (down from $76,990)
These price cuts make the Solterra considerably more competitive with rivals like the Tesla Model Y.
Increased Power and Intelligent Torque System
The 2026 Solterra now delivers a peak power output of 252kW, making it the most powerful Subaru ever produced. The dual-motor, all-wheel-drive system now features a significantly boosted front motor, up to 167kW, and an improved rear motor, increasing to 88kW. While specific torque figures remain unconfirmed, Subaru reports a 30% increase in instantaneous torque compared to the outgoing model.
Furthermore, the Solterra now incorporates an intelligent adaptive torque system. This system intelligently shifts torque to the rear wheels during corner entry for improved turn-in and stability. Supporting this is a refined suspension setup that enhances ride comfort, particularly for rear-seat passengers.
Technology and Design Updates
The interior receives a substantial upgrade with the introduction of a 14-inch touchscreen infotainment display, shared with the bZ4X. The centre console is redesigned with dual 15W wireless phone chargers, enhancing convenience. Standard features include synthetic leather upholstery, powered and heated front seats, a digital rear-view mirror, heated steering wheel, driver monitoring system, and Subaru’s comprehensive ‘Subaru Safety Sense’ suite of driver assistance technologies.
The flagship Touring model adds premium “natural leather”-accented upholstery, ventilated front seats, a panoramic glass roof, Subaru’s first advanced park assist system, a 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, and a valuable vehicle-to-load (V2L) port.
On the exterior, the Touring model offers two-tone paint options, while all models get a sleek new body-coloured front bumper and gloss-black wheel-arch cladding. Minor rear styling tweaks and a new ‘SUBARU’ wordmark replace the previous six-star badge. Refreshed wheel designs (18- and 20-inch) complete the aesthetic updates.
Future Prospects for Subaru’s EV Lineup
The updated Solterra marks the beginning of a broader expansion of Subaru’s electric vehicle portfolio. The brand recently unveiled the Uncharted and Trailseeker EV models, built on the Toyota C-HR+ and bZ4X platforms, respectively. While their arrival in Australia is yet to be confirmed, Subaru Australia has not ruled out their potential inclusion.
Subaru has committed to offering eight EVs globally by 2028, and the Solterra, Uncharted, and Trailseeker represent just the beginning. At least one of these future models is expected to be developed in-house by Subaru, potentially signalling a performance-oriented electric offering.
The launch of the updated Solterra comes at a critical time, as the model has been underperforming in 2025 sales (just 142 units). The brand will be hoping these enhancements can significantly improve the Solterra’s market position and contribute to Subaru’s growing presence in the electric vehicle sector.
