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Solterra refresh brings more power and the same base price
Subaru has given the compact Solterra electric crossover a substantial refresh for 2026, boosting power, range, and cabin tech while holding the starting MSRP steady. The base Solterra continues to start at $38,495, a move that reinforces Subaru of America's sensitivity to inflationary pressures and price stability for buyers shopping EV crossovers.
Trim lineup and pricing highlights
The 2026 Solterra is offered in four grades: Premium, Limited, Limited XT, and Touring XT. Key pricing and positioning:
- Base/Premium: starts at $38,495
- Limited: starts at $41,395, and is actually $600 cheaper than the outgoing model year
- Limited XT: starts at $42,895 with the new 338 hp powertrain
- Touring XT: flagship trim at $45,555
The fresh XT models are the headline news. Equipped with stronger dual motors, XT variants jump to 338 horsepower and can sprint to 60 mph in under five seconds, delivering near sports car acceleration in an electric SUV package. Even the non-XT Premium and Limited models gain performance, now rated at 233 hp.
Powertrain, battery and range
Every 2026 Solterra gets a larger 74.7 kWh lithium ion battery, which supports an estimated driving range of up to 288 miles. Subaru also added a battery preconditioning system to preserve DC fast charging speeds in cold weather, allowing charging at rates up to 150 kW. Home charging is faster too, with onboard AC charging up to 11 kW, and Subaru now fits the North American Charging Standard port across the lineup.
Technology, AWD and features
Standard equipment includes Symmetrical All Wheel Drive and Subaru EyeSight driver assistance tech. Inside, a new 14 inch Subaru Multimedia System with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto takes center stage. The Limited adds 20 inch wheels, a Multi Terrain Monitor, a 120V rear power outlet, and a Harman Kardon premium audio system.
A quick comparison note: the Solterra shares its underpinnings with the Toyota bZ sibling, but Subaru tunes the driving dynamics and safety stack to match its brand DNA, notably with standard AWD across all trims.
Highlights and takeaways:
- Price stability for the base model amid broader automaker price increases
- New 338 hp XT trims for brisk performance
- 74.7 kWh battery, up to 288 miles range, DC fast charging to 150 kW
- Standard AWD and Subaru EyeSight on every model
With sharper powertrains and upgraded tech, the 2026 Solterra becomes a stronger contender in the electric compact SUV segment while keeping its entry price accessible for buyers watching costs.
Source: autoevolution
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