The Subaru Solterra, which is the twin to the Toyota bZ4X, has been given a facelift for the 2026 model year in the United States. Making its debut at this year’s New York International Auto Show (NYIAS), the updated electric vehicle gets a new look as well as more range and power.
On the outside, the Solterra adopts a new front end that is smoother and forgoes the black trim simulating a traditional grille on the older model. The main headlamps have also been separated from the daytime running lights – the latter now bearing a six-element signature – and there is an illuminated Subaru logo.
Elsewhere, the plastic trim around the wheel arches can be had in body colour instead of black, while the badge on the tailgate has been swapped out for the Subaru script. Inside, the infotainment touchscreen is slightly larger at 14 inches, while dual wireless charging pads on the centre console result in the deletion of the covered storage cubby and repositioning of the gear selector and surrounding controls.
In terms of powertrains, the Solterra continues to be offered with two electric motors and all-wheel drive, which sets it apart from the bZ4X that is also available with a single-motor, front-wheel drive option.
The standard Solterra is now rated at 233 hp, up from 215 hp previously. There is also a new XT variant with 338 hp that will get from 0-96 km/h (0-60 mph) in less than five seconds. Both versions get a larger battery pack with 74.7 kWh (up from 72.8 kWh), which sees the range go up to 459 km (285 miles). This is an improvement over the pre-facelift model that managed between 357 and 365 km (222 and 227 miles) depending on trim level.
The improved battery pack also charges faster as it can now handle a DC input of up to 150 kW (up from 100 kW). Subaru claims a 10-80% state of charge is achieved in around 35 minutes, and the Solterra gets NACS charging ports so owners have access to over 15,000 Tesla Superchargers across North America – other brands have also committed to this standard.
Other driving-related features include 210 mm (8.3 inches) of ground clearance and Subaru’s X-Mode Dual-Mode System with Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud modes with Grip Control and Downhill Assist Control. The automaker also claims refinements to the suspension and electric power steering for better handling and responsiveness, while the all-wheel drive controller can better predict and optimise power distribution.
All Solterra variants come standard with the EyeSight suite of ADAS, which includes Pre-Collision Braking, Front Cross Traffic Alert, Blind Spot Monitors, Lane Departure Alert, a panoramic view monitor, Emergency Stop Assist, Traffic Jam Assist, Lane Change Assist, Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control and more. Meanwhile, wheel sizes include 18- and 20-inch options. Pricing and detailed specifications for the 2026 Solterra will be announced later this year.
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should bring in Malaysia… will tapau other EV players
Looks great, actual usable range. Finally a compelling product
this looks better than toyota bz4x. if price right, can tapau byd sales.