Driving the 2026 Subaru Solterra through the breathtaking Rocky Mountains near Denver is nothing short of spectacular. As I navigated the winding roads, flanked by dense pine forests, the Solterra showcased its improved handling and elegant design. Within just an hour, I ascended from 5,000 to 9,000 feet, and unlike traditional combustion engines, the Solterra felt invigorated by the lighter air—EVs thrive on altitude!

Subaru has clearly elevated the Solterra for 2026, making it one of the most competitive electric vehicles in its class. With a refined cabin and sophisticated ride quality, this vehicle’s 338 horsepower was more than enough for the picturesque drive. Plus, it now features a Tesla-style North American Charging Port (NACS), giving drivers access to a vast network of Tesla Superchargers across North America, ensuring range anxiety is a thing of the past.

But here's the kicker: come October, the federal tax credits that have made EVs like the Solterra appealing will expire. With this looming change, Subaru has rolled out these enhancements just in time to keep the Solterra appealing in a rapidly changing EV landscape.

Power and Efficiency: A New Era for the Solterra

Unlike its Toyota bZ counterpart, the Solterra is available with just one robust battery option—a 74.7 kWh lithium-ion pack. While the battery size may seem only slightly increased, it delivers a significant 26% jump in range, reaching 288 miles for the base model, thanks to improvements in insulation, cooling, and aerodynamics.

Charging times have also improved, with DC fast charging now reaching speeds of up to 150 kW, which shortens the charging process and opens up more convenient options for drivers. With every upgrade, it's clear Subaru has thought long and hard about enhancing the driving experience.

Engineered for Excellence: My Driving Experience

On the road, the Solterra trades its previous lackluster acceleration for a spirited performance that surprises. Thanks to upgraded motors, the standard trims now offer 233 horsepower, while the sportier XT trims pump it up to an exhilarating 338 horsepower. The drive felt seamless, with the vehicle maintaining poise even when navigating tricky turns.

The recalibrated chassis enhances the ride quality, making it feel more refined than its predecessor. It glides along city roads, absorbing bumps while providing a confident grip on curvy mountain roads. However, the steering lacks precision, feeling somewhat vague, which could detract from the driving experience.

Thrilling Off-Road Capability: An Unexpected Adventure

In an unexpected detour, my drive took a wild turn into a rugged forest trail, where the Solterra demonstrated its off-road prowess. Engaging the X Mode effectively adjusted the vehicle’s settings for optimal traction in challenging environments. The Solterra crawled through rocky terrain with impressive agility, proving its capability extends beyond just a family-friendly crossover.

A Refreshing Interior and Modern Tech

The Solterra's cabin is a leap forward, with high-quality materials and an expansive 14-inch touchscreen that integrates seamlessly with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. While some features like the steering-wheel gauge visibility could use refinement, the overall tech layout is functional and user-friendly.

Conclusion: Is the Solterra Ready to Compete?

Subaru is gearing up to expand its EV offerings significantly, and the Solterra is positioned as a strong contender in the electric crossover market. While it may not outshine rivals like the Tesla Model Y in performance or range, it brings unique qualities to the table that loyal Subaru fans will appreciate. With a new wave of electric vehicles on the horizon and rising competition, the Solterra must prove itself.

As the launch approaches, anticipation builds around its pricing. If Subaru can keep it competitive in the mid-$30,000s range, the Solterra could indeed be a hit. With the EV revolution gaining momentum, it’s becoming clearer: once drivers go electric, there’s often no turning back!