Performance
Premium and Limited models now produce 233 horsepower, up from 215 in the previous model. The new high-capacity 74.7 kWh lithium battery is just slightly larger than before but increases range to 288 miles, an almost 30% improvement. Bigger changes come with the two new XT models (Limited XT and Touring XT), which get more powerful motors that bring horsepower up to 338, a full 123 more horsepower than was previously available. Car and Driver reports a change in 0-60 times from 6.1 seconds to 4.3, making it, in their words, “the quickest accelerating Subaru we’ve ever tested.” Range for the more powerful XT models is estimated at 278 miles.
A new battery preconditioning system prepares the battery for optimal charging, especially in cold weather. When charging on the road, the model can charge at speeds up to 150kW on fast DC-direct chargers, including the Tesla Supercharger network, thanks to the new North American Charging Standard Port (NACS) on the passenger side. As a result, the Solterra can now charge from 10% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes.
The 2026 Subaru Solterra EV now features an upgraded suspension and electric power steering, designed for better handling and responsiveness. Its improved all-wheel-drive system anticipates load on the front and rear tires, distributing power more efficiently to minimize roll and sway, resulting in a smoother ride and improved drivability. The X-MODE® Dual-Mode System is standard on all models and includes Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud modes. Also included are Grip Control and Downhill Assist Control, which help users feel confident in low-traction or off-road conditions.
You can also choose between Normal Driving, Eco mode for battery conservation, and Power mode for that extra boost in responsiveness. The EV-specific S-Brake’s regenerative technology enables one-pedal driving. When you’re ready to stop, you can adjust regenerative braking responsiveness with the convenient paddles on your steering wheel. Then simply lift your foot off the pedal. You will slow immediately and come to a complete stop without even using your brake pedal. Don’t worry; you still have that all-important brake pedal and conventional disc brakes when you need hard braking.
Exterior
While the body is essentially unchanged, the 2026 Solterra features new front-end styling with revised lighting and a new bumper, plus a new badge with illuminated stars. Certain colors now feature body-color front fenders, while other colors feature gloss-black fenders instead of the former gray. Along the sides are newly designed 18- and 20-inch wheels, and the rear features a new badge and gate garnish.
Unchanged is the low hood line, which gives the driver maximum visibility for a more spacious, open-road feel. Not to be overlooked is the panoramic glass roof on the Touring XT, which features a motorized sunshade.
Interior
The big news in the interior is an all-new 14-inch touchscreen, standard across the model line. A distinctive squared-off steering wheel provides room below and a clear sight line to the gauge cluster. Mounted near the base of the windshield, the driver display essentially combines the functions of both conventional and head-up displays.
The small size of the motors and the lack of a transmission enable the Solterra to devote the saved space to the interior, with up to 125 cubic feet for both passengers and gear. The low load height and wide-opening rear gate make loading convenient and easy for the driver. The StarTex® upholstery is made of high-quality, soft-touch materials, giving a sleek appearance. You and your passengers will enjoy comfort with the generous legroom and spacious feel of the Solterra, complemented by its silent operation.
Technology
The new standard 14-inch center screen features a new operating system while retaining Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration. The center console has been redesigned and now includes dual wireless 15-watt smartphone chargers on all models. An available Intelligent Assistant provides dual-zone voice control for HVAC, audio, phone, vehicle information, and more.
Solterra Connect is a feature that gives you a strong sense of connection and security with your vehicle. Using the app on your phone, you can unlock the car or start the engine. You can even adjust your vehicle’s internal temperature automatically from your phone. Parking is no problem when you are driving this vehicle. The sophisticated Park Assist technology, with a self-parking system, makes parking easier than ever.
Safety
Safety has always been a huge priority for Subaru, and nothing changes when the model runs on electrons. The 2026 model has not been evaluated at this time. However, the 2025 model year, the structurally similar Subaru Solterra was named a TOP SAFETY PICK+ by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, their highest honor. That model also earned a 5-Star Overall Rating from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA).
All Solterra models are equipped with the EyeSight® suite of safety and driver-assist technologies to give you both confidence and provide driving convenience. These features include:
- Emergency Steering Assist
- Intersection Collision Avoidance Support
- Pre-Collision Brake Assist
- Pre-Collision Acceleration Suppression (low speed)
- Lane Departure Prevention
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Lane Tracing Assist
- Hands-Free Low-Speed Driving
- DriverFocus® Distraction Mitigation System
- Emergency Driving Stop System
- Proactive Driving Assist for pedestrian, vehicle, and cyclist avoidance assistance, Lead Vehicle Start Alert
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Lane Tracing Assist
- Emergency Driving Stop Assist
- Road Sign Assist with Vehicle Speed Limit Warning
The Active Navigation Subscription brings additional functionality, such as hands-free driving at speeds slower than 25 MPH on supported roads and, after a stop, automatic resuming of driving when traffic starts moving again. There are also assists with changing lanes when the turn signal is activated. All but the premium model include the 360-degree Panoramic View Monitor, which provides an overhead view for better situational awareness.
Solterra also provides standard Safe Exit Assist, which will alert you if a vehicle or object is in your path before you exit your vehicle. The automatic high beams optimize the use of your headlights while driving in harsher or darker conditions.
Warranty
These warranties come with every standard model; they include;
- 3-year, 36,000-mile new car warranty
- 5-year, 60,000-mile powertrain warranty (excludes electrification)
- 3-year, 36,000-mile wear item warranty
- 8-year, or 100,000-mile Electrical Component Warranty
- 5-year, unlimited-mile rust perforation warranty
Subaru’s available Rust Perforation Warranty and Wear Item Warranty are amazing testaments to the quality of this vehicle and the confidence of the Subaru Brand. The Wear Item Warranty covers wear and tear on items such as brake pads, wiper blades, clutch linings, and transmitter batteries. This special offer ensures the driver that Subaru stands by the performance and overall build of its product.