[SubiGuy]

 

[SubiGuy]

Here's out first look at the Solterra in full. This version is just for Japan but shouldn't be much different from what other markets get.

 

[BoxerPwr]

Here are more photos of the Solterra that I took from the livestream.

 

[Jumpem]

I don't see any cameras at the top of the windshield.

 

[jmajid]

It has EYESIGHT!!

 

[JohnPaul]

Here's a thread with all the details from the Subaru press release - https://www.solterraforum.com/threads/subaru-solterra-official-debut-details-and-specs.131/

 

[R P]

No rear window wiper??

 

[BoxerPwr]

Here are all the photos Subaru posted of the Solterra on their website.

❮ ❯

View Full Gallery

❮ ❯

View Full Gallery

 

[JohnPaul]

No rear window wiper??

Good catch! The Hyundai Ioniq 5 doesn't have one either and reviewers have said it needs one!

 

[BoxerPwr]

Here are all the exterior photos of the Solterra that Subaru released after the livestream.

❮ ❯

View Full Gallery

 

[BoxerPwr]

Here are all the interior photos of the Solterra that Subaru released after the livestream.

❮ ❯

View Full Gallery

 

[R P]

I like the looks and the typical Subaru SUV off-road chops. But the specs are not impressive otherwise. Battery and charging is old tech, not 800V like the new Hyundia and Kias. Basically it is the same as my now "old" Hyundai Kona EV for charging speed. And my Kona has a higher torque motor, 291 lb ft vs 248 for the Solterra.

 

[BoxerPwr]

Here are all the first look videos I've found on the Solterra so far. If you find other videos add them below!

Alex on Autos

Redline Reviews

Edmunds

Roadshow

Cars.com

Motor1

2023 Subaru Solterra: First Look (Up-Close Details)

 

[HeyChris]

Not a fan of the steering wheel/instrument cluster design compromise with Toyota.

Height adjustment includes limiting the view of the cluster.

 

[Mr. WRX]

No rear window wiper??
I don't know why they eliminate the rear wiper???

No rear window wiper??

 

[R P]

Don't see a rear wiper in this pic.

 

[R P]

I do like the exterior. But not the interior. Maybe I will change my mind when I see it in person. But I doubt it. Just can't get over that weird little dash behind the steering wheel.

 

[ag5bpilot]

No rear window wiper??

I love Subarus. I owned an XT6 for over 20 years. But the lack of a rear wiper is a problem.

I've been considering buying an Ionic 5, and I waited till yesterday to test drive one specifically because I wanted to drive it in the rain and see how bad the visibility was. That car also lacks a rear wiper. In a word, it sucked. I was ready to purchase one before the test drive yesterday, but now I have second thoughts.

Later in the day I heard about the Solterra reservations opening up today and I was thrilled. Until I saw the photos and realized that the Solterra also lacks a rear wiper. Seriously? This is a car designed for cold snowy climates, and it doesn't have a rear wiper?

True, my XT6 didn't have a rear wiper either, but it wasn't an SUV/hatchback. Although strangely, the Alcion (the Japanese market version of the XT6) did have a rear wiper.

What gives, Subaru? For many people this is going to be a deal breaker.

I guess I know why none of the promo videos I've seen show the Solterra on wet roads.

 

[R P]

Like you, am also looking at the Ioniq 5. I want the AWD Ultimate model (top trim), and it is sold out to 2023. So I might consider the Solterra again, once I can take it for a test ride. But yeah, also no rear wiper!! And does not have the 800V; super fast charging like the Ioniq 5.

I have had a Kona EV Ultimate for almost 3 years. Great range, and great city car. But it is no Subaru, can't handle any rough roads. Drove it this winter in the mountains (skiing and snow hiking) and my rear wheels got knocked out of alignment, resulting in uneven tire wear (inside edges). Dealer said it was due to driving fast on snow packed roads. Problem is the snow plows don't get right down to the pavement, and until it all melts or gets worn down, it is rough. He said he does 1 or 2 alignments almost every day, on other models, too, not just the Kona.

Have never had that issue with my past Subaru cars. Beside winter roads, my Crosstrek gets a severe beating on our cabin FSR road. But it just glides over the rough stuff and never an issue with alignment. I mentioned this to the Hyundai service guy, and he readily admitted that Subaru's are far better on snow or rough roads.

Now the question is how tough is this Solterra. Is it a Toyota or a true Subaru, with the suspension, etc.?