Is The New Subaru Solterra Any Good Off-Road - TFL Slip Test & Charging Review!

[@CruiseControl1]

I have a 24 SOLTERRA on lease and we love it. I average 4.3 miles per kWh. Which gives me 281 miles of range. I have taken it up i70 to grand junction and back from Colorado Springs and it handled a flash flood like a champ. Perfect Colorado car for my family.

[@energyideas]

4.3 m/kwh is milking it, slowest speeds with no HVAC.

[@Joe-cp5ud]

They had to take the license plate off because it’s a rental. 😅 Roman and Subaru still hate each other after the Subaru crew sent repo men to Roman’s that one time.

[@jeffmartin4583]

Thanks for the review. I’m leasing a Solterra premium and have been happy with it. I charge at home and use it locally so range and charge speed aren’t an issue. I also have a Jeep JL rubicon and got this to save on gas. I agree that leasing is the way to go which is why I went with the solterra instead of an Imprezza.

[@halsnyder296]

What I want is a full electric Forester. I want the roof height and the utility. I don’t need stylish, I need usable. That’s why I have a Forester. Subaru needs to return to it’s roots.

[@DblOSmith]

Legend has it, he's still charging.

[@oblivionnokk3531]

Charging issues were solved tho.

[@JohnSeitz]

Tommy - great expanded version of the slip test video!! Would love to see an id4 PRO AWD on this same style of test.

[@chrisss73841]

Compared to the Bolt, it's a great car. But for the price you could buy a Bolt and a Crosstrek....

[@DainPhillipz]

Ehhh I would choose my Bolt EUV over this overpriced Franken-EV any day.

[@porsche558]

The Solterra is a larger vehicle, not much of a comparison really.

[@porsche558]

@@DainPhillipznice toy

[@cypvh74]

Yeah, for the range the price needs to come down a lot, or they need about 100 miles more range.

[@thomas735]

@@DainPhillipzbolt sucks dude. No shine on that POS.

[@MrFallingstarr]

Thanks for another entertaining review Tommy! I leased one for the HOV stickers and free charging at work. Msrp was $46k, with incentives my payoff after leaving the lot was $32k, Subaru is putting a lot of incentives on these to where it’s not a bad lease deal based on your situation. Buying it for $46k would be a terrible idea.

[@wildbill23c]

I agree...if you could qualify to lease one to get the incentives it wouldn't be so bad, but $46k for that no thanks LOL.

[@squiddah]

I have one as well and love it. When people ask what I think I tell them it is a great car, but a terrible EV. That said, my wife has a forester for any long trips and my commute is within range and I charge at home - perfect for me, but there are better options if you need more miles or faster charging on the road.

[@Anhedonis]

X-mode 1 assumes that at least one tire has traction, and it does its best to prevent the other tires from freewheeling, sending that power to the wheel with the most grip. X-mode 2 assumes that all tires have equally bad or no grip, so instead of trying to send the most power to one wheel, it sends just enough power to all of them and allows for more spinning. In a roller test, X-mode 1 should work better.

[@vtsean5840]

Thanks for this Tommy. I’ve driven the Solterra and I agree that range is mediocre. Also agree about the charging speed. On th other hand, I have found that the car is very composed and comfortable even over mountain backroads. Two notes: First, this is one of the few EVs that uses physical controls, for HVAC, etc., rather touch screens. Second, the Subaru version of the car has paddles to change regen. level and that is especially useful in the mountains.

[@jeffmartin4583]

It’s been really great in the snow.

[@vaddimka]

I second that. It's very predictable in wet traction and I like the feedback on the wheel. I don't like that the cheapest trim doesn't have electric seat adjustments, that's basically the only reason I didn't buy one. I was ready to accept the range and charging speed. The next trim is +$6k in Canada. Like come on, even the cheapest chevy bolt has motorized seat adjustments!

[@emikomina]

I agree about the range, if this had a traditional engine and not an EV, then this is actually a really good SUV with no range anxiety, then the only real issue would be the price

[@unSTEVOED]

@@emikomina Get a Cross Trek or Forester or Outback

[@PopHoliday]

Thanks!

[@TerminalyTired]

Love seeing these videos! Have you ever tried a slip test in reverse? Some AWD EVs only have FWD in reverse. Which could be important to know.

[@wildbill23c]

Hmm, interesting, didn't know about the FWD only in EV's in reverse....wonder why that would be though?

[@TerminalyTired]

@@wildbill23c I don’t think it’s every EV. I noticed it on my model 3 performance. I got stuck in some sand and couldn’t back out the car. The front wheels were spinning, but the back wheels would only spin going forward. The ability to go forward or backwards depends on the type of motor and inverter, and maybe the model 3 doesn’t have that option.

[@oblivionnokk3531]

I think that depends if it is dual engine or not.

[@Buc_Stops_Here]

"The Subaru does not make a lot of sense in a number of ways" is stated. I think customers have figured that out. Our local dealer had nearly 20 in stock during the shortage earlier this year while no gas models. Now they only have 6 on the lot, and a ton of the gas models (close to 100 with more in shipping). Even the Subaru dealers have very few of this model now.

[@rtavila]

I'm buying a 2023 this week that sold for 47k last year. I'm getting it for 27k with 5,000 miles. Lolol

[@lawdog516]

Good review Tommy BUT I was totally focused on the crooked license plate bracket, sorry my OCD was kicking in !! LOL 😂😂

[@cbrider6267]

Out of box, Solterra's awd seems comparable to Subaru's standard awd. I'm curious if Wilderness version will be made.

[@wildbill23c]

I don't see why they couldn't make a Wilderness model of the Solterra...it already has the dual X-Mode so all they'd need is to increase the ride height a little more....wonder what effect that would have on the range....maybe for the Wilderness model they should increase the battery size too....trouble is the car will also weigh more so.....

[@vaddimka]

Yes, can confirm, pretty good in wet traction, I felt right at home after our Outback.

[@-----------------------------]

Skid plate added, accessories plugs in the back, solar roof to keep said accessories on camp sites. Would be nice to at least have 300-400 watt solar panel on the roof. ​@@wildbill23c

[@lifeisgood12341]

My 21 id4 never goes below 50kw untill after 80. And that i feel is about the minimum for long distance travel. The only thing i figure is toyotas obsession with reliability leading to the decision to make it 100kw max, and gentle charging curve.

[@1guyin10]

It seems clear that they were even more conservative than usual with this one. It shows a lot of promise, but just isn't there yet.

[@beanapprentice1687]

It could also just be cost cutting.

[@MichaelSmith-kr9qw]

My OCD is kicking in with that crooked license plate bracket !!! Hopefully its just missing a screw !!!

[@thinkabout602]

YEP 🙃

[@Rampage1979]

This vehicle dosnt have the latest software update that shows battery percentage in driver display and also unlocks some mileage from the buffer and improves charging speeds and allows for 3.5 dc charges within 24hrs

[@AdamGrudman]

I just bought one and qualified for the 7500 tax credit. Great video, just thought I would add that

[@NiNjaTurtLe697]

Thanks for staying on that pedal a bit. AWD takes a few seconds or more to work itself out and put power where it's needed.

[@xobano8796]

Would love to se some mild off-road testing with a Model Y.

[@sparklander]

Great review, Tommy.

[@billnorblat4047]

Are those the only xmodes? What you need for this is a rock setting.

[@10219266]

In regards to the slip test, I was wondering if the front brakes were larger than the rear, that could possibly explain why it had an easier time transferring the torque

[@ryandoyle4344]

Rear brakes are usually weaker than the front brakes; Appears, rear caliper couldn't clamp enough to transfer enough power to move the vehicle off the rollers. (EV tq > rear caliper force)

[@beanapprentice1687]

It’s not like he was flooring the throttle, though. There’s no reason why the rear brakes couldn’t generate enough force to stop the rear wheel from spinning that much. It was just insufficient traction control.

[@jimmykelly2809]

Everyone hates on this car and that makes me happy. Soon they won’t be able to give these away. Thats when I’ll rummage through the bin and pick one up for Pennie’s on the dollar

[@bartwaggoner2000]

I would consider one if I could get a 50% discount! But they are losing money at 100% MSRP!

[@mpeugeot]

Just don't see myself ever wanting this... how does the battery tray hold up in an off road environment where it might hit some rocks?

[@ALMX5DP]

Like Tommy said, it’s not for someone who wants to do any serious off-roading. Mostly for recreational use on dirt roads or for up to a ski resort for the weekend.

[@zachlafond2652]

i doubt anyone would ever take this thing off road outside of tommy.

[@kbenti]

Yeah battery damage is a big issue with EVs offroad. It's got good clearance, but unless Subaru is willing to take the hit on battery damage, it's a "no go".

[@jamesengland7461]

EV battery packs offer much better protection than most ICE vehicles have for oil pan, trans pan, fuel or brake lines, or fuel tank.

[@mpeugeot]

@@jamesengland7461 tell that to the Hyundai Ionic 5 owners needing battery replacement for running over a little road debris.

[@TassieEV]

Some good testing there Tommy. I was most curious about charging and seems it's about the same as what Kyle got when he tested the BZ4X but he I believe actually stayed at the charger to 100% from 0%, lets just say about 4hrs later it was done. Not good. The other thing you didn't test but I believe it's the same as the Toyota it only allows a certain number of DC fast charges per 24hrs so road tripping could be near impossible unless you want to charge on AC.

[@NoXQc]

We just got ours (well it’s my wife’s) and the lease is cheaper than every other EVs out there (Canada) even cheaper than the Ioniq5. 17 000$ rebate including the provincial and federal discount

[@lonerider5315]

When wheels are opposing, braking one wheel to send power to the other is how an open dif car should operate. The fact the electric motors act the same, is a example how much engineers want it to have a gas car experience. Actually pretty cool.

[@beanapprentice1687]

No. The fact that the car uses brakes for torque vectoring is merely because it’s cheaper than putting a motor at each wheel.

[@kidwelldavid6136]

Tommy, take that THING back to were you got it from and tell them to send it back. That thing sucks. Outside that, love TFL.

[@roguedogx]

4:47 to me it actually looked like it was too sophisticated for the test. like it was using way more advanced techniques than the test was designed for. do they work? who knows. defiantly not on this test.

[@roguedogx]

I will agree with you Tommy that the Subaru is a bad electric car compared to the rest of the market right now. However for a first try, if it's reliable (a Toyota and Subaru staple) then I could see this as a worthwhile stepping stone. although I do agree they need to advance a lot really quickly to catch the market, and that's not a Toyota and Subaru strong point. they are better at holding on to their lead.

[@evotecsro]

Sending power to the wheel with traction using brake on the opposite wheel is not very smart, I think. We have a better solution, which do not need any electronics and works automatically, usin centrifugal forces. Simply by using centrifugal friction clutch it is able to automatically transfer power from faster wheel to slower one and with help of reduction 25:1 clutch can handle all the torque. There is no need for any switching and car can turn any one wheel with traction without using brakes. We have a patent and we are testing now, you can see first "tractor" test on my YT :) I think it is smarter to send power via clutch, not to brake one wheel, if you need to move....

[@brendykes1202]

With all the comparisons to the Model Y, I wish you had included MYLR traction results.

[@TheNewMediaoftheDawn]

The ground clearance of the Y couldn’t even get through that mud without risking the battery.

[@brendykes1202]

I’ve taken my Bolt through similar conditions and slid both Bolt & MY across many snow berms w no probs.

[@cop2506]

Will you guys make another video of these SUVs I want to see how they perform with mud and snow tires

[@justcollectingdust]

Great for around town especially when you get $7500 rebate and an additional almost $10k off of that! So comfortable....and we don't need a long range vehicle ......if that's needed we can just rent an ICE.

[@David-mm5vl]

I'd says it's a hard pass on most of these first gen EVs and hybrids. Figure another 5-10 years and they'll be sorted. I want to see Subaru make their future EVs with 4 motors for that true Symmetrical AWD life.

[@RebelRanger2009]

The right rear didn't really have contact with the road though.

[@kbenti]

Yeah, you have to watch out with these 3 roller tests, because the car's weight could be balanced such that no weight is left on that 4th wheel.

[@smarticus6384]

It was an EV built to NOT sell.

[@bartwaggoner2000]

From the looks to the performance to the range to the charging speed to the technology - nothing is class leading or even competitive with other EVs - sad!

[@kbenti]

​@@bartwaggoner2000ground clearance is it's selling point. Subaru doesn't try to be a class leader. They try to find a Niche' underserved market and hit it with a subtle reliable option.

[@trails3597]

These TFL tests are awesome. EVs do surpass ICE vehicles.

[@robertsnitchler9966]

Are there any lubrication points on the rollers? They sound like they are binding a little. I hope they hold up for more entertaining testing.

[@yissibiiyte]

Thankfully it seems Subaru actually tweaked the Solterra's AWD system somewhat instead of relying on Toyota's

[@wildbill23c]

Toyota's AWD systems really don't seem that great, especially in their Hybrid and EV stuff....You'd think Toyota would go in and tweak their programming for better response and operation.

[@dmunro9076]

I wonder if that EA charger was de-rated? It might be worthwhile to retest on another charger.

[@MrFallingstarr]

Agreed, I’ve gotten up to 80 in my Solterra

[@johnlodge8546]

Nope. I been at any number of DC locations. When ever either of the twins (Solterra/BZ4X) are charging their throughput is disastrously bad. I've even seen a vehicle use the same dispenser after one of the twins left and the dispenser ramped up to its rated output. I've seen Kyle of out of spec test the BZ4X, regardless of DC dispensers or location, these twins fail to EVER reach their maximum rated charging rate. They even quickly tapper to rates slower than the poorest DC charging models from several years ago. The effective Charging rate from 0 to 80% SOC is under 45 KW. Out of Spec does a 15 minute challenge and these twins tallied the lowest Score EVER TESTED.

[@stupid8911]

Tom, love you and the channel. I don't think comparing the Solterra to the Model Y is fair other than the fact that they're both electric cars. I don't think the Y could even make it to the dirt test track. There's good things happening at Tesla (despite El*n tripping over himself at every turn, but I digress), but durability and reliability are not at the top of their list as of this writing. I love that they're refreshing the Model 3 by tightening up the structure to make the ride quieter and comfortable, and since the Y is pretty much a raised 3, I reckon those changes will trickle down (or up) to the Y. All that being said, I'd be happy to pay for the very top trim of the Solterra/BZed as Subaru/Toyota's durability, reliability, safety are almost bulletproof.

[@downhillskier7]

Subaru should have kept front and rear Torsen LSD for ICE vehicles along with X modes then tires wouldn’t spin so much getting unstuck.

[@DDL-n2u]

Been looking for a great deal on a lease on an EV or Plug in Hybrid and these are $399/month with a modest $399 down unlike the others ($5k down? Get out of here) - For that price, the gas savings may pay for 75% of the lease cost. Strongly considering.

[@merrichoang6858]

In my experience, Electrify America is always terrible. No matter what car, it normally pulls a max of only 42kw, never closed to the advertised 350kw.

[@carperdiem8754]

Need this test on rivian dual motor

[@king-crane4956]

Subaru has a lease deal right now for $329 a month either no down. Pretty incredible

[@JustZod]

Hope people picked up the cheap lease deals on the BZ4X in April.

[@ryan56976]

If these weren’t 10 years old already and didnt look stupid, I’d be interested in one. not sure why this isn’t a Rav4EV or ForresterEV with anything faster than the slowest chargers

[@robbrownfield7677]

It was launched in 2022.

[@georgeh6856]

How does the front license plate holder get installed crooked? There should be holes drilled at the factory for the front license plate holder. Many years ago, I bought a used car in Florida, which does not use front license plates. When I moved to California, which does use front license plates, lucky for me I found the front license plate holder in one of the secret compartments under the trunk floor. I took it out and used the pre-drilled holes in the front of that car to install the front license plate holder.

[@georgeh6856]

@@jimjones-pz1tt That still does not answer why the license plate bracket is crooked. It should be screwed into the factory-drilled holes, so the bracket should be straight.

[@georgeh6856]

@@jimjones-pz1tt Thanks. My Toyota probably just had the dimples instead of pre-drilled holes. That was back in 2015, so my memory is vague. In any case, it was very easy to install.

[@wildbill23c]

I recall you did the slip roller test on the Subaru Forester Wilderness a while back and it did a lot better in all the slip tests...Subaru needs to do some more AWD and traction control programming on the Solterra...or is it a Toyota? My understanding is its really a Toyota but has the Subaru drive train? Also....given the Solterra is electric, is the accelerator really applying throttle LOL.

[@bartwaggoner2000]

Never mind the specs, thie looks of this vehicle scream DO NOT BUY ME

[@Tinrs80]

Would it not be all about the Programming???. thats odd this got stuck like that. Seems that would be a programming issue

[@LukeEdward]

Some people enjoy the Kardashians, too. I am not those people.

[@thomasfields2082]

On a lease its a hard maybe. Just for the novelty.

[@christover1]

Off road, the taller tires and greater ground clearance wins over the AWD Tesla Y. Saying that, though, Tesla wins out on the rest. But lift kit and taller tires on a Y adds expense and possible range loss. Looks like the Australia spec version of Solterra will have better batteries than the US spec, so ours may be better? Not actually selling here yet, just promising to.

[@wanglee21]

It's a Toyota. Changing the badging and ground clearance isn't enough to say it's Subaru. lol

[@jimmykelly2809]

Ha! Just looked it up you can get them for mid 30’s with 3k miles! For a 23! Nobody is going to buy this car even used with depreciation that bad

[@BassRacerx]

$46,000 with cloth seats is a no for me dawg.

[@michaelhenry-hurst2787]

Based on ur dads charging in his video it seems to be a possible software glitch for the charge rate, give Subby a call surly theres a car fault somewhere on why its not charging at 100Kw

[@jamesrobinson3660]

Is an off-road testing in Australia it has the rollers on the hill on one side 52 ft long 🙄

[@komronazamat1911]

do a roller test with a regular toyota grand highlander hybrid not the hybrid max

[@10cpaul]

Bottom line Ill pay for gas! Toyota 4 runner all day!

[@jimmykelly2809]

Solterrable

[@bartwaggoner2000]

Solterda

[@winghosamLeung-ff3bu]

What is the selling price in USD ?

[@rapide12345]

Test the new Outlander PHEV next.

[@TheNewMediaoftheDawn]

The ground clearance and AWD make it very appealing for mild overlanders and rural drivers looking for an EV, Model Y has terrible ground clearance, 6.6”, so not serious in that department…. That would make me overlook the other shortfalls. The next gen should be excellent if they improve a couple things,,,🚙

[@Landodirt]

Hopefully it’s not like the Hyundai ionic. People who have scraped or dented the battery cover underneath have had their car totaled because of the $61,000 cost of replacement.

[@beanapprentice1687]

Those people did more than merely scrape the battery. And Hyundai should’ve replaced the batteries for free, but they didn’t honour their warranty.

[@Arcturuseyes]

I had an Impreza back in the day, I loved it, until a deer ran in front of me, I was going 45mph, instant airbag deployment,

[@johnbronco8678]

What the hell is that noise we hear outside the car? Is it always making that sound?

[@rylans.5365]

That continuous forward sound is the PWS (Pedestrian Warning System). The Subaru Solterra and the Toyota bZ4X use the same sound. There is a speaker mounted on the front (behind the bottom vent opening) that emits this sound whenever in drive, reverse, and neutral, alerting pedestrians to the presence of the vehicle. The sound while inside the cabin is barely audible, especially when coupled with radio and climate control. The sound is meant to be heard outside though, and is meant to grab your attention. Different car brands implement and design different sounds for this purpose. Hope this helps!

[@Aashishkebab]

The front wheel traction worked better because you're sitting on that side.

[@hayduke4589]

You guys did the roller test on the Y years ago, but didn’t do the trail test like this? Would you be better off with slightly more aggressive tires on 18 inch wheels on the model Y? Even with the range hit you’d still be way ahead of the Solterra. Not to mention charging…

[@pablochacon40]

Did Subaru finally gave you guys a car or did you guys had to buy another subaru

[@brucec954]

Your basic half assed attempt at an EV so Toyota and Subaru can tick the box and say "yes, we have an EV".

[@kensmith5694]

Basically, you have shown that the software that does stuff is not very good. It knows that one wheel is stopped and the others are moving. It isn't rocket science to work out which tire is the only one with traction.

[@allstarnb1]

Model Y LR is a no brainer compared to this car, especially when you consider the $7500 tax credit the Y qualifies for!

[@bartwaggoner2000]

This care will actually make you want a Tesla even if you did not consider it before

[@kbenti]

Not if you want Ground Clearance.

[@allstarnb1]

@@kbenti because 1.5” of ground clearance is worth settling for a terrible car. 😒

[@vaddimka]

@@allstarnb1 It's not terrible. I mean, yes, model Y has a better range and faster charging speed. I find AWD more predictable in Solterra, it has a parking camera in the front (not the vision thingy that was fixed only in the latest update? assuming that it's fixed). Plus the ground clearance and plastic all around really puts your mind at ease. It just needs to be a bit cheaper.

[@cypvh74]

Unless you want something with higher ground clearance. There aren’t really many good EV options yet under $50k that have 8” clearance.

[@jonhymarquez8166]

I thought it was a very bare bones Mustang Mach E when I saw the thumbnail

[@scottkahre9206]

Rented one and hated it compared to my Bolt EUV. All the reasons Tommy mentioned, plus the interior layout and tons of annoying chimes and dings drove me crazy!

[@richardnottelmann58]

11:38 Does anyone else hear the horn in the background? While Tommy is talking through the trenches corse.

[@elliotwave9589]

itd be cool if you can get a 2024 outback and do all this. i see you did the forester so idk if theres a big difference.. but would be cool to see if you guys can get your hands on one

[@motorv8N]

Great review - thanks! I so want to like this car - attractive, good size, capable AWD, physical controls vs drive by iPad. Don’t even care about the range so much as it’s interstellar class compared to our other EV, the pitifully short-legged if fun to drive Mini SE….but cost for value is all out of whack.

[@louiep9862]

Until the technology gets these EV’s into 400-500 miles range & a better network I’ll stick with my Hybrid .

[@rylans.5365]

Some luxury EVs already have these figures. I don’t expect it to take much longer to see proposed range figures of 400+ in premium and base EVs, because we already have upwards of 300 miles. And just so you know, a hybrid is not comparable to an EV.

[@perpelle]

How many hybrids can you build with one ev? Lots. If the government wants us to get rid of gas guzzlers, sell hybrids.

[@M85Iroc]

My eyes are bleeding looking at the front license plate bracket

[@brianjohnson9890]

You can tell this is their “had to make for California” car

[@kemijarks]

did you try driving a model Y into that trench ?

[@unSTEVOED]

A classic Subaru lemon

[@AlainHubert]

This and the Toyota bZ4XyZ are basically the same car.

[@Stuka87]

For as amazing as Toyota hybrids are, their EVs leave a lot to be desired.

[@crt5866]

its interesting to see how much better the gasoline subaru did

[@joemattes8389]

Subaru gave you a car to test!

[@scottmayers-ln9np]

They rented it😂

[@jlgro2065]

It looks like a mustang mach E from the front

[@bulletsandserenades]

Did you guys purposely use the background music to be in the same root note as the Subaru chime? 😂😂

[@Br3ttBork3r]

Just remember to NEVER buy a new car. The $40-$50k price tag is way too much. The used market for this car is insane, 45% discount with around 15k miles, it’s still new.

[@davidmlong63]

To be perfectly honest if I owned a solterra it would be a pavement princess.

[@williampresley3000]

This is a Toyota right?

[@KPHVAC]

I'm a Toyota fan but they need to drop the price at least $10,000! It needs to be way less expensive than a Tesla model Y.

[@NathanArnold-sf7gx]

What an annoying noise, total turn off!