The 2024 Subaru Solterra will arrive at U.S. dealerships soon and it will sport a handful of welcome improvements.
Most of the updates are focused on charging and the crossover benefits from “improvements to its fast-charging capabilities.” The automaker was coy on specifics, but said the model can now go from a 10% to 80% charge in as little as 35 minutes. For comparison, the 2023 model could get an 80 percent charge in around 56 minutes.
Besides faster fast-charging, the Solterra has been equipped with an upgraded battery conditioning system. Subaru says it enables the model to “charge at temperatures below freezing significantly faster than its predecessor, up to 80 minutes faster in certain conditions.”
Putting charging aside, the 2024 Solterra comes with an all-new EyeSight driver assistance system that is far more advanced than what’s found on other Subies. It enables the crossover to “travel in its lane at speeds up to 25 mph (40 km/h) with only driver supervision, including stop-and-go traffic.” In effect, the model now has a hands-free traffic jam assist function.
On top of that, the system has an automatic lane change function, Front Cross Traffic Alert, and a DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System. They’re joined by familiar features such as Blind Spot Monitoring, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Lane Tracing and Road Sign Assist, and Rear Camera Detection with Pedestrian Warning.
Additional changes are limited, but the crossover sports a new steering wheel with “regenerative braking force paddle switches.” The 2024 Solterra also gains newly standard roof rails that can support up to 700 lbs (317 kg) of weight.
More: 2024 Toyota bZ4X Gains Dual-Voltage Charging Cable And More Kit, But Power And Range Still Suck
Pricing remains unchanged as the model begins at $44,995 before a $1,345 destination fee in most areas. The entry-level Premium comes equipped with LED headlights, the aforementioned EyeSight system, and 18-inch alloy wheels. They’re joined by a 7-inch cluster display, an 8-inch infotainment system, a dual-zone automatic climate control system, and heated front seats.
Customers can also get Limited and Touring trims, but all three are powered by a 72.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. It feeds a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing a mere 215 hp (160 kW / 218 PS) and 249 lb-ft (337 Nm) of torque. Those aren’t the only disappointing numbers as the model has an EPA-estimated range of up to 227 miles (365 km).