Solterra

Make
Subaru
Segment
SUV

For the first time in its history, Subaru will debut a dedicated electric vehicle next week at the 2021 LA Auto Show. Called the Solterra, it's essentially a rebadged version of the Toyota bZ4X. Subaru says it'll be its most technologically advanced vehicle to date.

Both vehicles ride on the e-Subaru Global Platform with the SUVs' interiors expected to be nearly identical, save for brand badging and other minor details. As we saw with the bZ4X, the cabin will be spacious and packed with digital touchscreens for the infotainment system and driver's gauge cluster. But there will be one key difference between them.

The bZ4X will offer both front- and all-wheel drive options while the Solterra will be AWD-only. It's a Subaru, after all. This latest and likely final teaser image shows a close-up view of the SUV's black plastic-surrounded front wheel arch. There's also the obligatory dirty tires and side sill. Subaru's message is clear: just because this is an EV doesn't mean it's incapable of performing off-road, a must-have capability for many longtime customers.

With motors at both axles, the Solterra will have a total output of 214 horsepower and a 0-62 mph time of 7.7 seconds. The off-road appearance is similar to that of the highly popular Crosstrek and we're not complaining.

What we're still unsure about is, aside from standard AWD, how will Subaru market the Solterra so it stands out from the bZ4X? Both have the same plastic cladding, fenders, and angled headlights and taillights. The whole thing is very similar to the relationship between the BRZ and GR86. And yet, each of those sports coupes has managed to do just fine despite being nearly identical. Time will tell if this will work again.

There's no word yet on pricing. This is Subie's first foray into EVs, so expect to find generous federal and state incentives that'll shave off thousands. We'll have complete coverage next week from the showroom floor at the LA Convention Center.