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Check out the 2023 Subaru Solterra and its striking angular design. Doesn’t the Subaru Solterra remind you of another SUV? It has a look that feels similar to the incredibly popular Toyota RAV4. So, what exactly do these SUVs have in common? 

Did the 2023 Subaru Solterra copy the Toyota RAV4? 

Blue-gray 2023 Subaru Solterra EV parked near a field, for information on release date, price, and specs
2023 Subaru Solterra EV | Subaru

While the Subaru Solterra looks similar to the Toyota RAV, it didn’t exactly copy it. The Subaru Solterra all-electric SUV was actually developed in conjunction with Toyota. So, they share equipment and design aspects. 

But the Solterra is more closely related to the new Toyota bZ4X than the RAV4. The Solterra and bZ4X are the results of the joint partnership between Subaru and Toyota. Aside from styling, the two electric SUVs share the same midsection and could be identical units. 

However, the Solterra does feature massive wheel arch moldings. This styling goes back to the Subaru Baja. Only with the Solterra, the model covers part of the charging port near the driver’s door. 

How much power does the Solterra have? 

The Subaru Solterra made its debut globally but will be revealed in America next week during the LA Auto Show. It’s expected to start around $37,000, which feels a bit high for a non-luxury option. We’re still waiting to see how many different trim levels will be available for the Solterra and Toyota bZ4X. 

With the bZ4X, you get standard front-wheel drive with a single electric motor setup. It delivers 201 hp. The all-wheel drive version with two electric motors increases the power to 215 hp. The Solterra has the same options. 

However, the Solterra has three driving modes, including Eco, Normal, and Power. It may also feature Subaru X-Modes that provide more control in slippery conditions by independently modulating the traction to each wheel. 

Plus, the Grip Control feature acts like a low-speed cruise control system for off-roading. The steering wheel includes paddles that allow the regenerative-braking force to be adjusted. 

The bZ4X is expected to accelerate from 0 to 63 mph in about 7.7 seconds. It has a 64.0-kWh battery pack that should deliver an estimated 230 miles of driving range per charge. The AWD variant has an estimated range of 200 miles. 

Fast charging will be standard for the bZ4X, and integrated solar panels will capture enough energy to provide about 1,000 miles of driving range annually.  

How is the Solterra’s interior? 

Steering wheel, touchscreen, and front seats in 2023 Subaru Solterra crossover EV
2023 Subaru Solterra EV interior | Subaru

Based on the photos floating around, the 2023 Subaru Solterra includes a high-mounted digital gauge cluster, a large infotainment system, and an elevated center console with a rotary shift knob. It’s noticeably similar to the size and layout of the Toyota RAV4 and bZ4X’s interior. 

The large windshield, side glass, and panoramic sunroof fill the cabin with light. There is a mix of attractive yet durable fabrics, promoting an adventurous lifestyle. We can see a variety of innovative storage bins and solutions too. 

We aren’t sure if the Solterra will offer a yolk-type of steering wheel like the bZ4X. It’s similar to the one found in the Tesla Model S. Also, we’re assuming that both of these SUVs feature similar cargo space to the RAV4. 

We will keep you updated as we learn more about the pricing, range, and trim levels for the Subaru Solterra and Toyota bZ4X.

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Staff Writer

Allison Barfield

Allison Barfield joined MotorBiscuit in 2020 and covers all things trucks, SUVs, and Jeeps. Having grown up on a farm in Rock Hill, South Carolina, she’s no stranger to the “Best in Class” truck and SUV debates; people in her hometown were always gathering to help work on vehicles together, and deliberation would naturally arise.

Allison graduated from the University of South Carolina with a degree in Media Arts. She has helped bring awareness to issues Women In Trucking face and has promoted Truckers Against Trafficking, an anti-trafficking NGO.

A fan of creatively dark literature, Allison appreciates the works of Shirley Jackson and Emily Dickenson. She lives in a mountainous area of the country and enjoys off-roading and camping. Her dog, Bruce, often joins her in testing trucks and SUVs for our site.