Subaru Solterra EV makes ASEAN debut at the 2023 Singapore Motor Show

The 2023 Subaru Solterra electric vehicle (EV) made its ASEAN debut at the 2023 Singapore Motor Show, showcasing the brand’s latest push for electrification. 

After returning from a three-year hiatus, the Singapore Motor Show is back and better than ever, ready to exhibit the best and newest cars from manufacturers. 

One of the highlights from the show was the Subaru Solterra - it's the brand’s first foray into the electric vehicle segment.

Also read: Toyota bZ4X EV equivalent to ₱4.4 million, launches in Indonesia

Futuristic but familiar styling

Looks familiar? This is because the Subaru Solterra is the twin of the Toyota bZ4X with just a few tweaks done to the body. 

The Solterra, after all, is the result of a joint venture between Subaru and Toyota to create a crossover EV.

The Solterra sets itself apart from its Toyota twin by carrying an enclosed hexagonal grille, a unique set of LED headlights with C-shaped LED daytime running lights, a revised front bumper, foglights, and new c-shaped LED tail lights. 

Something to note is that the model displayed at the motor show came in a left-hand drive configuration. 

Spacious and futuristic interior

Inside, the Subaru Solterra retains the same cabin layout as the Toyota BZ4X with a few minor tweaks. These come in the form of trim updates and Subaru logos.

The dashboard layout is multi-layered, featuring two large displays for the driver and the infotainment system. 

If the display vehicle is similar to the US model, it's safe to assume that it will come with premium leather seats and high-quality materials. 

Two electric motors and 218 PS on tap

While we don’t know what version of the Subaru Solterra was displayed at the motor show, we can tell you that the electric crossover packs some serious punch in its dual motor all-wheel drive form.

Its 80 kW motors produce 217 PS and 338 Nm of torque. It also carries a 71.4 kWh lithium-ion battery pack with a maximum range of about 500 kilometers. With this much power on tap, the electric crossover can hit a 0-100 km/h time in 8.3 seconds.

Its 2WD version, on the other hand, only makes 204 PS and 266 Nm of torque from just a single electric motor. 

Will it come to the Philippines?

If and when the Subaru Solterra will come to the Philippines is still being determined. 

Motor Image, the local distributor of Subaru in the ASEAN region, has yet to release any information about it as they are still evaluating its viability in the area. If there is interest in the region, then Subaru will likely bring it in. 

To note, Toyota Motor Philippines is said to be serious about bringing the Subaru Solterra's EV twin, the bZ4X, to the Philippines this year. Toyota's first full EV model is already available in Indonesia and Thailand and will also enter the Malaysian market this 2023. 

Should Subaru Philippines bring in the Solterra EV, or should they wait for the infrastructure to catch up first?