So you‘re trying to choose between the new 2023 Subaru Solterra electric crossover and the Kia EV6. As an EV analyst, I‘ve done a thorough comparison to help you pick which model better fits your needs.
First, what are these vehicles? The Solterra is Subaru‘s first all-electric SUV. The EV6 spearheads Kia‘s own electric shift. Both blend SUV practicality with instant electric torque and everyday usability. But with different strengths, should you go Solterra or EV6?
I‘ve comprehensively analyzed every key category – performance, battery, features, safety, space, and value. My goal is to arm you with enough facts and insights so you can confidently decide which crossover suits your priorities. Let‘s dive in!
Overview of Key Specs
Before weighing each category, here‘s a specifications overview of both electric crossovers:
| Specification | Subaru Solterra | Kia EV6 |
|---|---|---|
| Drive Wheels | Dual Motor AWD | RWD or Dual Motor AWD |
| Horsepower / Torque | 215 hp / 249 lb-ft | 225 hp – 576 hp / 258-546 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph Time | 6.5 seconds | 3.4-6.2 seconds |
| Battery Size | 72.8 kWh | 58-77.4 kWh |
| EPA Range | 228 miles | 232-310 miles |
| Passenger Volume | 103.6 cubic feet | 103.6 cubic feet |
| Cargo Volume | 27.7 / 56.9 cubic feet | 24.4 / 50.2 cubic feet |
| Starting Price | $44,995 | $40,900 |
Performance – Quick or Quicker?
Performance-wise, the Subaru Solterra utilizes a balanced dual-motor AWD layout generating 215 hp and 249 lb-ft of torque. This allows properly brisk acceleration, hitting 60 mph from standstill in 6.5 seconds. The Solterra‘s strong suit lies off-pavement, with its generous 8.3-inch ground clearance and Grip Control system enhancing traction over mud or trails.
The Kia EV6 offers two configurations: RWD or AWD. Even base Light RWD models produce a healthy 225 horses and 258 lb-ft, eclipsing the Solterra. Peppering the go-pedal provokes a run to 60 mph in a rapid 6.2 seconds. For maximum acceleration, the exotic GT line deploys 430kW motors churning out 576 hp and 546 lb-ft – supercar territory! This allows an incredible 3.4 sec 0-60 sprint.
Clearly the EV6 brings vastly quicker acceleration, especially in top-trim GT form. But don‘t dismiss the Solterra‘s off-road talents, thanks to its advanced AWD platform.
Battery Efficiency – Go Farther or Recharge Faster?
The Solterra stores its juice within a 72.8 kWh lithium-ion battery, capable of delivering up to 228 miles range based on EPA testing. Recharging from near-empty to 80% capacity via DC fast charging requires around 56 minutes. Fine for everyday use, but road trip refueling could be quicker.
In comparison, the Kia EV6 packs batteries ranging from 58-77.4 kWh. This liberates an EPA-rated driving distance between 232-310 miles, eclipsing the Solterra by up to 35%! But arguably more impressive is the EV6‘s charging curve: an ultra-rapid 18 minutes for that 10-80% fast charge top-up.
Clearly in both travel range and charging speed, the EV6 possesses key EV advantages over the Solterra. If maximizing miles or minimizing charging stops are vital, the Kia holds the cards.
Tech, Safety and Driver Assistance
Modern vehicles rely on technology for entertainment, connectivity, and safety. Here‘s a brief overview of some key offerings:
The Subaru Solterra centralizes access to tech features through its 12.3-inch Starlink touchscreen and available smartphone app. Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto allow navigation via your phone‘s mapping apps. A segment-first driver monitoring camera adds extra safety oversight in conjunction with Subaru‘s EyeSight system encompassing lane centering assist, adaptive cruise and emergency auto braking. Newly added blind spot warning also provides coverage.
In Kia‘s EV6 cockpit, a matching 12-inch touchscreen runs the brand‘s latest UVO interface. Twin 10-inch screens handle cluster and navigation duties on certain trims. Wireless device charging, ventilated front seats, Highway Driving Assist 2 semi-autonomous driving aid and remote parking via your keyfob are all available too. Like Subaru‘s suite, the Kia bundles blind spot monitoring, automated emergency braking, rear cross traffic alert and more.
It‘s really six of one, half dozen of the other here folks! You‘ll have plenty of tech and safety cover regardless of your choice.
Passenger and Cargo Room
As compact crossovers, both EVs sport similar interior dimensions targeting young families or empty nesters. Let‘s scrutinize the measured capacity numbers:
Subaru Solterra
- Seating: 5 passengers
- Passenger volume: 103.6 cubic feet
- Cargo volume behind rear seat: 27.7 cubic feet
- Total cargo volume with seats folded: 56.9 cubic feet
Kia EV6
- Seating: 5 passengers
- Passenger volume: 100.1 cubic feet
- Cargo volume behind rear seat: 24.4 cubic feet
- Total cargo volume with seats folded: 50.2 cubic feet
Very close in passenger room, but the Solterra does carve out a bit more cargo hauling utility – handy for that IKEA run!
Value Comparison – Which Electric Crossover Is Cheaper?
Now to the money part – MSRP pricing and value! Here‘s how the electric crossovers stack up:
2023 Subaru Solterra Pricing
- Solterra Premium: $44,995
- Solterra Limited: $48,495
- Potential Federal Tax Credit: $7,500
- Total 5-Year Cost: $51,505 (Premium with tax credit)
2023 Kia EV6 Pricing
- EV6 Light RWD: $47,000
- EV6 Wind RWD: $50,900
- EV6 GT Line AWD: $58,500
- Potential Federal Tax Credit: $7,500
- Total 5-Year Cost: $60,230 (Wind RWD with tax credit)
When you run the numbers, even the base Solterra Premium significantly undercuts the EV6 Light while delivering standard AWD versus RWD. Factoring potential $7,500 federal tax credits sweetens Subaru‘s value advantage further. Yes, Kia‘s new tax credit eligibility helps reduce costs. But it can‘t fully offset the higher starting MSRPs.
Let‘s Summarize The Key Differences
Driving Performance: Kia EV6 faster, especially high-po EV6 GT
Battery/Range: Kia EV6 up to 35% longer range, faster charging
Tech/Safety Features: Very similar equipment & driver assistance
Cargo Space: Slight cargo edge to Solterra
Pricing/Value: Subaru Solterra cheaper overall after tax credits
Which Electric Crossover Is Right For You?
So there you have it my friend – I‘ve served up a data-driven detailing of Subaru Solterra and Kia EV6 differences spanning performance, battery tech, features, pricing and more key purchase considerations. Which EV crossover best aligns with your top priorities?
Those wanting the ultimate performance EV bargain with supercar acceleration should grab the keys to a Kia EV6 GT Line. But if you prioritize value, driving range, cabin space or adventure-ready AWD traction, the smart money could be on the Subaru Solterra. At the end of the day, aligning each crossover‘s strengths to your needs makes for an informed, rewarding purchase.
I hope this detailed side-by-side analysis gives you confidence picking your perfect electric crossover match. Let me know if you have any other questions!
