Subaru and Volvo have both recently entered the electric vehicle market with their first battery-powered models – the Solterra SUV and the XC40 Recharge. These small crossovers represent each automaker‘s initial foray into the EV segment and offer an intriguing alternative for buyers looking to go electric. But how do they stack up against each other? This in-depth side-by-side comparison examines the key differences buyers should consider when choosing between the 2023 Subaru Solterra and 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge.
Brief Histories of Subaru and Volvo‘s EV Programs
Although new to fully electric vehicles, Subaru and Volvo are no strangers to innovative powertrains.
Subaru‘s green efforts date back to the mid-2000s when they introduced their first gas-electric hybrid model. More recently, they have focused on further improving efficiencies in their traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. The Solterra SUV represents Subaru‘s first serious push towards full electrification, co-developed along with Toyota based on the bZ4X platform.
Volvo has taken a more aggressive approach to electrification over the past decade. They‘ve offered plug-in hybrid variants of several models since 2012 and last year began transitioning their entire lineup to become all electric by 2030. The XC40 Recharge is the first model to reach full EV status, instantly becoming Volvo‘s flagship green vehicle.
So while neither company has extensive EV experience yet, they both have made significant commitments to further electric offerings in coming years.
Powertrain and Performance Specs
The Volvo XC40 is by far the more powerful electric crossover, producing over 400 horsepower compared to the Solterra‘s 215 horses.
This huge advantage in output allows the XC40 Recharge to accelerate from 0-60 mph a full 2 seconds quicker than the Solterra, hitting that speed in just 4.7 seconds. The Volvo also has a slightly higher electronically-limited top speed of 112 mph versus 110 mph in the Subaru.
Torque output is similarly skewed towards the XC40, with 486 lb-ft available instantly from its dual motors. The Solterra makes do with 249 lb-ft from its single rear motor – still plenty for most needs but far behind what the Volvo‘s sophisticated AWD powertrain can deliver.
The Subaru fights back by being more efficient, earning an EPA rating of 104 MPGe combined compared to just 79 MPGe for the XC40 Recharge. Real-world range comparisons follow this same pattern…
Range and Charging Comparison
The Subaru Solterra enjoys a slight range advantage over the Volvo XC40 Recharge on paper – 228 miles versus 223 per charge. But Volvo‘s superior charging technology allows the XC40 to replenish its battery far quicker than the Solterra can manage.
Using DC fast charging, the XC40 can add 140 miles of range in just 20 minutes. The Solterra requires 30 minutes to add that same approximate amount of charge. And charging the battery from 10% to 80% capacity takes roughly 37 minutes in the Volvo versus 56 minutes in the Subaru.
At slower Level 2 stations, you‘re looking at 7 hours to fully recharge the XC40 battery or about 9 hours to top up the Solterra pack from empty.
So while the Solterra initially promises 5 more miles of maximum range, the XC40 can actually spend less time plugged in to charging ports on longer road trips. The Subaru‘s slower charging is certainly a factor buyers must consider that slightly downgrades its usable real-world range capabilities.
Driver Assistance and Safety
As with any vehicles bearing these brands‘ badges, both the Subaru Solterra and Volvo XC40 Recharge come loaded with the latest advanced safety gear. Their driver assist features essentially match up feature for feature. You‘ll find:
- Forward Collision Warning w/ Automatic Emergency Braking
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Lane Departure Warning
- Lane Keeping Assistance
- Adaptive Cruise Control
Crash protection is also excellent in both crossovers, earning Top Safety Pick + accolades from the IIHS as well as 5-star overall ratings from the NHTSA. Simply put, Subaru and Volvo continue to lead the industry in designing some of the safest vehicles on the road regardless of powertrain type.
In terms of self-driving capability however, the XC40 does pull ahead slightly by offering more advanced autonomous features available such as Pilot Assist driver assistance and hands-free highway driving aid. But neither vehicle offers a full self-driving experience that could allow drivers to completely disengage from driving responsibilities. Behind the wheel attention is mandatory in both the Solterra and XC40 Recharge at all times.
Styling and Interior Room Comparison
The Subaru Solterra features a more youthful, adventure-oriented exterior design than the traditional luxury styling of the Volvo XC40 Recharge. Whether you prefer one look over the other is certainly subjective. But in terms of interior passenger and cargo space, the Solterra does hold a definite advantage.
Passenger room is quite similar, with both crossovers proving comfortable for four average-sized adults. Smaller occupants can fit reasonably well in the middle rear seat too. But cargo room favors the Solterra by a significant margin. With the rear seats up, it provides 27.7 cubic feet of storage versus just 16 cu ft in the XC40 Recharge. Fold the rear seats down, and you‘re looking at 63 cu ft in the Solterra and 47 cu ft in the Volvo.
Clearly cargo utility is a strength for the Solterra, thanks in part to its more wagon-like profile. The XC40 instead prioritizes a more upscale cabin aesthetic, with interior trims featuring less hard plastic than you typically find in Subaru models. Ultimately cargo practicality versus interior luxury comes down again to personal preference.
Infotainment and Connectivity
If you‘re someone who lives life through their smartphone screen, Volvo‘s unique Android-powered infotainment system offers incredible integration with Google‘s services. The XC40 Recharge‘s tabletsque landscape display centralizes apps and information just like your Android phone would. And with Google Assistant voice functionality, operating various vehicle controls hands-free is easier than Subaru‘s traditional menu-based system.
But don‘t think the Solterra‘s dual screens are overly complex to use either. The interface still proves responsive and simple enough to navigate. Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration is also supported on its 12.3" touch display too. Like other Subarus, physical toggle switches for climate controls also come in handy.
In terms of internet connectivity, both SUVs come equipped with built-in WiFi hotspots with trial subscription periods included from each automaker. Satellite radio and navigation are also standard across trims for both models.
Pricing and Value Comparison
Being luxury offerings from premium brands, neither vehicle is inexpensive despite their small crossover footprints. But MSRP for the 2023 Subaru Solterra does start almost $9,000 less than the 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge.
Solterra pricing begins at $44,995 for the well-equipped base trim, topping out around $49,000 for the Limited Edition model with every factory option. Volvo asks $53,550 to start for a dual-motor XC40 Recharge Core trim, stretching beyond $65,000 for the Ultimate Package model.
Considering the performance advantages of the XC40 Recharge, some buyers may consider its additional cost reasonable. But value-focused drivers who don‘t require 400+ horsepower will likely see greater long-term worth in the more affordable Solterra.
In terms of electrified brand cache, the Volvo also holds an edge as owners may perceive the XC40 Recharge as more prestigious. But for Subaru loyalists committed to AWD capability, the all-wheel drive Solterra makes tremendous sense without sending them down a path towards unknown EV maintenance. Both options have merits depending on preferences.
Key Factors Favoring Each Electric Crossover
2023 Subaru Solterra Advantages
- Lower base MSRP and overall cost of ownership
- Slightly better maximum driving range
- More cargo space behind rear seats
- Higher ground clearance better suited for rougher roads
2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge Advantages
- Significantly quicker acceleration and overall performance
- Faster battery charging capability minimizes downtime
- More advanced self-driving and semi-autonomous features
- Luxury styling and brand image commanding higher resale value
Which Electric Crossover Is Right For You?
For buyers who adventure off the beaten path frequently, there is no question the Subaru Solterra makes more sense than the more city-oriented Volvo XC40 Recharge. With 8.3 inches of ground clearance and standard AWD grip, the Solterra can traverse rougher terrain that most crossovers couldn‘t dream of. Flat tires shouldn’t be much concern either thanks to Subaru’s tire repair kit.
Families needing maximum cargo space should also view the Solterra as the superior pick. Over 25 cubic feet behind the rear seat is crossover-leading capacity perfect for road trips and Home Depot runs alike. The XC40 Recharge’s cramped cargo hold pales in comparison.
But performance seekers desiring a more premium driving experience will love the Volvo XC40 Recharge over the Solterra all day. With Ferrari-like acceleration and an upscale cabin filled with the latest tech, the XC40 Recharge looks and feels like $65,000 well spent. Minimal compromises make it easy to justify the XC40 Recharge’s higher asking price for those less concerned about practicality.
At the end of the day, Subaru plays to capability and value strengths with their first Solterra EV. Volvo banks on prestige and performance with the equally impressive XC40 Recharge. Different priorities and budgets will determine which best fits your lifestyle. But either model serves as a phenomenal first electric offering from their respective automakers. Drivers really can‘t make a poor choice between the 2023 Subaru Solterra and 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge.
