2026 Subaru Solterra XT: The Sequel That's Better Than the Original

Last year, we got a chance to get behind the wheel of the Subaru Solterra, the Subaru-badged version of Toyota's bZ4X crossover SUV. At the time, we proclaimed it the "Best BusyForks That Isn't A Toyota" — and we found its rugged styling and practical features worth a look. But at the same time, we felt it wasn't quite as ready for adventure as its nameplate would expect. Last month, Nikki got the chance to drive the updated 2026 Solterra XT (or rather, the range-topping Solterra Touring XT). With meaningful upgrades on the previous model year, it packs more power, more range, better charging, and an overall better experience that makes it truly ready for adventures off the beaten trail. Here's why it's well worth a test-drive... if you can cope with its propensity to nag — and its musical tendencies. ---- ⏱️ Chapter Breakdown: 00:00 - Introduction  01:58 - Montage  03:23 - Recap: The Original Solterra vs. Toyota bZ4X  04:41 - New Motors & Off-Road Modes  08:47 - 2026 Motor Lineup & Battery Upgrades  12:59 - Real-World Range vs. EPA Claims  15:29 - Interior Comfort & Cockpit Layout  18:08 - Buttons, Nagging & Chimes  22:20 - Driving Feel: Position, Acceleration & Steering  26:53 - Safety, Visibility & Practicality  31:33 - Tech & Audio 34:55 - Cons Roundup  39:29 - Verdict, Pricing & Who It's For  43:00 - Thanks and Goodbye! --- 👥 Today’s Sponsors 🌱 Electric Vehicle Association - https://www.myeva.org ⚡ EnergySage - https://www.kqzyfj.com/click-10129094... — ✊ Get Involved 🗳️ https://indivisible.org/town-hall-res... ❤️ Support the Show 📰 https://www.transportevolved.com 🔥   / transportevolved   ☕ https://ko-fi.com/transportevolved 📺    / transportevolved   👕 https://www.redbubble.com/people/Tran... 🛍️ https://amzn.to/40xOyjm ₿ 1QRZRGCCXUKPDZ2DZ9KX9JYJXMZDYHYGFZ0MN4WH 💬 Join the Conversation 🐘 https://mastodon.transportevolved.com... 💬   / discord   💬 https://fluxer.gg/mcj8aehg 🌀 https://bsky.app/profile/transportevo... 🔁 Subscribe to our 2nd channel -    / transportevolvedtake2   --- 🎙️ Credits: Host, Script, Editor: Nikki Gordon-Bloomfield Color: Vi Horton Art & Animation : Erin Carlie Producer: Nikki Gordon-Bloomfield Music: via Artlist.io