Toyota and Subaru recently expanded their partnership, which brought about the enjoyable 86 and BRZ twins, to introduce two all-electric SUVs. The Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra share the same platform, powertrain, and styling. Just like the sports cars that came before them, the bZ4X and Solterra are near-identical twins.
With so many similarities, choosing between the bZ4X and Solterra may be difficult. We’ll take a look at both EVs to see which one deserves a spot in your garage.
What the Toyota bZ4X Gets Right
Despite being nearly identical to one another, the bZ4X is the cheaper of the two electric vehicles. Pricing for the bZ4X starts at $43,215 (with destination), which is $3,005 more than the Solterra which costs $46,220. For consumers looking to purchase an EV on a budget, the bZ4X is the better option.
The difference in pricing comes from the fact that the Toyota offers the bZ4X with a standard single-motor configuration with front-wheel drive, while the Solterra is only available with dual electric motors and all-wheel drive. Not only does this make the bZ4X cheaper, it also gives the bZ4X more range. The base bZ4X has an estimated range of up to 252 miles with the Solterra having an estimated range of up to 228 miles.
Both the bZ4X and Solterra have similar interior designs, though Toyota will offer its electric SUV with a yoke-style steering wheel. Unlike the yoke-steering wheels found on other electric cars, the bZ4X’s features an electronic steer-by-wire system that has a 150-degree lock-to-lock. The yoke steering wheel will also be available to be adjusted through different drive modes. Subaru will offer the Solterra with a traditional steering wheel.
Read Our Overview of the Toyota bZ4X
What the Subaru Solterra Gets Right
Like other Subarus, the Solterra is aimed at consumers that enjoy an adventure-filled lifestyle. That much is apparent with the Solterra’s standard AWD system and 8.3 inches of ground clearance. Subaru offers its X-Mode feature with hill ascent and descent assist as standard, while it’s available on the bZ4X.
While the Solterra and bZ4X have nearly the same exterior design, the Solterra looks slightly more mainstream thanks to its more traditional front end. Subaru’s designers fitted the SUV’s front end with a grille, while the bZ4X’s front end is more radical with a grille-less look. The headlights on the Toyota also look a bit strange, as the top portion is covered by a trim piece. The rear taillights on the Subaru aren’t as dramatic as the bZ4X’s either. Overall, we’re fans of the way the Solterra looks.
Read Our Overview of the Subaru Solterra
Don’t Forget About Federal Tax Credits
Toyota is expected to hit the 200,000-vehicle cap this year, where the federal tax credits for its electric vehicles will begin to decrease. Subaru hasn’t hit the cap yet and shouldn’t for quite some time. For shoppers that can take advantage of the federal tax credit, the Solterra will be a better choice, as it could be more affordable.
Our Verdict
Choosing between the Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra comes down to which one you can get at a more affordable price and which one you think looks better. From our perspective, the bZ4X is the winner because it has more range, is more affordable, and is being offered with a cutting-edge yoke-style steering wheel. If you qualify for any portion of the federal tax credit, the Solterra is a better buy.
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