Subaru Solterra vs. Tesla Model 3: Which One Wins?

As electric vehicles continue gaining popularity, competition has intensified between industry giant Tesla and newcomers like Subaru entering the EV market. How does Subaru’s first all-electric SUV, the Solterra, stack up against Tesla’s immensely popular Model 3 sedan? We dig into the key differences and similarities between these two compelling EVs to determine the superior option based on different driver needs and preferences.

Overview and Key Specs

First, let’s overview some vital statistics for both models:

With seating for five and AWD options, both vehicles can suit most drivers‘ daily needs. However, with an over 100-mile advantage in maximum range, faster charging capabilities, and AWD configurations available, the Tesla Model 3 pulls ahead regarding specifications.

According to EV database InsideEVs, the Model 3 became the world‘s best-selling EV in early 2022, while the Solterra only debuted for the 2023 model year. This difference in track records speaks to Tesla‘s maturity in the EV space compared to Subaru‘s rookie status.

Efficiency and Driving Range

In fuel economy, measured by miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe), the Tesla Model 3 clearly bests the Solterra by a considerable margin.

The Solterra gets an EPA-estimated 114 MPGe in city driving and just 94 MPGe highway. Meanwhile, the rear-wheel drive (RWD) Model 3 earns 140 MPGe city and 123 MPGe highway ratings according to the EPA. Upgrading to the Model 3‘s dual motor all-wheel drive boosts those figures to 134 MPGe city and 117 MPGe highway.

Tesla‘s expertise developing electric powertrains over the past decade contributes to the Model 3‘s superior efficiency. Additionally, the Model 3‘s sleek aerodynamic profile minimizes drag for improved range compared to the boxier Solterra.

Speaking of range, the Solterra promises an estimated 250 miles from its 71.4 kWh battery pack. Impressive, but the rear-wheel drive Model 3 can deliver 263 miles from a smaller 62 kWh battery, demonstrating fantastic efficiency. The Model 3 Long Range bumps range up to 358 miles thanks to a larger 82 kWh pack.

For drivers needing maximum mileage between charging stops, the Tesla Model 3 is the unambiguous winner.

Performance and Handling

In outright performance, the Model 3 blows the Solterra out of the water. Its dual motor Performance model pumps out up to 425 horsepower enabling jaw-dropping 3.1 second 0-60 acceleration and a top speed of 162 mph. Even the "slowest" RWD Model 3 reaches 60 mph in a brisk 5.8 seconds.

By comparison, Subaru‘s first EV feels downright lethargic. Output from its front and rear electric motors combines for just 215 hp, allowing a 0-60 time of 7.0 seconds. The Solterra‘s top speed is a governed 100 mph.

So for driving enthusiasts craving neck-snapping acceleration, the Tesla Model 3 easily outperforms the Solterra. That said, 7 seconds to 60 mph remains plenty quick for most drivers. The Solterra shines instead with Subaru‘s trademark rally car-inspired handling. Its low center of gravity from the floor-mounted battery pack plus standard all-wheel drive helps it handle corners and slippery conditions with aplomb.

Styling and Interior Roominess

Style is subjective, but the Tesla Model 3 certainly makes a bolder design statement compared to Subaru‘s conservative, evolutionary approach with the Solterra. If turning heads is a priority, the slick Model 3 has an edge.

Inside, both vehicles sport streamlined dashboards anchored by large central touchscreens. The Solterra‘s is an 11.6-inch unit running Subaru‘s latest Starlink infotainment interface. Tesla‘s hallmark 15-inch landscape touchscreen remains one of the largest in the industry.

Rear seat passengers get similar room in both EVs, with adequate – if not expansive – legroom. However, the Solterra‘s boxier dimensions help it provide more overall passenger volume. Plus, an adjustable second-row bench (versus the Model 3‘s fixed rear seats) helps load bulky cargo. So families may find the Solterra‘s flexible interior packaging an advantage.

Off-Road Prowess

Here‘s an area where the Subaru Solterra clearly outpaces the Tesla Model 3: off-road capability. With a generous 8.3 inches of ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive, the Solterra can traverse rutted dirt paths and muddy trails much further than the low-slung Model 3.

Charging Considerations

Tesla maintains a wide proprietary Supercharger fast charging network that enables relatively convenient long-distance travel for Model 3 owners. Only Tesla vehicles can access it, and with over 40,000 Superchargers worldwide, range anxiety fades.

Subaru Solterra drivers must rely on public chargers from networks like Electrify America. While coverage continues improving, it can‘t match Tesla‘s vast proprietary network yet.

On the plus side, the Solterra supports 250 kWh charging, enabling an 80% battery top-up in under an hour on compatible Level 3 DC fast chargers. The Model only hits up to 200 kW peaks. So actual charging sessions may take about the same time on appropriate high-speed equipment.

Home and destination charging times are similar for both vehicles using Level 2 (240 volt) equipment: expect full recharges in around 8 to 12 hours.

Safety Tech and Driver Assistance Features

Subaru‘s reputation for safety rides on its EyeSight suite of advanced driver assistance systems. The Solterra includes it as standard equipment, bundling amenities like automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure prevention. Blind spot monitoring is also included.

While Tesla doesn‘t have an official name for its safety features, Autopilot provides similar functionality to Subaru‘s EyeSight, including automated emergency braking and active lane control. Tesla does offer an additional $15,000 Full Self-Driving Capability package that enables automatic driving on highways and city streets – technology no other automaker matches yet.

Both vehicles receive high marks for safety, but Tesla‘s more advanced (yet controversial) self-driving features give it an edge for technology-oriented buyers.

Cost Considerations

The Subaru Solterra starts at $46,220 before any tax incentives or rebates – an affordable price point for an all-electric crossover. In comparison, the Model 3 now commands a $59,990 base price in its cheapest Standard Range Plus form. Cost-conscious EV shoppers may find the Solterra a more wallet-friendly option even accounting for Tesla‘s range and feature advantages.

However, with the $7,500 US federal tax credit for Tesla purchases having expired, Subaru buyers can still redeem up to the full $7,500 credit to help offset the Solterra‘s MSRP. That effectively narrows the price gap. State and local incentives can also make the Solterra an even better value depending on region.

Which Is Better: Solterra or Model 3?

For well-rounded daily transportation that blends range, performance and value, we give the edge to the Tesla Model 3. Its lower cost of operation, access to Tesla‘s Superchargers, high-tech interface and Acceleration and driver engagement reign supreme in the Model 3.

However, buyers wanting more space for passengers and gear, plus the confidence of Subaru‘s proven AWD systems, may prefer the Solterra. Its off-road talents and EyeSight safety tech provide peace of mind no matter where you take it.

In the end, determining whether the Subaru Solterra or Tesla Model 3 is the overall "winner" depends highly on individual priorities and needs. For the optimal electric vehicle driving experience, weigh these key factors like range, performance, charging options and technologies against your budget to make the right choice. Both EVs make compelling options for an eco-friendly upgrade.