Subaru Solterra vs Toyota bZ4X
Two electric SUVs go head to head. Which EV is the better buy for Australian drivers in 2026?
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Subaru Solterra starts from $61,990 before on-road costs, while the Toyota bZ4X opens at $55,990. That makes the Toyota bZ4X the more affordable entry point by $6,000.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $68,189 and $61,589 respectively.
Both models qualify for Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) exemption, which is a significant advantage for salary-sacrificed novated leases. Depending on your tax bracket, this can save $5,000-$15,000+ per year compared to an equivalent ICE vehicle.
Safety Rundown
Both the Subaru Solterra and Toyota bZ4X hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 88% for the Subaru Solterra and 88% for the Toyota bZ4X.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. Both models are evenly matched with 5 out of 10 key ADAS systems.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera.
Feature Showdown
The Subaru Solterra features a 14-inch touchscreen paired with a 7-inch digital dash, while the Toyota bZ4X gets a 14-inch display and 7-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Subaru Solterra stands out with Apple CarPlay, head-up display, heated front seats and V2L that you will not find on the Toyota bZ4X. The Toyota bZ4X counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Subaru Solterra uses a Electric Motor producing 252kW and 455Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a AWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 6.9 seconds.
The Toyota bZ4X responds with a Electric making 150kW and 266Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 7.5 seconds.
The Subaru Solterra has the clear power advantage at 252kW vs 150kW. In the real-world sprint, the Subaru Solterra is 0.6s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 74.7kWh (Subaru Solterra) vs 71.4kWh (Toyota bZ4X), giving WLTP ranges of 517km and 516km. DC fast charging peaks at 150kW (Subaru Solterra) vs 150kW (Toyota bZ4X).
Space & Comfort
The Subaru Solterra measures 4,690mm long on a 2,850mm wheelbase, matching the Toyota bZ4X at 4,690mm (2,850mm wheelbase).
Boot space is 452L in the Subaru Solterra and 500L in the Toyota bZ4X, giving the Toyota bZ4X a 48L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.2m to 11.2m
Based on 11.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Subaru Solterra) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Toyota bZ4X). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Subaru Solterra if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Subaru's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Toyota bZ4X if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, or prefer Toyota's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Subaru Solterra takes 6 of 8 key spec categories. If boot space matters, the Toyota bZ4X has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Subaru Solterra and Toyota bZ4X?
The Toyota bZ4X is the cheapest at $55,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Subaru Solterra by $6,000.
Which has the longest driving range?
The Subaru Solterra has the most range at 517km (WLTP).
Which charges fastest?
The Subaru Solterra accepts the highest DC charging at up to 150kW.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Subaru Solterra and Toyota bZ4X all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Toyota bZ4X has the largest boot at 500L.
Which can tow the most?
The Toyota bZ4X has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,500kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Subaru Solterra makes the most power at 252kW. The Subaru Solterra is quickest to 100km/h in 6.9s.
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Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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