The 2026 Subaru Solterra shows that Subaru has been listening. With noticeable improvements in range, charging, and everyday usability, the electric SUV finally feels competitive. But despite all the upgrades, one key drawback could still be a deal-breaker for many EV buyers considering the Solterra in 2026.

Tesla Model Y

Okay, speaking of Tesla, Model Y is like, the “default EV,” right? Everyone’s cousin seems to have one. It’s quick, roomy, and the range hits close to 310 miles, which is awesome. But you know, it’s gotten kinda… boring? I mean, great performance, sure, but the minimalism is so extreme it feels like driving a spaceship IKEA room. Still, for roughly $50k, it’s hard to argue with the convenience of that charging network alone, it’s like having VIP access to electricity.

Hyundai Ioniq 5

Oh man, the Ioniq 5, now that one’s a vibe. It’s like if an ’80s sci-fi movie came to life but made friends with a Scandinavian designer. The inside is chill, super roomy, and it charges from 10% to 80% in like, what, 18 minutes? Wild. Drives smooth too, like buttery smooth. Around $47k feels fair for what you get, though sometimes the regen braking feels a bit grabby. Still, it’s one of those cars that makes people turn their heads, and you can’t say that about too many crossovers.

Ford Mustang Mach-E

So, the Mach-E is kinda like… Ford’s “I wanna be cool too” moment. Some trims are fast, some are meh, but overall? Pretty fun to drive. Not as raw as a real Mustang but it’s got personality. The GT version is a beast though, feels like you’re in a silent rocket. Pricey though, near $55k if you want the good stuff. Ford’s software still feels like version 0.9 instead of 1.0, but hey, progress is progress.

Rivian R1S

Ah, Rivian. The R1S is like the adventure dude of EVs. Tall, boxy, charming in that rugged way, and it drives like a luxury tank. You can totally go camping, then head to dinner downtown and still look classy. Range is around 300 miles, which is fine for how heavy it is. But man, $80,000+ hurts. Still, it’s the kind of car that makes you want to take random weekend trips just because you can.

Kia EV9

Okay, so Kia’s been crushing it lately, and the EV9 is proof. A legit family hauler that’s electric and not boring. Seats seven, looks like a concept car that accidentally made it to production. Starts near $55k, and honestly, it feels worth it. Interior is top-tier for Kia, comfy and stylish but not trying too hard. Only thing? It’s huge, and maneuvering that in tight parking lots feels like Tetris, but electric.

Chevrolet Blazer EV

Now Chevy’s Blazer EV, hmm… mixed feelings. It drives great, powerful as heck, and I love the sporty vibe, but the early software bugs? Oof. They’re fixing stuff now, so okay, redemption arc. Around $50k for the mid trims gets you solid range, maybe 290 miles. I like how it looks though, bold but not overdone. Kind of feels like Chevy’s learning how to do “cool” again.

Volkswagen ID.4

So the ID.4, it’s… fine. Like, not bad, not amazing. It’s the EV equivalent of an oatmeal breakfast, reliable, fills the need, won’t make you excited about life. But it’s comfy, has a smooth ride, and around $40k-ish makes it one of the cheaper ones. The infotainment can be a pain, though, especially the touch sliders that feel like they’re from a rejected phone prototype. Otherwise, decent for city use.

Toyota bZ4X

And then there’s the Toyota bZ4X, which, honestly, still weirds me out. It has that name that sounds like a Wi-Fi password, but it’s alright. The 2026 version’s finally getting better range, around 250 miles, but yeah, it’s still not thrilling. Priced around $45k, just like the Solterra (they’re basically siblings anyway). I just wish it felt more Toyota-like, you know? More solid, less “first try.”

Nissan Ariya

The Ariya kinda flies under the radar, but it’s actually nice. Stylish interior, quiet cabin, that floating console thing, I dig it. Charging is meh, again, but it’s comfy and steady, not flashy. Around $44k gets you a long-range version, and if you’re into chill, reliable vibes, this might be your car. It’s like the introvert of EVs, polite and steady but won’t yell for attention.

Volvo EX30

Okay, gotta shout out the Volvo EX30 before wrapping up, it’s small but mighty. Around $36k and honestly one of the most fun small EVs to drive. Quality interior, zippy acceleration, and that minimalist look done right. Yeah, range is closer to 275 miles only, but that’s plenty for daily life. If you like style with a responsible twist, this one’s a gem.