Subaru Solterra 2023-2026 Owner's Manual: Cargo and luggage

When using the Subaru Solterra, carefully follow these guidelines regarding cargo handling, storage safety, and load capacity to maintain optimal vehicle performance and passenger protection.

Proper loading in the Subaru Solterra not only improves driving stability but also helps prevent unnecessary strain on suspension, braking, and steering systems.

WARNING

■ Things that must not be carried in the luggage compartment

The following items must never be transported in the Subaru Solterra luggage compartment, as they may pose a serious fire hazard:

• Containers filled with gasoline or other flammable liquids
• Aerosol cans or pressurized containers

■ Storage precautions

Always follow these precautions when loading cargo into the Subaru Solterra.

Improper storage may obstruct pedal operation, limit driver visibility, or allow items to shift and strike occupants, potentially leading to accidents.

• Whenever possible, store all cargo and luggage in the designated luggage compartment of the Subaru Solterra.
• Do not stack items higher than the seatbacks, as this may block rear visibility and increase the risk of items moving forward during sudden stops.
• Avoid placing cargo or loose items in the following locations inside the Subaru Solterra:
  • At the driver’s feet
  • On the front or rear seats when stacking items
  • On the luggage cover (if equipped)
  • On the instrument panel or dashboard
  • Directly in front of the instrument cluster
• Secure all items inside the Subaru Solterra passenger compartment to prevent movement during driving.
• When folding down the rear seats, avoid placing long or heavy objects directly behind the front seats.
• Never allow passengers to ride in the Subaru Solterra luggage compartment, as it is not designed for occupant safety.

  All passengers must be seated properly with seat belts fastened.

Capacity and distribution

The cargo capacity of the Subaru Solterra is determined by the total weight of occupants and the allowable load limit.

(Cargo capacity) = (Total load capacity) - (Total weight of occupants)

Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit -

(1) Locate the label in your Subaru Solterra stating: "The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs."

(2) Calculate the total weight of the driver and all passengers traveling in the Subaru Solterra.

(3) Subtract the total occupant weight from the specified maximum load value (XXX kg or XXX lbs.).

(4) The result represents the maximum allowable cargo and luggage load capacity for your Subaru Solterra.

For example, if the maximum allowable load is 1400 lbs. and five passengers each weigh 150 lbs., the remaining cargo capacity is 650 lbs. (1400 − 750 = 650 lbs.).

(5) Determine the total weight of all cargo and luggage being loaded into the Subaru Solterra.

This value must not exceed the calculated cargo capacity.

(6) If the Subaru Solterra is towing a trailer, part of the trailer load will transfer to the vehicle.

Refer to this manual to understand how towing affects available cargo capacity.

WARNING

■ Capacity and distribution

• Never exceed the Subaru Solterra maximum axle weight rating or the total vehicle weight rating.
• Even if the combined weight of passengers and cargo is within limits, uneven weight distribution in the Subaru Solterra may negatively affect steering stability and braking performance, increasing the risk of serious injury or accidents.

Calculation formula for your vehicle

1. Cargo capacity
2. Total load capacity (vehicle capacity weight)

For the Subaru Solterra, understanding how to calculate allowable cargo weight is essential for safe and efficient operation. When 2 occupants with a combined weight of A lb. (kg) are traveling in a vehicle with a total load capacity of B lb. (kg), the remaining cargo and luggage capacity (C) is calculated as follows:

B*2 lb. (kg) - A*1 lb. (kg) = C*3 lb.(kg)

*1:A = Combined weight of occupants
*2:B = Total load capacity of the Subaru Solterra
*3:C = Available cargo and luggage capacity

If additional passengers enter the Subaru Solterra, the available cargo capacity must be reduced accordingly. For example, if 3 more passengers with a combined weight of D lb. (kg) are added, the new available cargo capacity (E) becomes:

C lb. (kg) - D*4 lb. (kg) = E*5 lb.(kg)

*4:D = Additional occupant weight
*5:E = Remaining cargo and luggage capacity

This calculation demonstrates that in the Subaru Solterra, any increase in passenger weight directly reduces the amount of cargo that can be safely carried. If the combined weight of occupants and cargo exceeds the maximum allowed limit, cargo must be reduced immediately to maintain safe driving conditions.

WARNING

■ When loading cargo on the roof luggage carrier (if equipped)

Always follow these safety precautions when transporting cargo on the Subaru Solterra roof carrier:

• Distribute the load evenly across the Subaru Solterra roof to maintain balanced weight between the front and rear axles.
• When carrying oversized items, ensure that they do not exceed the overall length or width of the Subaru Solterra.
• Before driving, confirm that all cargo on the Subaru Solterra roof carrier is firmly secured and cannot shift during movement.
• Loading cargo on the roof raises the Subaru Solterra center of gravity. Drive cautiously by avoiding high speeds, sudden acceleration, sharp turns, or abrupt braking, as these actions may lead to loss of control or rollover.
• During long trips, off-road driving, or high-speed travel, periodically stop and check that the cargo remains properly secured on the Subaru Solterra.
• The total combined weight of cargo, roof carrier, and attachments on the Subaru Solterra must not exceed 176 lb. (80 kg).

NOTICE

■ When loading cargo on the roof luggage carrier (if equipped)

When placing cargo on the Subaru Solterra roof, take care not to damage or scratch the surface of the panoramic moonroof, if equipped.

Roof tent (models with roof rails)

The Subaru Solterra may support the use of a roof-mounted tent under specific conditions. However, installation and use are at the owner’s responsibility, and proper weight limits and safety precautions must always be observed.

WARNING

■ For safe use

When operating the Subaru Solterra, adding cargo to the roof significantly influences vehicle dynamics. Increased weight above the center of gravity may negatively affect handling, braking distance, and rollover resistance.

For this reason, the Subaru Solterra must never be driven if the total load on the roof rails exceeds 176 lb. (80 kg).

NOTICE

■ When loading cargo on the roof luggage carrier

• The Subaru Solterra roof rail load limit for stationary conditions (700 lb. [317 kg]) applies only when the vehicle is parked on level ground and the load is evenly distributed both left to right and front to rear. Additionally, all roof components—including crossbars and roof tent—must be securely installed. If these conditions are not met, the allowable load will be reduced.
• The maximum load rating of the Subaru Solterra roof crossbars should always be verified with the manufacturer or supplier. While driving, the allowable load is limited to 176 lb. (80 kg) or the crossbar rating—whichever is lower.
• Roof tents should only be installed on Subaru Solterra models equipped with factory roof rails. Installing such equipment on vehicles without proper support may lead to structural damage.

■ When driving the vehicle

During operation of the Subaru Solterra, the combined weight placed on the roof rails—including crossbars and any attached equipment—must not exceed 176 lb. (80 kg) and must be distributed evenly.

1. Roof rails
2. Roof crossbars
3. Roof tent

B + C < 176 lb. (80 kg)

■ When the vehicle is parked on level ground

1. Roof rails
2. Roof crossbars
3. Roof tent
4. Occupants in the roof tent

• When the Subaru Solterra is stationary on a level surface, the total load applied to the roof rails—including crossbars, roof tent, occupants, and all contents—must not exceed either the maximum roof rail capacity of 700 lb. (317 kg), evenly distributed, or the rated capacity of the roof crossbars, whichever is lower.

Load limit of the roof rail (A).

B + C + D < 700 lb. (317 kg)

• Exceeding the Subaru Solterra roof load limits may result in structural damage to the roof system or attached equipment, and could compromise safety.

  The Subaru Solterra must never be driven while occupants are inside the roof tent.

  Before driving, ensure all passengers and loose items are removed from the roof tent, and verify that the total roof load has been reduced to within the driving limit of 176 lb. (80 kg).

  Always refer to the roof tent manufacturer’s instructions for correct installation, usage guidelines, and safety precautions when using roof-mounted accessories with the Subaru Solterra.