Over Holy Week, we had the chance to test the largest vehicle in Subaru’s lineup—the Evoltis—and came away impressed by its ability to move seven people in both comfort and style. Positioned as a mid-size crossover, the Evoltis dominates its segment with a commanding presence, yet it’s packed with Subaru’s signature creature comforts and driving dynamics. This leaves you wondering: Is this SUV designed to thrill the driver or indulge the passengers?
Design: 4/5
Despite its spacious interior, the Evoltis maintains a surprisingly sleek exterior profile—only slightly larger than the Forester but far more imposing when parked side by side. Black plastic cladding around the wheel wells and standard roof rails hint at off-road capability, while the 20-inch alloy wheels add a touch of sophistication perfect for urban errands or weekend getaways.
Equipment: 4/5
The Evoltis comes loaded with tech, starting with Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist, which acts like a vigilant co-pilot. Features like lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring ensure confidence on busy highways—though in heavy traffic, the lane assist felt more like a gimmick than a necessity.
The 11.6-inch touchscreen (with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto) paired with a Harman/Kardon sound system kept entertainment seamless, while three-zone climate control and a panoramic moonroof elevated passenger comfort. But the real stars are the second-row captain’s chairs—perfect for VIP treatment on long drives.
Safety isn’t overlooked, with multiple airbags, auto emergency braking, and ISOFIX anchors ensuring peace of mind.
User Experience: 4/5
On the road, the Evoltis excels in refinement. Noise insulation is superb—tire and engine sounds are nearly absent unless you push the 2.4L boxer engine, which delivers a satisfying growl when overtaking. While acceleration has a slight lag, the Evoltis feels surprisingly agile for its size, with torque that makes highway cruising effortless.
Fuel economy is a trade-off: mid-single digits in the city, improving to 9km/L on the expressway. Still, for a vehicle this large, it’s a reasonable compromise.
My wife’s verdict? The second-row AC controls and reclining seats made her feel like royalty—proof that the Evoltis prioritizes passenger luxury as much as driver engagement.
Value: 3/5
Priced at PHP3.78 million, the Evoltis sits at the premium end of its segment. While rivals offer similar tech, Subaru’s signature driving dynamics and those captain’s chairs set it apart. This isn’t an SUV for bargain hunters—it’s for Subaru loyalists and buyers who want a versatile family hauler that doubles as a weekend adventurer.
Bottomline:
As crossovers rise in popularity, the Evoltis stands out with its 7-seat practicality, plush interiors, and spirited performance. While its price may give pause, it’s a compelling upgrade for Subaru fans—combining the brand’s trademark handling with space for the whole family (and their luggage). If you crave comfort without sacrificing driving pleasure, the Evoltis deserves a spot on your test-drive list.
Reviewed by Gian Derek Bambico with photos by Happy Alinsangan
Also published in GADGETS MAGAZINE Volume 25 No. 9 Issue.