Are subarus good on gas?
Subarus generally offer solid fuel economy for all-wheel-drive vehicles, with many gasoline-powered models delivering around 28–33 mpg combined. Hybrids and electric options further boost efficiency. The trade-off for standard AWD is extra weight, which can shave a bit off mileage versus front-wheel-drive rivals.
How fuel economy varies across Subaru's lineup
Below is a snapshot of typical MPG ranges for common gasoline-powered Subarus, noting that real-world numbers depend on year, drivetrain, and trim.
What drives mileage in AWD models
Engine size, turbocharging, transmission choice, and the AWD system all influence efficiency. EPA estimates vary with configuration, and actual mileage depends on driving conditions, terrain, and climate.
Before listing, the figures reflect typical configurations in recent model years.
- Crosstrek (gasoline 2.0L with CVT): typically around 29–31 mpg combined; highway mileage often in the low to mid-30s.
- Forester (2.5L): typically about 29–30 mpg combined; highway fuel economy commonly in the low 30s.
- Outback (2.5L): typically around 28–29 mpg combined; highway in the low 30s; the 2.4L turbo offers higher power with lower overall mpg.
- Legacy (2.5L): typically about 28–29 mpg combined; highway often in the mid-30s.
- Impreza (gasoline 2.0L): typically around 30–32 mpg combined; highway numbers can approach the upper 30s in some trims.
- WRX (2.4L turbo): performance-oriented variant with mpg commonly in the low 20s to high 20s combined; city in the teens to 20s, highway near 30 mpg in some configurations.
These ranges reflect typical EPA estimates for current gasoline configurations and illustrate the general picture across the lineup; actual results vary by year and trim, and can be affected by tire choice and load.
Hybrid and electric options that change the efficiency picture
Subaru is expanding its efficiency options beyond traditional gasoline engines. Here are the main models that affect overall fuel costs and emissions.
- Crosstrek Hybrid: a gasoline-electric hybrid pairing a 2.0L engine with an electric motor; EPA ratings commonly place it in the mid-30s mpg combined, with stronger urban efficiency.
- Solterra: Subaru's fully electric SUV, which shifts the conversation away from gasoline mileage toward MPGe and energy use; it does not use gasoline propulsion.
These options reflect Subaru's strategy to improve efficiency without sacrificing all-wheel-drive capability; hybrids and the electric model target urban efficiency and emissions reductions.
Tips to maximize fuel economy in Subaru models
Improving mpg is about driving habits, maintenance, and load management. Useful steps include:
- Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure and rotate tires as scheduled to maintain rolling efficiency.
- Follow the maintenance schedule for spark plugs, air filters, and oil changes; clean filters help the engine breathe more efficiently.
- Use cruise control on highways when appropriate and anticipate traffic to minimize unnecessary acceleration and braking.
- Avoid unnecessary weight and roof racks when not needed; AWD increases weight and may reduce economy slightly.
Small, consistent adjustments can yield noticeable gains in real-world fuel economy across Subaru models.
Summary
Subarus generally offer solid gas mileage for their class, especially with gasoline engines that favor efficiency and with non-turbo setups. Expect mpg in the high-20s to low-30s combined for most non-turbo models, with hybrids and the Solterra EV providing higher efficiency. When comparing, consider the trade-off of standard all-wheel drive, the engine choice, and your typical driving conditions. For the best balance of economy and capability, the non-turbo 2.0L engines and the Crosstrek Hybrid are strong options, while exact figures require checking the EPA ratings for the specific year and configuration you’re considering.
