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Do Subaru Outbacks get good gas mileage?


The Subaru Outback has long been a popular choice among drivers seeking a reliable and versatile vehicle. Known for its all-wheel drive capabilities and rugged design, many potential buyers often wonder about its fuel efficiency. In this article, we will explore the gas mileage of Subaru Outbacks, comparing different models and providing insights into what you can expect in terms of fuel economy.


Understanding Subaru Outback Fuel Efficiency


The fuel efficiency of the Subaru Outback can vary significantly depending on the model year, engine type, and driving conditions. Generally, the Outback is designed to balance performance with fuel economy, making it a practical choice for both city and highway driving.


Average Gas Mileage by Model Year


Here’s a breakdown of the average gas mileage for various Subaru Outback models:



  • 2020 Subaru Outback: Approximately 26 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway.

  • 2021 Subaru Outback: Similar to the 2020 model, with around 26 MPG city and 33 MPG highway.

  • 2022 Subaru Outback: Maintains the same efficiency, offering about 26 MPG city and 33 MPG highway.

  • 2023 Subaru Outback: Continues the trend with an estimated 26 MPG city and 33 MPG highway.


These figures indicate that the Subaru Outback is quite efficient for a vehicle in its class, especially considering its all-wheel drive system, which can often lead to lower fuel economy in other vehicles.


Factors Affecting Fuel Economy


Several factors can influence the gas mileage of your Subaru Outback:



  • Driving Habits: Aggressive driving, such as rapid acceleration and hard braking, can significantly reduce fuel efficiency.

  • Maintenance: Regular maintenance, including oil changes and tire rotations, can help maintain optimal fuel economy.

  • Load and Cargo: Carrying heavy loads or using roof racks can increase wind resistance and decrease fuel efficiency.

  • Weather Conditions: Cold weather can affect engine performance and fuel economy, as can driving in hilly or mountainous areas.


Conclusion


In summary, the Subaru Outback offers good gas mileage for a vehicle of its size and capability. With an average of around 26 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway for recent models, it stands out as a fuel-efficient option for those who need a reliable vehicle for both daily commutes and outdoor adventures. By considering driving habits and maintaining your vehicle, you can maximize the fuel efficiency of your Subaru Outback.


Frequently Asked Questions

Why are used Subaru Outbacks so expensive?


Because Subaru of America's new car supply is the lowest of any automaker, and the used Subaru inventory is also low, a lightly used, low mileage, three to four-year-old Crosstrek, Forester, or Outback prices will remain high.



How to improve Subaru Outback gas mileage?


Consider the following strategies:

  1. Accelerate gently.
  2. Maintain steady speeds.
  3. Plan your routes.
  4. Check tire pressure regularly.
  5. Using the manufacturer-recommended grade of motor oil improves engine efficiency and offers better ways to improve gas mileage.
  6. Follow the recommended service schedule for your Subaru.



Why are Subarus so fuel efficient?


Subaru models, on the other hand, are designed with AWD in mind from the get-go. Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard on the majority of Subaru models, so they're designed to be optimized for AWD performance right from the start, giving them an efficiency edge.



Which Subaru gets the best gas mileage?


2022 Subaru Impreza
The Subaru vehicle with the highest mpg ratings is the 2022 Subaru Impreza, which offers up to 36 highway mpg and 28 city mpg.



How many miles can a Subaru Outback go on a tank of gas?


The Subaru Outback gas tank size allows for a fuel capacity of 18.5 gallons, which means you can get up to 518 miles of range2 with the standard engine.



Are Subaru Outbacks fuel efficient?


With an EPA-estimated gas mileage of up to 32 miles per gallon, the Subaru Outback ensures seamless travels around Flushing.



Do outbacks need premium gas?


For the majority of Subaru models, such as the Crosstrek, Forester, Outback, Legacy, and Ascent, regular 87-octane fuel is perfectly adequate. These vehicles are designed to run efficiently on regular fuel, providing a good balance of performance, fuel economy, and cost savings.



Why is my Subaru Outback using so much gas?


Keep your tires properly inflated - low tires can translate into greater effort for your car, which means more gas consumption. Keep your air filter clean - by replacing regularly. A clogged filter can add strain to your engine, and it will use more fuel than necessary. Don't carry extra weight!



Should you put premium gas in a Subaru Outback?


If you drive a Crosstrek, Forester, Outback, Legacy or Ascent, your vehicle is designed to run on 87 octane, or regular fuel. Performance Subaru models – the WRX, WRX STI and BRZ – have a premium fuel requirement, but even with those vehicles, check your manual for information on which fuels are appropriate.



Which car gets highest mpg?


Cars with Best Gas Mileage

  • 2025 Toyota Prius. Combined Fuel Economy: Up to 57 mpg.
  • 2025 Hyundai Elantra. Combined Fuel Economy: Up to 54 mpg.
  • 2024 Toyota Prius Prime. Combined Fuel Economy: Up to 52 mpg.
  • 2025 Toyota Prius Plug‑In Hybrid. Combined Fuel Economy: Up to 52 mpg.
  • 2025 Toyota Camry.
  • 2025 Toyota Corolla.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.