Does Subaru use a lot of gas?
Subaru generally offers mid-range fuel economy for its class, with many models delivering respectable efficiency and options for hybrid or electric powertrains to improve gas use further.
Subaru vehicles rely on horizontally opposed “boxer” engines paired with symmetrical all-wheel drive (AWD). This setup emphasizes traction and packaging benefits but can add weight and drivetrain losses, which mildly impact miles-per-gallon compared with front-wheel-drive rivals. The lineup centers on efficient 2.0-liter and 2.5-liter four-cylinder engines, often paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) tuned for economy. Turbocharged variants prioritize power and may consume more fuel. In recent years Subaru has broadened its lineup with hybrid and full-electric options to further reduce gasoline usage.
Gasoline engines and efficiency in Subaru models
Here are the main gasoline powertrains and how they typically perform, in broad terms, across current Subaru models.
- 2.0-liter flat-4 (base engines) in Impreza and Crosstrek/XV: generally in the mid-20s to low-30s mpg combined, with variation by CVT vs manual, trim, and year.
- 2.5-liter flat-4 (Forester, Outback, Legacy): typically in the high-20s to low-30s mpg combined, depending on drivetrain, tires, and gearing.
- Turbocharged 2.4-liter boxer (WRX, Ascent): performance-oriented and fuel-use tends to be higher, often mid-20s mpg combined depending on transmission and driving style.
In short, gasoline-only Subaru models usually sit in the mid-range of efficiency for their class, with variations driven by engine choice, drivetrain, tires, and year. The brand’s standard AWD across many models adds capability but can modestly affect overall fuel economy compared with similar front-drive rivals.
Hybrid and electric options in Subaru's lineup
Subaru has broadened its portfolio to include electrified options, enabling substantially lower or zero gasoline use in daily driving for some buyers.
- Crosstrek Hybrid (gas-electric): a non-plug-in hybrid that combines the 2.0L engine with electric propulsion to boost efficiency, typically delivering fuel economy in the mid-30s mpg combined.
- Solterra (fully electric): Subaru’s all-electric SUV, which uses no gasoline; range varies by trim and conditions, generally in the low- to mid-200s miles per charge.
- Market-specific electrification: in some regions Subaru employs mild-hybrid or e-Boxer technology to improve efficiency on certain models, with the U.S. lineup focusing on gasoline engines and electrified options that become available over time.
These options illustrate Subaru’s approach to reducing gas usage: maintain rugged capability and standard AWD while offering electrified choices to appeal to efficiency-minded buyers.
What to know when evaluating Subaru's fuel economy
When comparing models, the key figure is the EPA fuel-economy rating for the exact configuration (model, engine, transmission, drivetrain, and tires). Subarus with standard AWD typically show slightly lower mpg than front-drive rivals in the same class, but recent tuning and hybrid options help narrow the gap.
Model-class considerations
The smallest Subarus (Impreza, Crosstrek) typically reach the mid-20s to low-30s mpg combined in gasoline form, while midsize SUVs (Forester, Outback) generally land in the upper 20s to low 30s combined. Performance-oriented WRX variants with turbo engines tend to use more fuel, while hybrid and electric options offer meaningful improvements in gas usage.
Tips to maximize fuel economy
To get the best mpg from a Subaru, consider these practices: keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure, perform timely maintenance, drive with steady throttle and avoid aggressive starts, use eco modes when appropriate, minimize roof-loads, and plan trips to reduce cold starts. If opting for a hybrid or EV, consider real-world range and charging access in addition to the official rating.
Summary: Subaru’s approach balances capability with efficiency. Gas-only models generally occupy the mid-range for their class, while hybrids and an electric model provide tangible reductions in gasoline use for buyers who prioritize fuel economy.
Summary
Subaru cars tend to be mid-range in their gas consumption within their class, with electrified options (hybrid and electric) offering notable reductions in gasoline use. Actual fuel economy depends on model, engine choice, drivetrain, tires, and driving style, so always check the EPA ratings for the exact configuration you’re considering.
What is the number one issue with Subarus?
Now. So the head gasket. Issue we've heard it over and over again i've made many many videos here on YouTube about it. And lots of repair videos on fixing Subaru head gasket. Issues.
Is a Subaru good on gas?
Yes, many Subarus are good on gas, with models like the Impreza and Legacy offering up to 36 mpg highway, while the Crosstrek and Forester also provide competitive fuel economy for SUVs. Their fuel efficiency is supported by engineering advancements like the Boxer engine, Lineartronic CVT, and lightweight, aerodynamic designs.
Fuel-efficient models
- Subaru Impreza: Can achieve up to 36 mpg highway and 28 mpg city with its standard engine.
- Subaru Legacy: Offers up to 35 mpg highway and 27 mpg city, making it one of the most efficient sedans in the lineup.
- Subaru Crosstrek: A compact SUV that can get up to 34 mpg highway and 27 mpg city.
- Subaru Forester: Delivers up to 33 mpg highway and 26 mpg city.
- Subaru Outback: Provides up to 32 mpg highway and 26 mpg city, a solid rating for a midsize SUV.
Factors contributing to efficiency
- Boxer engine: The flat-mounted Boxer engine's design creates a lower center of gravity and reduces vibration, which helps with balance and efficiency.
- Lineartronic CVT: The continuously variable transmission is engineered to keep the engine in its most efficient power band.
- Lightweight materials: Using lighter materials in construction helps reduce the vehicle's overall weight, which improves fuel economy.
- Aerodynamic design: Subaru's focus on aerodynamics helps reduce drag, further boosting fuel efficiency.
Why does my Subaru use so much gas?
Issues with the fuel system, such as clogged fuel injectors, a dirty fuel filter, or a malfunctioning fuel pressure regulator, can contribute to high fuel consumption. Have your Subaru's fuel system inspected and serviced regularly to ensure proper operation and fuel efficiency.
How much gas does a Subaru use?
The 2024 Subaru Impreza with 2.0L engine is rated at 8.8 L/100 km in the city and 6.9 on the highway. With the 2.5L engine, it's 9.0 L/100 km in the city and 7.2 on the highway. Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) has not yet estimated annual fuel costs at time of writing.
