How are Subaru Imprezas on gas?
The short answer is that modern Imprezas with the standard all‑wheel drive and a 2.0‑liter engine typically post about 28 mpg in the city, 38 mpg on the highway, and around 32 mpg combined in EPA estimates. Manual versions, when offered, usually show slightly lower city efficiency but comparable highway economy, yielding a combined figure in the low to mid 30s.
What influences Impreza fuel economy
Fuel economy for the Impreza is shaped by a mix of engineering choices, driving conditions, and maintenance. Key factors include the standard all‑wheel drive system, the weight of the car, aerodynamic drag, tire choice and inflation, and the transmission type. The 2.0‑liter flat‑four engine is designed for efficiency, but AWD adds weight and drivetrain losses that can nudge miles per gallon downward versus front‑wheel‑drive rivals. Transmission choice—CVT versus a manual option in some years—also plays a significant role in EPA ratings and real‑world results.
Key factors shaping fuel economy
Below are the main levers that influence how far a Subaru Impreza will go on a gallon of gas. The following list helps explain why two identical Imprezas can show different fuel economy in practice.
- Drivetrain: Standard all‑wheel drive adds weight and drivetrain losses versus front‑wheel drive.
- Transmission: Continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) tend to deliver the best highway efficiency; manual transmissions (when available) can have different city/highway profiles.
- Vehicle mass and aerodynamics: Body design, roof rack usage, and cargo affect drag and efficiency.
- Tire type and inflation: Low rolling resistance tires and properly inflated tires improve MPG; underinflation hurts efficiency.
- Maintenance and style of driving: Regular maintenance (air filters, spark plugs, oil changes) and smoother driving habits raise real‑world miles per gallon.
In real world conditions, the numbers you see on the sticker reflect ideal conditions. Daily driving—especially city traffic, short trips, and heavy acceleration—will usually yield lower results than highway cruising at steady speeds.
Model‑by‑model snapshot (recent generations)
Here's a concise look at typical efficiency ranges for the most common powertrain configuration in current and recent Imprezas. The numbers below reflect EPA estimates for the United States market where available and are subject to year‑to‑year variation.
- 2017–2024 Subaru Impreza (2.0‑liter engine, CVT): ~28 mpg city / ~38 mpg highway / ~32 mpg combined. This setup is the standard configuration on most trims and is the most representative for recent years.
- Impreza with a 5‑speed manual (where offered in certain years/trims): generally lower city MPG due to urban driving habits but similar highway efficiency, with overall combined in the low to mid‑30s depending on year and route.
- Older generations (pre‑2017): mpg varied more by generation, but many 2.0‑liter Imprezas with CVT or earlier manual options typically landed in the low‑to‑mid 30s combined, with highway numbers commonly in the upper 30s for efficient highway cruising.
Concluding note: These figures provide a practical sense of what to expect, but exact results depend on model year, trim, transmission, tires, and how you drive. Always check the specific EPA rating for the exact configuration you’re considering.
Real‑world expectations and driving reality
Owners often report real‑world fuel economy that is close to or slightly below EPA estimates, particularly in urban environments with frequent stopping, short trips, or heavy-use scenarios like winter driving with added weight or colder engines. Conversely, highway cruising at steady speeds with proper tire pressure can bring you very close to the posted numbers. Subaru’s standard AWD system is a key selling point for traction and safety, and it also factors into the gas‑mileage equation compared with two‑wheel‑drive compact cars.
Tips to maximize fuel economy
To get the best possible mileage from a Subaru Impreza, consider these practical steps that align with typical driving patterns and maintenance needs.
- Keep tires inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure; underinflation reduces efficiency and increases wear.
- Plan smoother driving: gradual acceleration, steady speeds, and use of cruise control on highways when appropriate.
- Follow a regular maintenance schedule: replace air filters, spark plugs, and oil on time; a well‑tuned engine runs more efficiently.
- Reduce aero drag: remove roof racks or cargo boxes when not in use; lighter loads improve mpg.
- Use recommended fuel grade and avoid frequent short trips that keep the engine from reaching optimal operating temperature.
With the Impreza’s standard AWD, there is a trade‑off between traction and fuel economy. Mindful driving and a few maintenance habits can help you stay as close as possible to EPA estimates while enjoying the vehicle’s all‑weather capability.
Summary
Subaru Imprezas offer solid, competitive fuel economy for an all‑wheel‑drive compact. In recent years, a typical CVT‑equipped Impreza targets around 32 mpg combined (about 28 city and 38 highway), with manual transmissions offering modestly different profiles. Real‑world MPG varies with driving conditions, tires, and maintenance. For best results, maintain proper tire pressure, drive smoothly, and keep up with routine service. The Impreza’s AWD capability comes with a fuel‑economy trade‑off, but it remains a practical choice for year‑round performance and confidence on the road.
Are Subaru cars 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.
How far can a Subaru Impreza go on a full tank?
If you get an Impreza with the base level 2-liter flat-four, you can expect an EPA-estimated full-tank range of 498 miles. The top-tier RS trim has a bigger and stronger 2.5L flat-four under its hood.
Is the Subaru Impreza good on gas?
Fuel efficiency: The Impreza gets good gas mileage, with an estimated 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. 4. Reliability: Subaru is known for its reliability. It has a reputation for being a dependable car that requires minimal maintenance. 5.
What are the negatives of Subaru Impreza?
Common problems with the Subaru Impreza include engine issues, sudden and abrupt acceleration, transmission failure, and air bag problems. The 2008 and 2012 models of the Subaru Impreza should be avoided, but the rest have generally good reliability.
