How fuel efficient is a Subaru Forester?
The Subaru Forester has long been a favorite among SUV enthusiasts for its reliability, practicality, and all-weather capability. But how does it fare when it comes to fuel efficiency? In this article, we’ll explore the fuel economy of the Subaru Forester, breaking down its performance in city and highway driving, and what factors might influence its efficiency.
Fuel Efficiency Ratings for the Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester is known for offering competitive fuel efficiency in the compact SUV category. According to the latest EPA estimates for the 2025 model year, the Subaru Forester achieves:
- City Driving: Approximately 26 miles per gallon (mpg).
- Highway Driving: Around 33 mpg.
- Combined Average: About 29 mpg.
These figures make the Forester a solid choice for drivers who want the versatility of an SUV without sacrificing too much at the pump. Keep in mind that these ratings can vary slightly depending on the trim level and whether the vehicle is equipped with additional features that may impact weight or aerodynamics.
What Contributes to the Subaru Forester's Fuel Efficiency?
The Subaru Forester’s fuel efficiency is the result of several key design and engineering features:
- Efficient Engine Design: The Forester is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder BOXER engine, which is designed to balance power and efficiency.
- Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT): The CVT optimizes gear ratios to ensure the engine operates at its most efficient level during different driving conditions.
- Lightweight Construction: Subaru has worked to reduce the overall weight of the Forester without compromising its durability or safety.
- Aerodynamic Design: The Forester’s shape is engineered to reduce drag, improving fuel economy, especially at highway speeds.
Factors That Can Affect Real-World Fuel Efficiency
While the EPA ratings provide a good baseline, real-world fuel efficiency can vary based on several factors:
- Driving Habits: Aggressive acceleration, frequent braking, and high-speed driving can reduce fuel efficiency.
- Terrain: Driving in hilly or mountainous areas typically consumes more fuel than flat terrain.
- Weather Conditions: Extreme cold or heat can impact fuel economy, as the engine and climate control systems work harder.
- Vehicle Load: Carrying heavy cargo or towing can significantly decrease fuel efficiency.
Is the Subaru Forester Right for You?
If you’re looking for a compact SUV that offers a balance of fuel efficiency, practicality, and all-wheel-drive capability, the Subaru Forester is an excellent choice. Its fuel economy ratings are competitive for its class, and its thoughtful engineering ensures that you get the most out of every gallon of gas. However, as with any vehicle, your actual mileage may vary based on your driving habits and conditions.
At Kevin’s Autos, we’re here to help you maintain your Subaru Forester or any other vehicle you drive. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and engine tune-ups, can help ensure your car runs as efficiently as possible. Contact us today to schedule your next service appointment!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the disadvantages of a Subaru?
There are ample Subaru Legacy pros and cons to consider. The car comes with the best safety technology, standard all-wheel drive, and tons of room in the front and back. However, it also lacks a manual transmission, a seriously underpowered entry engine option, and a troublesome driving attitude.
How long do Subaru Forester engines last?
200,000 miles
How long do Subaru Forester engines last? With the right preventive maintenance services and care, Subaru Forester engines can last a long time, some reaching 200,000 miles or even more.
Are Subaru Foresters expensive to run?
The Forester lags behind in terms of running costs too. It should be able to manage around 34.7mpg, which is way below the Kuga 1.5-litre Ecoboost (which will officially manage up to 44.1mpg) and the Kodiaq SE 1.5 TSI e-Tec (up to 47mpg). Company car users might want to look elsewhere too.
Does a Subaru Forester consume a lot of fuel?
Subaru Forester : Basic Specifications
| Maximum Retail Price ($) | Maximum power | Fuel Consumption |
|---|---|---|
| 28,029 | 137 - 280ps | 13 - 16km/L |
Is the Forester or Outback better on gas?
2025 Subaru Forester Multimedia Touchscreens
Both vehicles have similar gas mileage, but the Forester has a slight edge over the Outback, with 33 MPG highway and 26 MPG city on all trims except the rugged Forester Wilderness.
Is Subaru Forester a long lasting car?
With the proper care and maintenance, Foresters can usually last on average 200,000 to 250,000 miles which can be about 13 to 17 years based on a driving average of 15,000 miles per year. While the Forester's mechanics play a large role in its longevity, so does the quality of its body.
How can I make my Subaru Forester more fuel efficient?
Tips on Improving Fuel Efficiency
- Accelerate gently.
- Maintain steady speeds.
- Plan your routes.
- Check tire pressure regularly.
- Using the manufacturer-recommended grade of motor oil improves engine efficiency and offers better ways to improve gas mileage.
- Follow the recommended service schedule for your Subaru.
Why are Subaru Foresters not selling?
Here is the reason why. Forester buyers are older than all car buyers' median age. The average age of a Forester buyer today is 62 versus 60 for the auto industry. The Crosstrek appeals to a younger demographic; however, many older buyers are purchasing the Crosstrek.
Is the Subaru Forester fuel efficient?
Highway: 28 MPG* City: 25 MPG*
What is the weakness of a Subaru Forester?
Excessive oil consumption, unexpected acceleration, engine stalling while driving, the check engine light staying on, engine reluctance when accelerating, and the engine catching fire or malfunctioning are among the top engine issues expressed by 2015 Forester owners.
