How many miles per gallon does a 2016 Subaru Forester 2.5 get?

The 2016 Subaru Forester 2.5i with a 2.5-liter engine and CVT averages about 27 miles per gallon combined, with EPA ratings of 24 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.

Here’s a detailed look at what those numbers mean, how they’re determined, and what factors can influence real-world fuel economy for the Forester’s all-wheel-drive setup.

EPA numbers and what they represent

The following figures reflect the Environmental Protection Agency’s official estimates for a typical 2016 Forester 2.5i equipped with Subaru’s continuously variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive. These numbers are a baseline and can vary with conditions and trim level.

• City: 24 mpg


• Highway: 32 mpg


• Combined: 27 mpg

EPA ratings are derived from standardized driving cycles that simulate urban and highway conditions. Because the Forester uses standard AWD, its numbers are often slightly lower in real-world driving than similar 2WD configurations, but they remain within range of the published estimates.

Understanding the testing and typical real-world results

The EPA tests aim to predict what a typical owner might see in day-to-day driving, but actual mileage depends on how and where you drive, as well as factors like cargo, terrain, and climate control use. Subtle differences in tire size and maintenance can also impact results.

What affects real-world mileage for the 2016 Forester?

Numerous variables influence how many miles per gallon you’ll actually get in a 2016 Forester. Here are the main factors to consider.

• Driving style: Gentle acceleration and steady speeds improve efficiency; aggressive driving lowers it.


• Terrain and elevation: Hilly routes reduce mpg more than flat, highway-only drives.


• Load and roof carriers: Extra weight and aerodynamic drag from roof racks reduce fuel economy.


• Maintenance and conditions: Proper tire inflation, clean filters, and timely maintenance help maximize mpg.


• All-wheel drive: AWD is standard on Forester, which adds weight and drivetrain loss compared to 2WD configurations, affecting mpg modestly.

In daily use, owners commonly observe mileage in the mid-20s to low-30s mpg range depending on driving conditions, with suburban and highway trips generally yielding better results than stop-and-go city driving.

Real-world mileage and driver experience

Numerous owners report real-world fuel economy that aligns with the EPA estimates under typical conditions, with variations based on climate, road quality, and how aggressively the vehicle is driven. Seasonal factors like heater use in winter and air conditioning in summer can also influence mpg somewhat.

For prospective buyers or current owners, adopting moderate driving habits, ensuring proper maintenance, and adhering to recommended tire pressures are practical steps to approach the EPA figures in everyday use.

Summary

For a 2016 Subaru Forester 2.5i with CVT and standard AWD, the official EPA numbers are 24 mpg city, 32 mpg highway, and 27 mpg combined. Real-world mileage typically falls in a similar range, with variations driven by driving style, terrain, cargo, and maintenance. Overall, the Forester offers respectable efficiency for its class and drivetrain configuration.

How many miles per gallon does a 2016 Forester 2.5 get?

The 2016 Subaru Forester 2.5i gets an EPA-estimated 24 MPG city / 32 MPG highway / 27 MPG combined. This applies to various trims, including the 2.5i, Premium, Limited, and Touring models, as they share the same 2.5-liter engine and continuously variable transmission with all-wheel drive. 
You can watch this video to see a review of the 2016 Subaru Forester and its features: 37sEngineering ExplainedYouTube · Feb 21, 2016

• City: 24 MPG
• Highway: 32 MPG
• Combined: 27 MPG 

What year to stay away from a Subaru Forester?

You should generally stay away from Subaru Forester model years known for significant engine issues, such as the 1998–2001, 2003, 2006, 2009, and 2010 models due to head gasket failures and other problems. The 2011–2014 and 2014–2018 models are also problematic, particularly for excessive oil consumption, CVT transmission issues, and suspension problems, according to sources like Panda Hub, CoPilot for Car Shopping, CarBuzz, and MotorBiscuit. 
You can watch this video to learn more about the worst model years for the Subaru Forester: 44sCar ExpertlyYouTube · Apr 14, 2025
Specific model years to avoid

• 1998–2001: These early models are known for frequent head gasket failures, which can be costly to repair. 
• 2003 and 2006: These model years experienced recurring head gasket issues and other problems like electrical malfunctions and cooling system failures. 
• 2009–2010: These years saw engine stalling, head gasket problems, and engine oil pipe ruptures. The 2010 model received particularly low reliability ratings. 
• 2011–2014: The 2.5L engine (FB25) in these models is known for excessive oil consumption, which can lead to engine damage if not addressed. The 2011 model also had poor oil warning light design. 
• 2014: Often cited as one of the worst model years, this model is known for severe oil consumption, CVT transmission problems, and broken coil springs. 
• 2015: Continued issues with engine and transmission troubles were reported, along with airbag sensor malfunctions. 
• 2018: Recall issues related to faulty rear suspension springs and engine valves affected some models. 

Common issues across multiple years

• Head gasket failure: A common issue in many pre-2012 models, especially those with the 2.5L EJ series engine, typically occurring around 60,000 to 100,000 miles. 
• Excessive oil consumption: A major problem in models with the newer FB25 engine from 2011 to 2014, which can cause serious engine damage. 
• Transmission issues: The 2014 model's CVT transmission was prone to problems, and the 2015 model also had reports of transmission troubles. 
• Suspension and wheel bearings: Problems with rear suspension springs and premature wheel bearing wear were reported in some models, including the 2014. 
• Cracking windshields: A widespread issue across multiple model years, including the 2014 and 2017, which even led to a class-action lawsuit. 

What to look for when buying a used Forester

• If considering an older model (1998-2012), check for documented evidence of head gasket replacement, preferably with upgraded multi-layer steel gaskets. 
• For 2011-2014 models, be aware of excessive oil consumption and ensure the owner is diligent about checking oil levels. If possible, check the VIN for any service bulletins or extended warranty coverage related to oil consumption. 
• If looking at a 2014 or newer, get a pre-purchase inspection, with a specific focus on the transmission and suspension. 
• Look for rust, especially in areas with heavy road salt use. 

What years did the Subaru Forester have a bad transmission?

Yes, the Transmissions of Foresters from 2014 - 2018 are known to have problems. Subaru extended the warranty on CVT transmissions to 10 years or 100000 miles.

Is the 2016 Subaru Forester 2.5 i reliable?

Among the 322 owners who provided feedback on the 2016 Subaru Forester for Kelley Blue Book, consumer sentiment is mostly positive, with 75% recommending the vehicle. As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's reliability and value to be its strongest features and styling to be its weakest.