How many miles per gallon does a Subaru Outback Onyx get?
The Outback Onyx Edition typically achieves about 29 miles per gallon combined (roughly 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway) when equipped with the standard 2.5-liter flat-four engine and all-wheel drive with a CVT. Real-world results vary by year, wheel/tire size, and driving conditions.
As a trim that shares its powertrain with other non-turbo Outbacks, the Onyx's mpg reflects Subaru's balance between capability and efficiency. This article breaks down the official ratings, year-to-year differences, and strategies to maximize fuel economy.
Powertrain and MPG: What to expect
Non-turbo 2.5L engine (typical Onyx configuration)
Before listing the mpg figures, note that the Onyx Edition usually uses the non-turbo 2.5L engine with AWD and a CVT. The commonly cited EPA estimates are:
- City: about 26 mpg
- Highway: about 33 mpg
- Combined: about 29 mpg
Conclusion: For most Onyx models in daily driving, expect around 29 mpg combined, with highway trips delivering higher numbers and city driving closer to 26 mpg.
Turbo 2.4L engine (XT) and why it differs
Some Outback trims labeled XT feature a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine. The mpg figures for these turbo models are typically:
- City: around 23 mpg
- Highway: around 30 mpg
- Combined: around 26 mpg
Conclusion: If you were considering an Onyx with the turbo XT engine, be aware that city driving will be significantly less efficient than the non-turbo Onyx, while highway mileage remains solid for a turbocharged AWD crossover.
Model-year differences and real-world factors
Fuel economy can shift slightly across model years due to packaging tweaks, tire choices, and EPA testing updates. Always check the exact sticker for your year and configuration.
- Most recent years (with the 2.5L engine) maintain EPA estimates in the 26/33/29 range.
- Earlier Outbacks and some packages may show marginally different numbers, but the overall range is similar.
- Onyx Edition with 2.4L turbo (XT) differs significantly in mpg versus the 2.5L edition.
Conclusion: For precise numbers, consult the EPA ratings for your exact model year and trim or the window sticker at purchase.
Tips to maximize mpg
Beyond the official numbers, there are practical steps to improve fuel economy:
- Maintain proper tire pressure and alignment to reduce rolling resistance and drag.
- Drive smoothly: avoid rapid acceleration and heavy braking; use cruise control on highways.
- Schedule regular maintenance: air filters, spark plugs, and engine oil as per Subaru's recommendations.
- Remove unnecessary weight and reduce roof load when not needed; roof racks increase drag and cut mpg.
- Use the air conditioning judiciously; in mild conditions, open windows at low speeds, but consider A/C at higher speeds for efficiency depending on wind drag.
Conclusion: Small changes in driving habits and maintenance can bring actual mpg closer to the EPA estimates over time.
Summary
The Subaru Outback Onyx Edition typically posts around 29 mpg combined with the standard 2.5L engine and AWD; turbocharged XT variants yield lower city mpg and similar or slightly higher highway mpg. For precise figures, check the EPA rating for your specific year and trim, and apply best-practice fuel-saving strategies to maximize efficiency.
