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What are the 7 ways that Subaru is improving fuel economy?

Subaru, the Japanese automaker known for its all-wheel-drive vehicles, has been making strides in improving the fuel economy of its lineup. From engine advancements to aerodynamic enhancements, Subaru is committed to delivering more efficient and environmentally-friendly vehicles to its customers.


1. Boxer Engine Design


Subaru's signature Boxer engine, with its horizontally-opposed cylinder layout, is a key contributor to the brand's improved fuel efficiency. This unique engine design reduces the vehicle's center of gravity, enhancing stability and handling, while also reducing internal friction and vibrations. The Boxer engine's compact size and efficient combustion process help optimize fuel consumption.


2. Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)


Subaru has been equipping many of its models with Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs), which provide seamless power delivery and improved fuel economy compared to traditional automatic transmissions. CVTs eliminate the need for fixed gear ratios, allowing the engine to operate at its most efficient rpm range, resulting in better fuel efficiency.


3. Aerodynamic Enhancements


Subaru has been focusing on improving the aerodynamic design of its vehicles to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency. This includes features such as active grille shutters, which close at higher speeds to reduce air resistance, and optimized body shapes that minimize wind turbulence. These aerodynamic enhancements help Subaru vehicles slice through the air more efficiently, resulting in better fuel economy.


4. Lightweight Materials


Subaru has been incorporating more lightweight materials, such as high-strength steel and aluminum, into its vehicle designs. By reducing the overall weight of its cars, Subaru can improve fuel efficiency without sacrificing safety or performance. Lighter vehicles require less energy to accelerate and maintain speed, leading to improved fuel economy.


5. Hybrid and Electric Powertrains


Subaru has recently introduced hybrid and electric powertrain options in some of its models, such as the Crosstrek Hybrid and the all-electric Solterra SUV. These electrified powertrains offer significantly improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions compared to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. As Subaru continues to expand its electrified lineup, it will further contribute to the brand's overall fuel economy improvements.


6. Regenerative Braking


Subaru's hybrid and electric vehicles feature regenerative braking systems, which capture the energy generated during braking and use it to recharge the vehicle's battery. This process helps to reduce the amount of energy lost during deceleration, leading to better overall fuel efficiency.


7. Improved Thermal Management


Subaru has been focusing on optimizing the thermal management of its vehicles, which includes improving the efficiency of the engine cooling system and reducing heat loss. By minimizing thermal inefficiencies, Subaru can extract more energy from the fuel, resulting in better fuel economy.


Through these innovative technologies and design approaches, Subaru is continuously working to improve the fuel efficiency of its vehicles, providing its customers with more environmentally-friendly and cost-effective driving experiences.

What are 10 ways to save fuel?


Ten ways to save fuel include driving smoothly and avoiding aggressive acceleration, maintaining proper tire pressure, and removing unnecessary weight from your vehicle. Other key methods include limiting the use of air conditioning, combining trips, avoiding excessive idling, performing regular vehicle maintenance, and planning ahead for efficient routes. For longer-term savings, consider carpooling, using public transport, or switching to a more fuel-efficient vehicle. 
Driving habits

  • Drive smoothly: Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. Accelerate gently and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. 
  • Avoid aggressive driving: Avoid high speeds, speeding, and other aggressive behaviors, which waste fuel. 
  • Don't idle excessively: Turn off your engine if you will be stopped for more than 10 seconds. 
  • Use cruise control: On highways, use cruise control to maintain a steady speed. 
  • Anticipate traffic: Look ahead and anticipate traffic flow to avoid unnecessary stops and starts. 

Vehicle maintenance
  • Keep tires properly inflated: Correct tire pressure reduces rolling resistance and improves fuel economy. 
  • Perform regular maintenance: Keep your car well-serviced, checking for things like spark plugs, oil, and filters. 
  • Reduce drag: Remove unnecessary racks and equipment from the roof, and keep windows closed at high speeds. 

Vehicle and trip planning
  • Lighten the load: Remove any unnecessary weight from your car. 
  • Combine trips: Plan your errands to complete multiple tasks in a single outing, which reduces total travel time and fuel use. 
  • Plan efficient routes: Choose the most fuel-efficient route, even if it's not the shortest. 

Other strategies
  • Use A/C sparingly: Air conditioning puts a strain on the engine, so use it only when necessary. 
  • Carpool or use public transport: Share rides or use public transportation when possible to reduce individual fuel consumption. 
  • Walk or cycle: For short distances, walking or cycling is the most fuel-efficient option. 
  • Invest in a fuel-efficient vehicle: When buying a new car, consider a model that is more fuel-efficient or consider a hybrid or electric vehicle. 



What are four of 7 ways Subaru is improving fuel economy?


Seven Key Ways Subaru Enhances Fuel Economy

  • Hybrid Electric Drive Systems.
  • Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (PZEV) Technology.
  • Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
  • Subaru BOXER Engine Design.
  • Aerodynamic Enhancements.
  • Efficient Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.
  • Lightweight Materials and Subaru Global Platform.



Why is Subaru's fuel consumption so high?


The reason is because the motor was designed in the 80s so it's ancient technology, and it's a low compression motor so it doesn't burn fuel efficiently at light throttle. It's also a very heavy car at nearly 3500lbs. All this combines to give it poor gas mileage and dated performance numbers.



Do subarus have good fuel economy?


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. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.