What is the gas mileage on a 2006 Subaru Legacy?
In short, the 2006 Subaru Legacy’s fuel economy depends on the engine and transmission. The non-turbo 2.5i models typically achieve around the mid-20s mpg combined, while the turbocharged 2.5GT models run a bit lower, in the low-20s mpg combined. Actual mileage varies with driving style, maintenance, and whether the car is a sedan or wagon.
This article provides a clear overview of the expected figures and practical factors that influence mpg for this model year, offering guidance for current owners and prospective buyers. The figures reflect EPA estimates for 2006 configurations and are intended as benchmarks rather than guarantees.
EPA estimates by engine and transmission
The following figures reflect typical EPA-rated combined fuel economy for the 2006 Legacy by configuration. They serve as a baseline for comparison and can differ in real-world driving.
- 2.5i (2.5-liter H4) with manual transmission — approximately 26 mpg combined.
- 2.5i with automatic transmission — approximately 25 mpg combined.
- 2.5GT turbo with manual transmission — approximately 22 mpg combined.
- 2.5GT turbo with automatic transmission — approximately 21 mpg combined.
Note: All-wheel drive, wagon vs sedan, and other options can slightly alter these figures. Real-world mileage can be higher or lower depending on conditions like stop-and-go traffic, climate, and vehicle condition.
Real-world factors that affect mileage
In practice, several factors influence the miles per gallon you’ll see from a 2006 Legacy. The following common issues can push mpg higher or lower:
- Engine and transmission condition (staying on maintenance schedules helps preserve efficiency).
- Proper tire inflation and alignment.
- Driving style (quick acceleration and aggressive braking reduce mpg).
- All-wheel-drive operation (AWD can slightly reduce mpg in city driving).
- Environmental conditions (cold weather and high-speed highway driving can lower mpg).
To maximize efficiency, keep up with maintenance, maintain proper tire pressure, and adopt smoother driving habits. Simple steps can help you approach the higher end of the published ranges.
Summary
The 2006 Subaru Legacy offers a non-turbo 2.5i that generally delivers mid-20s mpg combined, and turbocharged 2.5GT models in the low-20s. Transmission type, body style, and driving conditions affect the final mileage, but with proper care you can expect values close to the ranges listed above.
