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What is the most fuel-efficient Subaru model?

The most fuel-efficient Subaru model is the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid, which achieves an impressive EPA-estimated 90 MPGe in electric-only mode and 35 MPG combined. This compact crossover SUV combines a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack, providing a balance of efficiency, capability, and versatility.


Subaru's Commitment to Fuel Efficiency


Subaru has long been known for its commitment to producing vehicles with excellent fuel efficiency, and the Crosstrek Hybrid is the brand's latest and most advanced offering in this regard. The company has been steadily improving the fuel economy of its lineup, with models like the Impreza, Outback, and Ascent also achieving impressive EPA ratings.


Subaru's focus on fuel efficiency is driven by its desire to reduce environmental impact and provide customers with cost-effective, practical vehicles. The Crosstrek Hybrid, in particular, represents the brand's efforts to embrace hybrid technology and offer a more eco-friendly option within its popular crossover lineup.


The Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid: A Fuel-Efficient Crossover


The Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid combines a 2.0-liter four-cylinder Boxer engine with a high-capacity lithium-ion battery and a permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor. This powertrain allows the Crosstrek Hybrid to operate in all-electric mode for short distances, providing a quiet and emission-free driving experience. When the battery is depleted, the vehicle seamlessly transitions to a hybrid mode, utilizing both the gasoline engine and electric motor to optimize fuel efficiency.


In addition to its impressive fuel economy, the Crosstrek Hybrid also maintains the off-road capabilities and versatility that Subaru is known for. It features the brand's renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, providing confident handling and traction in a variety of driving conditions.


Key Features of the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid



  • EPA-estimated 90 MPGe in electric-only mode and 35 MPG combined, making it the most fuel-efficient Subaru model

  • Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive for enhanced traction and capability

  • Hybrid powertrain with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor for a balance of efficiency and performance

  • Compact crossover design with ample cargo space and versatility

  • Advanced safety features including Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology


The Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid represents the brand's commitment to delivering fuel-efficient and capable vehicles that meet the needs of modern drivers. Its combination of impressive fuel economy, all-wheel drive capability, and practical design make it a standout choice in the compact crossover segment.

Which AWD gets the best gas mileage?


The most fuel-efficient AWD vehicles are generally hybrids and plug-in hybrids, with the 2026 Toyota Prius AWD, 2026 Toyota Camry Hybrid AWD, and 2026 Toyota Corolla Hybrid AWD leading the pack with combined fuel economy up to 545454 mpg, 505050 mpg, and 484848 mpg respectively. Other top contenders include the 2025 Kia Sportage Hybrid AWD, 2025 Lexus UX 300h AWD, and 2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Blue AWD. 
Top AWD vehicles by fuel efficiency

Vehicle Fuel Type Combined MPG (approximate)
2026 Toyota Prius AWD Hybrid 54 mpg
2026 Toyota Camry Hybrid AWD Hybrid 50 mpg
2026 Toyota Corolla Hybrid AWD Hybrid 48 mpg
2025 Kia Sportage Hybrid AWD Hybrid 43 mpg
2025 Lexus UX 300h AWD Hybrid 43 mpg
2025 Toyota Crown Hybrid 41 mpg
2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Blue AWD Hybrid Up to 37 mpg
2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid AWD Hybrid 38 mpg
2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid AWD Hybrid 37 mpg
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Other fuel-efficient options
  • 2025 Mazda CX-5 AWD: Offers around 30 mpg highway for its naturally aspirated model. 
  • 2025 Subaru Forester: Achieves up to 33 mpg with its AWD system. 
  • 2025 Volvo S60 Plug-In Hybrid: A plug-in hybrid option that delivers strong fuel efficiency. 



What year to stay away from a Subaru Outback?


You should be wary of Subaru Outback years such as 2013–2014, 2017–2018, and 2020 due to common problems like excessive oil consumption, transmission issues, and electrical faults. Additionally, the 2010–2011 models may have transmission, engine, and brake line problems. Older generations, like 2005–2009, are known for head gasket issues and oil leaks.
 
2010–2014

  • Excessive oil consumption: The 2013 and 2014 models are frequently cited for this issue, which was due to faulty piston rings and can lead to engine failure. 
  • Transmission issues: Both the 2010 and 2012 models are reported to have transmission problems, including rough shifting and failure. The 2010 is also known for torque converter issues. 
  • Electrical problems: Some models in this range have reported electrical faults. 
  • Headlight issues: 2011 models, in particular, had problems with headlights that burned out or melted. 
  • Brake line issues: The 2010 model had issues with faulty brake lines. 

2017–2020 
  • Electrical issues: These models were plagued with electrical system problems, from the 2017 and 2020 models. 
  • Weak windshields: The 2017 and 2020 models are notorious for easily cracked windshields. 
  • Transmission problems: Some owners reported issues with the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) in the 2017 and 2020 models. 
  • Fuel range display malfunction: Some 2018 models had issues with the fuel pump and the fuel range display. 

Older generations
  • 2005–2009: These models are known for costly head gasket failures, engine leaks, and catalytic converter failures. 
  • 1994–1999: This generation had issues with cracked cylinder heads and premature engine failure. 
  • 2000–2001: This period is when Subaru was transitioning ownership, leading to transmission issues in these models. 

Modern models (2015+)
  • While later models generally saw improvements, some issues persist. The 2023 Outback had problems with the infotainment system, and the 12V battery was prone to draining. 



Does the Subaru Forester or Outback get better gas mileage?


The Subaru Forester has slightly better fuel economy than the Outback in their base, non-turbocharged configurations. The Forester gets an estimated 26 MPG city / 33 MPG highway, while the Outback gets 26 MPG city / 32 MPG highway. However, the Outback offers an available turbocharged engine that results in lower fuel economy, and its larger fuel tank gives it a longer range between fill-ups. 
You can watch this video for a comparison of the fuel economy between the Outback and Forester: 49sCarLandTVYouTube · Apr 4, 2025

Feature Subaru Forester (Base Engine) Subaru Outback (Base Engine)
City MPG 26 MPG 26 MPG
Highway MPG 33 MPG 32 MPG
Combined MPG 29 MPG 28 MPG
Fuel Tank Capacity 16.6 gallons 18.5 gallons
Available Turbo Engine No Yes (results in lower MPG)
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Which Subaru gets the best gas mileage?


The Subaru Impreza and Legacy get the best gas mileage, with the Impreza reaching up to 36 MPG highway and the Legacy reaching up to 35 MPG highway. The Forester Hybrid is the most efficient for city driving, with up to 35 MPG city, but the Impreza and Legacy offer the best highway efficiency in their gasoline-only versions. 

  • Subaru Impreza: Up to 28 MPG city / 36 MPG highway. 
  • Subaru Legacy: Up to 27 MPG city / 35 MPG highway. 
  • Subaru Crosstrek: Up to 27 MPG city / 34 MPG highway. 
  • Subaru Forester (Gas): Up to 26 MPG city / 33 MPG highway. 
  • Subaru Outback (Base): Up to 26 MPG city / 32 MPG highway. 
  • Subaru Forester (Hybrid): Up to 35 MPG city / 34 MPG highway. 


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.