What kind of gas mileage does a Subaru BRAT get?
The Subaru BRAT, a unique compact pickup truck produced from 1978 to 1994, is known for its quirky design and off-road capabilities. But how does it perform when it comes to fuel efficiency? Let's dive into the details of the Subaru BRAT's gas mileage.
Subaru BRAT's Fuel Economy Ratings
According to the available data, the Subaru BRAT typically achieves a fuel economy of around 20-25 miles per gallon (MPG) in combined city and highway driving. This range can vary depending on the specific model year, engine configuration, and driving conditions.
The BRAT's fuel efficiency is considered average for a compact pickup truck of its era. Factors such as its lightweight construction, four-wheel-drive capabilities, and relatively small engine size contribute to its respectable gas mileage performance.
Factors Affecting Subaru BRAT's Fuel Efficiency
Several factors can influence the Subaru BRAT's fuel economy, including:
- Engine size and configuration: The BRAT was available with both four-cylinder and six-cylinder engine options, with the four-cylinder models generally achieving better fuel efficiency.
- Transmission type: Automatic transmission-equipped BRATs tend to have slightly lower fuel economy compared to manual transmission models.
- Driving conditions: Like any vehicle, the BRAT's fuel efficiency can be affected by factors such as driving style, terrain, and weather conditions.
- Vehicle modifications: Aftermarket modifications, such as larger tires or lifted suspensions, can impact the BRAT's fuel economy.
It's important to note that the actual fuel economy experienced by BRAT owners may vary from the published estimates, as real-world driving conditions can differ significantly from the standardized testing procedures used to determine official MPG ratings.
Comparing the Subaru BRAT to Other Compact Pickups
When compared to other compact pickup trucks of its era, the Subaru BRAT's fuel efficiency is generally on par or slightly better than its competitors. For example, the Ford Ranger and Chevrolet S-10 of the same time period typically achieved fuel economy in the range of 18-22 MPG.
However, it's important to note that the BRAT's unique design and off-road capabilities may have influenced its fuel efficiency compared to more traditional compact pickup trucks.
Conclusion
The Subaru BRAT, with its average fuel economy of 20-25 MPG, offers a respectable balance of utility and efficiency for a compact pickup truck of its era. While not the most fuel-efficient option, the BRAT's unique characteristics and off-road capabilities make it a compelling choice for those seeking a versatile and distinctive vehicle.
How many miles to the gallon does a Subaru BRAT get?
(And, while fuel economy is not an attribute normally associated with 4x4's, the EPA rates the BRAT at 26 city mpg and 36 highway.)
Are Subaru BRATs AWD?
Unlike trucks from other manufacturers, all BRATs had four-wheel drive, as they were developed from the existing Leone station wagon.
Which Subaru has the best miles per gallon?
The 2025 Subaru Solterra EV has the best fuel efficiency, measured in MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent), while the 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid leads among traditional hybrid models with a combined 35 MPG. For conventional gas-powered vehicles, the 2025 Subaru Legacy has the highest highway MPG at 35, and the 2025 Subaru Impreza offers strong combined city/highway mileage.
Electric Vehicle (EV)
- Subaru Solterra: With 104 combined MPGe (114 city/94 highway), this is the most fuel-efficient option.
Hybrid
- 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid: This model achieves an estimated 35 MPG combined (35 city/34 highway).
Conventional Gas
- 2025 Subaru Legacy: The base 2.5L engine model gets an estimated 35 MPG on the highway.
- 2025 Subaru Impreza: This model is a strong contender, with an estimated 36 MPG highway on some trims.
- 2025 Subaru Crosstrek: The Crosstrek can achieve over 30 MPG on the highway.
Factors that affect gas mileage
- Engine choice: Turbocharged engines typically get worse gas mileage than their base-engine counterparts.
- Transmission: Models with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) are generally more fuel-efficient than those with manual transmissions.
- Tires and accessories: "Wilderness" models and other upgrades like all-terrain tires or lift kits can negatively impact fuel economy due to increased rolling resistance and compromised aerodynamics.
Can you legally ride in the back of a Subaru BRAT?
And 10 seconds on Google tells you there's no specific law on riding in the truck bed in 21 states, and it's perfectly legal to ride in the back above the age of 18 in over 40 states... and in the other states you can still ride back there with seat belts, or under specific conditions.
