Which Subaru model has the best gas mileage?

The Subaru model with the best gas mileage is the Crosstrek Hybrid, which delivers the highest EPA-rated efficiency in the current lineup. In practice, you can expect mid-30s mpg combined from this plug-in hybrid, with the exact numbers varying by year and driving conditions.

Subaru’s lineup offers a mix of hybrids and gasoline models. This article examines the latest available data, how mileage is measured, and what drivers should consider when comparing Subaru models for fuel economy. We’ll highlight which models typically use less fuel and why, along with tips to maximize efficiency in everyday driving.

How mileage is measured and what affects it

Understanding fuel economy starts with the EPA ratings, which combine city and highway estimates to yield a gallons-per-mile figure known as miles per gallon (mpg). Hybrid models like the Crosstrek Hybrid can show better mpg in city driving thanks to electric assist, while larger or higher-trift models tend to post lower overall numbers. Real-world results vary with driving style, terrain, climate, cargo, tire pressure, and maintenance. Always compare EPA combined numbers for an apples-to-apples look, and check consumer reports or owner forums for real-world observations.

Current leaders in fuel economy

Below is a snapshot of the most fuel-efficient Subaru options you’ll find in the market today. The list focuses on typical EPA estimates and common configurations; exact figures can shift slightly year to year and by trim.

• Crosstrek Hybrid — The standout for gas mileage in Subaru’s lineup, with EPA estimates in the mid-30s mpg combined. Real-world results often align with this range, varying with conditions and driving style.


• Crosstrek (non-hybrid) — A solid performer in the compact crossover segment, generally around the low 30s mpg combined depending on year and drivetrain configuration.


• Impreza (gasoline, CVT) — Among the more efficient non-hybrid options, typically in the 30–33 mpg combined range depending on year and spec.


• Forester (gasoline, non-hybrid) — Practical and roomy, usually around 28–30 mpg combined, depending on engine and year.


• Outback (gasoline, non-hybrid) — A popular wagon/SUV, often in the upper 20s to around 30 mpg combined, depending on powertrain and recent updates.

Conclusion: The Crosstrek Hybrid leads Subaru’s fuel-economy chart, while other models hover in the high 20s to low 30s mpg range depending on size, engine, and year.

Maximizing fuel economy in practice

Even the most efficient Subaru can fall short of its EPA rating if driven aggressively or loaded with heavy cargo. Below are common tactics that help drivers squeeze more mpg out of their Subaru.

• Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure and get regular alignment checks.


• Drive at steady speeds; use cruise control on highways when appropriate.


• Follow routine maintenance: timely oil changes, clean air filters, and spark plug upkeep.


• Lighten the load and remove roof racks or cargo carriers when not in use.


• Avoid excessive idling and short trips that prevent the engine from reaching optimal temperature.

Concluding paragraph: Real-world mileage benefits from consistent maintenance and mindful driving. The difference between EPA estimates and everyday fuel economy can be meaningful, especially in city driving or frequent stop-and-go conditions.

Additional considerations

As technology evolves, Subaru may update powertrains or introduce additional hybrid variants. Always check the latest EPA ratings for the exact model year you’re considering, and read current owner reports to understand practical mileage variations in your area.

Summary

As of 2025, the Crosstrek Hybrid stands as Subaru’s most fuel-efficient model, offering mid-30s mpg combined in many driving scenarios. Non-hybrid Crosstrek, Impreza, Forester, and Outback deliver respectable efficiency in the high-20s to low-30s mpg range, with numbers shifting slightly by year and trim. For buyers prioritizing gas mileage, the Crosstrek Hybrid is the clear front-runner, while other Subaru models provide balanced performance with practical utility. Real-world results will depend on driving conditions, maintenance, and load.

Which car gets 70 mpg?

Several hybrid and diesel cars can achieve around 70 mpg, though it's often an official rating and can vary in real-world driving. Examples include the Vauxhall Corsa with a 1.5-litre turbo diesel engine, which can get up to 70.6 mpg, and various hybrid models, including some versions of the Hyundai Elantra Hybrid and Toyota Prius, which can reach this level under ideal conditions.
 
Examples of cars with around 70 mpg

• Vauxhall Corsa (1.5-litre turbo diesel): Can achieve up to 70.6 mpg, making it one of the most fuel-efficient diesel cars available. 
• Hyundai Elantra Hybrid: Early models were advertised with a claimed 70 mpg combined fuel economy. 
• Toyota Prius: Various models can get close to 70 mpg, especially older non-plug-in hybrids which are cheaper on the used market. Plug-in hybrid versions can also run on electric power for short distances. 
• Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid: Can achieve around 59 mpg combined. 

Important considerations

• Official vs. real-world MPG: The 70 mpg figure is often an official rating that is achieved under specific testing conditions, and your real-world mileage may be lower or higher depending on your driving habits, the vehicle's condition, and road conditions. 
• Hybrid vs. diesel: Both hybrid and diesel cars can achieve high MPG, but hybrids have the added benefit of electric-only driving for short distances, while some diesels can have higher upfront costs but offer impressive fuel economy on long-distance journeys. 
• Age and model: Some of the models with the highest MPG ratings are older, so be sure to research specific model years when shopping. 
• Type of driving: While hybrids and diesels can be very efficient, their fuel economy can vary significantly depending on whether you are driving in the city or on the highway. 

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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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. 

Which Subarus get the best gas mileage?

Subaru's Best Fuel Efficient Cars
The 2023 Subaru Impreza compact sedan and Subaru Legacy midsize sedan both offer excellent fuel economy. The 2.0-liter SUBARU BOXER® 4 cylinder engine on the Impreza Base, Premium, and Limited models gives drivers an up to 28 city/36 hwy/32 combined EPA-estimated mpg.