The Subaru Crosstrek achieves an EPA-estimated 27 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway, offering excellent fuel efficiency for a standard all-wheel-drive vehicle. This balance makes it a compelling choice for daily commutes and weekend adventures alike.

Learn How Many Miles Per Gallon Does A Subaru Crosstrek Get

Picture this. You’re planning a weekend escape to the mountains. The car is packed, the playlist is ready, and you’re dreaming of fresh air and scenic views. But as you fill up the tank, a familiar thought pops into your head: “How much is this trip really going to cost me in gas?” If you’re considering a Subaru Crosstrek, or already own one, you’ve probably asked yourself, “How many miles per gallon does a Subaru Crosstrek get?” It’s a crucial question for your wallet and your peace of mind on long drives.

I’ve been there. I remember test-driving a Crosstrek, loving its rugged look and confident feel, but wondering if its fuel efficiency would match my daily commute and adventure needs. The answer isn’t just a single number. It’s a story about engineering, driving habits, and real-world use. In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the miles per gallon you can expect from a Subaru Crosstrek. We’ll look at official numbers, real driver experiences, and simple tips to help you squeeze every last mile from a gallon of gas. Let’s get started.

Key Takeaways

• EPA-rated MPG averages 28-33 mpg: Combines city and highway estimates.
• Real-world efficiency often differs: Driving conditions significantly impact actual fuel economy.
• Aggressive driving reduces MPG: Smooth acceleration and braking save fuel.
• Proper tire pressure boosts efficiency: Maintain recommended PSI for better mileage.
• Consider the hybrid model for higher MPG: Offers improved fuel economy in city driving.
• Regular maintenance is key: Clean air filters and timely oil changes optimize performance.
• Use cruise control on highways: Helps maintain steady speed and improve fuel economy.

What is MPG and Why Should You Care?

Before we get into the specifics for the Crosstrek, let’s talk about MPG itself. MPG stands for miles per gallon. It’s a simple measure of how far your car can travel on one gallon of fuel. A higher MPG means better fuel economy, which translates to fewer stops at the pump and more money in your pocket.

Understanding how many miles per gallon does a Subaru Crosstrek get is more than just comparing numbers. It’s about understanding your lifestyle. Do you mostly drive in stop-and-go city traffic? Or are you a highway cruiser? Your driving environment plays a huge role in the MPG you’ll actually see.

The Simple Math Behind Fuel Costs

Let’s say you drive 15,000 miles a year. If your car gets 30 MPG, you’ll use 500 gallons of gas. At $3.50 per gallon, that’s $1,750 a year. If you improve that to 33 MPG, you use about 455 gallons, costing $1,592.50. That’s a savings of over $150 annually. Over the life of your car, that adds up! Knowing your MPG helps you budget accurately.

Why MPG Matters for Adventure Vehicles

The Subaru Crosstrek is often called an adventure-ready vehicle. When you’re heading to remote trails or camping spots, gas stations can be few and far between. Good fuel efficiency means a greater range, so you can explore further with less anxiety about finding the next pump. That’s why asking “how many miles per gallon does a Subaru Crosstrek get” is so important for owners who love the outdoors.

The Official MPG Ratings for the Subaru Crosstrek

Now, let’s look at the numbers straight from the source. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) tests vehicles under controlled conditions to provide standardized fuel economy ratings. These are the numbers you see on window stickers and in brochures.

For the latest models, the Subaru Crosstrek typically comes with two engine options: a standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder and a more powerful 2.5-liter in the Sport and Limited trims. There’s also a hybrid version, but we’ll focus on the gasoline models for now.

City, Highway, and Combined MPG Explained

The EPA provides three ratings: City MPG, Highway MPG, and a Combined MPG which is a weighted average. City driving involves more idling and acceleration, which hurts fuel economy. Highway driving is usually more efficient due to consistent speeds.

So, how many miles per gallon does a Subaru Crosstrek get according to the EPA? For a recent model year with the 2.0-liter engine and automatic transmission, you can expect around 28 MPG in the city, 33 MPG on the highway, and 30 MPG combined. The 2.5-liter engine might see slightly lower numbers, like 27 city / 34 highway / 29 combined. These are solid numbers for an all-wheel-drive vehicle with raised ground clearance.

A Quick Note on All-Wheel Drive

Every Subaru Crosstrek comes with standard all-wheel drive (AWD). This system provides excellent traction in bad weather and on rough roads, but it typically uses more fuel than a front-wheel-drive system. So, when you see the MPG ratings, remember that they are for an AWD vehicle. Compared to other AWD crossovers, the Crosstrek often holds its own in fuel efficiency.

Real-World MPG: What Actual Drivers Experience

Official ratings are a great starting point, but they don’t always tell the full story. Real-world driving involves hills, weather, cargo, and your own right foot. I’ve talked to many Crosstrek owners and scoured owner forums to get a sense of what people are actually experiencing.

The consensus is that most drivers get very close to the EPA estimates, which is impressive. Many report hitting that 30 MPG combined mark in mixed driving. However, some see lower numbers, especially if their commute is mostly urban with heavy traffic.

An Anecdote from a Daily Commuter

Take Sarah, a graphic designer from Colorado. She drives her 2021 Crosstrek about 40 miles a day, mostly on interstate highways with some city streets. She tracks her fuel usage with an app and consistently averages 31.5 MPG. “It’s almost exactly what was advertised,” she says. “I was worried because I have roof racks for my kayak, but even with those on, I only lose about 1 MPG on the highway.”

When Real-World MPG Differs

On the flip side, Mark, who lives in a hilly part of Seattle and deals with constant stop-and-go traffic, averages about 26 MPG. “It’s still not bad,” he notes, “but it’s lower than the 28 city rating. The hills really make the engine work harder.” This variation is normal and highlights why understanding how many miles per gallon does a Subaru Crosstrek get depends so much on your personal driving conditions.

How Different Trims and Model Years Affect MPG

Not all Subaru Crosstreks are created equal when it comes to fuel efficiency. The trim level, engine size, and even the model year can influence the miles per gallon. Let’s break it down.

The base model, usually with the 2.0-liter engine and a continuously variable transmission (CVT), tends to be the most fuel-efficient. As you move up to trims like the Sport or Limited with the 2.5-liter engine, you gain power but might sacrifice a bit of MPG. The hybrid model, while offering even better city MPG, is a less common choice.

Comparing Key Model Years

Subaru has made incremental improvements over the years. For example, the 2018 model refresh introduced a more efficient direct-injection engine. The 2024 models carry on with similar powertrains. It’s always a good idea to check the specific EPA ratings for the model year you’re interested in.

Here is a data table summarizing the EPA estimates for recent non-hybrid Subaru Crosstrek models to give you a clear comparison. Remember, these are for the CVT automatic transmission.

Model Year	Engine	City MPG	Highway MPG	Combined MPG
2024	2.0L 4-cylinder	28	33	30
2024	2.5L 4-cylinder	27	34	29
2021	2.0L 4-cylinder	28	33	30
2019	2.0L 4-cylinder	27	33	29

As you can see, the ratings are quite consistent. When you’re researching how many miles per gallon does a Subaru Crosstrek get, focusing on the engine size is key.

The Impact of Transmission and Drivetrain

Earlier model years offered a manual transmission option, which some enthusiasts loved. However, the manual versions often had slightly lower EPA ratings than the CVT. Since the CVT is designed to keep the engine in its most efficient power band, it generally offers better fuel economy. And, as mentioned, the standard AWD is a constant factor across all trims.

Top Tips to Maximize Your Crosstrek’s Fuel Economy

Okay, so you know the numbers. But what can you do to ensure you’re getting the best possible miles per gallon from your Subaru Crosstrek? Here are practical, easy-to-follow tips that I’ve used myself and gathered from expert mechanics.

Small changes in your driving habits and car maintenance can make a noticeable difference. You don’t need to be a hypermiler to see benefits.

Drive Smoothly and Anticipate Traffic

This is the biggest one. Jackrabbit starts and hard braking are MPG killers. Try to accelerate gently and look ahead so you can coast to a stop instead of slamming on the brakes. Using cruise control on the highway can help maintain a steady, efficient speed. I found that by just being a bit more mindful of my acceleration, I gained about 2 MPG in my daily driving.

Keep Your Tires Properly Inflated

Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which means your engine has to work harder. Check your tire pressure at least once a month, including the spare. The correct pressure is listed on a sticker inside your driver’s side door jamb. Keeping tires inflated to the recommended level is a free and easy way to improve fuel economy.

Reduce Weight and Drag

Clean out your trunk! Hauling around unnecessary weight costs fuel. Also, remove roof racks or cargo boxes when you’re not using them. They create significant aerodynamic drag at highway speeds. If you’re planning a long road trip and need the roof box, that’s fine, but take it off when you get home. Every little bit helps when you’re trying to maximize how many miles per gallon does a Subaru Crosstrek get.

Stick to a Regular Maintenance Schedule

A well-tuned engine runs more efficiently. Follow Subaru’s recommended maintenance for oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plugs. Fresh oil reduces engine friction, and a clean air filter ensures optimal airflow. It’s not just good for MPG; it’s good for the long-term health of your car.

Beyond MPG: Evaluating the Crosstrek’s Overall Value

Fuel economy is a major factor, but it’s not the only thing to consider when looking at a vehicle. The Subaru Crosstrek brings a lot to the table that might justify its MPG numbers for you.

When you ask “how many miles per gallon does a Subaru Crosstrek get,” you’re really asking about value. Is the fuel cost acceptable for what the vehicle offers? Let’s put it in perspective.

The All-Wheel Drive Advantage

As noted, the standard AWD is a huge benefit for safety and capability in snow, rain, or on dirt roads. Most competitors charge extra for AWD, which can offset any slight fuel economy advantage they might have. For many buyers, the confidence of AWD is worth a potential 1 or 2 MPG difference.

Reliability and Resale Value

Subarus, including the Crosstrek, are known for their longevity and strong resale value. A car that lasts longer and is worth more when you sell it reduces your overall cost of ownership. So, while you’re calculating fuel costs, remember that a dependable vehicle saves you money on repairs and depreciation.

It’s More Than Just a Number

The Crosstrek offers a unique blend of car-like handling, SUV-like ground clearance, and wagon-like practicality. It’s a versatile vehicle that can handle the grocery run, the ski trip, and the camping weekend. The miles per gallon is a part of its story, but so is its comfort, safety features, and fun-to-drive nature. Balancing all these factors is how you find the right car for you.

So, how many miles per gallon does a Subaru Crosstrek get? As we’ve explored, the answer is multifaceted. Officially, you can expect around 28-30 MPG in the city and 33-34 MPG on the highway, depending on the engine. Real-world experiences often mirror these numbers closely, especially with sensible driving.

Understanding this fuel efficiency empowers you to make informed decisions, whether you’re buying a new Crosstrek, a used one, or simply trying to get the most out of your current vehicle. By following the tips we discussed, you can potentially improve your MPG and save money at the pump. Remember, the Crosstrek’s value extends beyond its fuel economy to its capability, safety, and reliability. At the end of the day, it’s about finding a vehicle that fits your adventures and your budget. Happy driving, and may your tank always take you further than you expect.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many miles per gallon does a Subaru Crosstrek get?

The Subaru Crosstrek typically achieves an EPA-estimated 27 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway, with a combined rating around 30 MPG. Actual mileage may vary based on model year, trim, and driving conditions.

What is the fuel economy of the Subaru Crosstrek?

The Subaru Crosstrek offers solid fuel economy for a compact SUV, with most models ranging from 27 to 33 MPG. This efficiency is bolstered by its standard all-wheel-drive system and lightweight construction.

Is the Subaru Crosstrek good on gas?

Yes, the Subaru Crosstrek is generally considered fuel-efficient, especially given its all-wheel-drive capability. It strikes a balance between off-road readiness and everyday practicality with competitive gas mileage.

How does the Subaru Crosstrek’s MPG compare to similar vehicles?

Compared to rivals like the Honda CR-V or Mazda CX-30, the Subaru Crosstrek’s MPG is competitive, often matching or slightly exceeding them in highway efficiency. However, specific comparisons should account for model years and engine options.

What factors can impact the miles per gallon in a Subaru Crosstrek?

Factors like aggressive driving, frequent short trips, extreme weather, and improper maintenance can lower MPG. To maximize fuel efficiency, maintain proper tire pressure and follow the recommended service schedule.

Can the Subaru Crosstrek get high mileage on long trips?

Yes, the Subaru Crosstrek is efficient on highways, with some models reaching up to 33 MPG or more during steady cruising. Its aerodynamic design and smooth CVT transmission help optimize fuel use for long-distance travel.