27 MPG combined is an acceptable figure, but no one buys a Subaru BRZ for its fuel efficiency. They buy it for its razor-sharp handling, its inherent balance, and the pure joy of driving a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports car. The 2.0L engine is there to make that experience happen, not to set any records at the gas pump, and it delivers enough efficiency to make the BRZ a guilt-free weekend car, or even a surprisingly practical daily driver for the right enthusiast.

City and highway performance

The 2020 BRZ, equipped with the automatic transmission, shows expected differences between city and highway driving. The EPA rates the car at 24 MPG in the city. This is respectable and usable for someone who lives in an urban environment. The compact dimensions make it easy to park, and the responsive engine provides adequate power for navigating traffic. On the open road, the BRZ shines, achieving 33 MPG on the highway.

Its stable handling and comfortable ride make it a capable long-distance car (as long as you pack light), and the improved fuel economy means fewer stops at the pump on road trips. This duality, reasonable city manners and impressive highway efficiency, makes the BRZ a surprisingly versatile car, despite its sporting intentions.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Subaru BRZ at $2,150. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of 55% city driving and 45% highway driving, using the national average fuel prices for the recommended fuel (premium is recommended, not required). Individual driving habits and local fuel prices can significantly impact this number. Aggressive driving, frequent acceleration, and prolonged idling will all decrease fuel economy and increase the annual cost. Careful driving and adherence to speed limits can potentially improve fuel economy and lower the annual cost below the EPA estimate. Consider this number to be a useful benchmark, but not a guarantee of your individual spending. For all all Subaru fuel economy data is published alongside all makes and models.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy often varies. BRZ owners frequently report figures slightly below the EPA estimates in mixed driving conditions, particularly if they regularly drive aggressively. The car’s enthusiastic character encourages drivers to explore the upper reaches of the rev range, which inevitably impacts fuel consumption. However, some drivers have reported exceeding the EPA highway estimate during long trips, thanks to the car’s relatively low weight and aerodynamic profile. Ultimately, your own fuel economy will depend on your individual driving style and the conditions in which you typically drive.

Don’t expect to consistently achieve 33 MPG if you spend most of your time in stop-and-go traffic, but don’t be surprised if you see higher numbers on long road trips.

How it compares

The BRZ’s fuel economy positions it competitively within the sports car segment. The Mazda MX-5 Miata, another lightweight, rear-wheel-drive roadster, achieves a slightly better 29 MPG combined with its automatic transmission. The Miata sacrifices some practicality with its smaller trunk and more cramped interior. Compare that difference to the Toyota 86, the BRZ’s platform sibling, which shares the same engine and drivetrain and therefore offers nearly identical fuel economy. The slightly different styling and interior trim choices might sway buyers in one direction or the other.

A front-wheel drive Volkswagen GTI is a less direct comparison to the rear-drive BRZ, but its 27 MPG combined rating with the automatic transmission puts it in the same ballpark, while providing added practicality and versatility in its hatchback form. The differences in economy are minor, but the considerations of rear-drive versus front-drive and the overall mission of each car are significant.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The most important tip for maximizing fuel efficiency in the BRZ is to resist the urge to drive it like a race car. While the engine certainly enjoys being revved, gentle acceleration and smooth throttle inputs will significantly improve fuel economy. Short shifting and using higher gears whenever possible will also help.

Tire pressure plays a significant role. Ensure that your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the door jamb. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Regularly checking and maintaining tire pressure can lead to a noticeable improvement, especially during longer drives. This is essential given the lightweight, economy-influenced tire choices that come standard on the BRZ.

Aerodynamic drag increases exponentially with speed. Reducing your speed on the highway can have a big impact on fuel economy. Driving at a steady 65 mph instead of 75 mph can yield noticeable gains. This also enhances safety and reduces stress, making long drives more enjoyable, so remember that while the BRZ is fast, it’s not *that* fast.

Avoid unnecessary idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and idling consumes fuel without moving the car. This simple habit can add up to significant savings over time. Don’t think about warming up the engine on cold days. It will idle fine for less than a minute, maybe to clear snow off the windshield. After that, just drive the car gently.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Cruise control maintains a consistent speed, which minimizes unnecessary acceleration and deceleration. This can improve fuel economy, especially on long, flat stretches of road. Combine this with reduced speed, and the BRZ MPG across all years can be surprising. The relatively low overall weight of the BRZ also helps it here.

In the end, buying a BRZ is a compromise that this buyer is content to make.