19 MPG combined. No one buys a 2020 Subaru WRX expecting Prius-level fuel efficiency. They buy it for the turbocharged punch, the all-wheel-drive grip, and the joy of a car that begs to be driven hard. The fuel economy is simply the price of admission.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2020 WRX with the 2.5L engine and 6-speed manual transmission are 16 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the realities of a performance-oriented engine and a drivetrain designed for responsiveness rather than pure efficiency. The relatively low city MPG is a direct consequence of the turbocharger constantly spooling in stop-and-go traffic, demanding fuel to deliver that signature WRX boost. The highway number is more respectable, but still lower than many modern vehicles due to the car’s focus on performance and the inherent inefficiencies of a short-ratio gearbox designed for acceleration rather than long-legged cruising. If you spend most of your time battling urban gridlock, prepare for frequent trips to the gas station.

Out on the open road, the WRX can stretch its fuel a bit further, but the temptation to dip into the boost will always be present, and will always impact MPG.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Subaru WRX at $3,050. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a useful benchmark for comparison, but your actual fuel costs could vary significantly depending on your driving habits, the price of gasoline in your area, and the type of fuel you use. Remember that premium fuel is recommended for optimal performance, and straying from that recommendation can negatively impact both performance and fuel economy.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy for the 2020 WRX often varies significantly based on driving style. Someone who enjoys using the engine’s full potential, particularly its potent mid-range torque, will likely see numbers below the EPA estimates. Conversely, a driver who adopts a more conservative approach, short-shifting and avoiding aggressive acceleration, might see slightly better results.

It’s important to remember that this car is designed to be engaging, and driving it with extreme fuel economy in mind detracts from the intended experience. Expect to see numbers closer to what an owner is actually reporting at WRX MPG across all years.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2020 WRX’s fuel economy isn’t exactly a standout. A 2020 Honda Civic Si, another sporty compact with a manual transmission, achieves an EPA-estimated 26 MPG combined. That’s a significant difference that translates into real savings at the pump. Even the Volkswagen GTI, another benchmark in the hot hatch segment, manages around 27 MPG combined with its manual transmission.

Looking at other all-wheel-drive performance vehicles, the Subaru’s figures are comparable to vehicles such as the 2020 Golf R, at 23 MPG combined, although the WRX is undeniably less expensive to purchase. The relatively poor fuel economy is a point to consider against the benefits of all-wheel drive in inclement weather, and the turbocharged engine.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

While the 2020 WRX prioritizes performance, there are still steps you can take to improve its fuel economy. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. Smooth, consistent driving is the key. Stomping on the accelerator dumps fuel into the engine that turns directly into wasted expenditure.

Pay attention to tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level, which is typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb.

Minimize idling time. Letting the engine idle for extended periods consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. However, avoid excessive idling, as it’s better to let the car run at a comfortable pace.

Use cruise control on the highway to maintain a steady speed and minimize fluctuations in fuel consumption. This can be especially effective on long, flat stretches of road. Also, consider limiting speeds to 65-70 mph, especially across longer trips where fuel consumption can add up.

Finally, keep your vehicle properly maintained. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and tune-ups can help ensure that your engine is running efficiently. Consider also the other Subaru models, and assess all Subaru fuel economy data before your purchase.