The 2021 Subaru Legacy AWD 2.5L gets 30 MPG combined, a pragmatic figure reflecting Subaru’s commitment to all-weather capability without using too much gas. This Legacy is not a hybrid. It’s a comfortable, reliable sedan built for those who prioritize surefootedness and practicality over maximum fuel efficiency.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2021 Subaru Legacy AWD 2.5L are 27 MPG in the city and 35 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect the realities of the car’s engine and drivetrain. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, while adequate for daily driving, needs to work a bit harder in stop-and-go city traffic, resulting in the slightly lower city MPG. The All-Wheel Drive system, standard on all Legacys, also contributes to city fuel consumption. On the open road, the Legacy settles into a more efficient cruise, using its continuously variable transmission (CVT) and aerodynamic profile to achieve that 35 MPG figure. It’s a smooth, unfussed experience, ideal for long commutes and road trips.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Subaru Legacy AWD 2.5L is $1,450. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and driving conditions. However, this number provides a useful benchmark for comparing the Legacy’s fuel costs to those of other vehicles in its class. You can see all Subaru fuel economy data on this site.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides valuable estimates, but real-world fuel economy can differ. Expect some variation based on your driving style. Aggressive acceleration and heavy braking will negatively impact your MPG. Also, consistently driving in hilly terrain or carrying heavy loads will reduce fuel efficiency. Most owners report figures relatively close to the EPA estimates, particularly on longer trips where the smooth-shifting CVT and horizontally opposed engine perform well.

How it compares

In the fiercely competitive mid-size sedan segment, the Legacy’s fuel economy is in the middle. A Toyota Camry LE achieves 28 MPG city and 39 MPG highway, making it more efficient. Similarly, the Honda Accord LX boasts 30 MPG city and 38 MPG highway. The Nissan Altima S manages 28 MPG city and 39 MPG highway as well. However, none of these competitors offer standard All-Wheel Drive. The Mazda 3 2.5 S with AWD attains 25 MPG city and 33 MPG highway, a noticeable dip compared to the Legacy. The Legacy buyer is trading a few MPG for the added security and traction of Subaru’s AWD system, a tradeoff that is worthwhile for those who regularly face snow, ice, or challenging road conditions. You can view LEGACY MPG across all years on this site.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key to maximizing fuel economy in the Legacy. The CVT responds well to a light foot on the accelerator, allowing the engine to operate in its most efficient range. Avoid hard acceleration, especially from a standstill, as this significantly increases fuel consumption.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Minimize 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 wastes fuel. This is especially relevant in city driving with frequent stops.

Reduce aerodynamic drag. Remove any unnecessary items from the roof rack or cargo carrier, as these increase wind resistance and decrease fuel economy, particularly at highway speeds. Keeping the car clean can also help reduce drag.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a constant speed with cruise control can often improve fuel economy, especially on relatively flat stretches of road. Be mindful of the terrain and traffic conditions, and disengage cruise control when necessary for safety.