21 MPG combined. Those three digits define the 2022 Subaru WRX 2.4L, but not in the way they would for a sensible sedan or hybrid hatchback. The WRX buyer isn’t prioritizing pump prices above all else. They’re seeking a turbocharged, all-wheel-drive car that emphasizes thrills, a rally-bred icon that trades a bit of efficiency for tenacious grip and engaging performance. This is a car purchased for smiles per mile, not necessarily miles per gallon, and the WRX’s fuel consumption is a known, and generally accepted, quantity.

City and highway performance

The 2022 WRX equipped with the 2.4L engine and automatic (AV-S8) transmission earns an EPA rating of 19 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the realities of driving a performance-oriented vehicle. The city MPG suffers from frequent stop-and-go traffic and the temptation to exploit the turbocharger’s boost. The highway number, while better, is still impacted by the WRX’s aerodynamic profile (or lack thereof) and the all-wheel-drive system’s inherent drag. Manual transmission models demonstrate slightly higher highway MPG, however this article refers to the automatic transmission variant.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Subaru WRX 2.4L at $2,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Of course, your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use (premium is recommended for optimal performance), and local fuel prices. Consider this number a benchmark for comparison against other vehicles, and a reminder that performance driving comes at a price.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides valuable standardized testing data, real-world fuel economy often deviates. Expect to see numbers slightly below the EPA estimates if you frequently engage in spirited driving or live in an area with heavy traffic congestion. On the other hand, if you adopt a gentle driving style and predominantly cruise on the highway, you might approach or even slightly exceed the EPA’s highway rating. The WRX’s fuel economy is highly sensitive to driving habits, rewarding smoothness and penalizing aggressive acceleration. A considerable number of owners see values closer to 18-20 MPG in mixed driving, emphasizing the “thrill machine” aspect over outright efficiency.

How it compares

Compared to its rivals, the WRX sits in a specific niche. The Honda Civic Si, a front-wheel-drive performance compact, achieves 31 MPG combined. This represents a significant advantage in fuel economy, but it comes at the cost of all-weather capability and the distinctive character of the WRX’s turbo-charged boxer engine. The Volkswagen GTI, another front-wheel-drive contender, manages around 28 MPG combined. All Subaru fuel economy data, including those of more efficient models, can be found on FuelEconomyHub.com. The Hyundai Elantra N, which boasts similar horsepower to the WRX, gets 25 MPG Combined and is front-wheel drive like the GTI and Civic Si. The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, a direct competitor to the WRX in the past, is no longer in production, highlighting the WRX’s remaining position as an icon. For the WRX buyer, the trade-off is acceptable: they prioritize performance and all-wheel drive over maximizing fuel savings. This is a completely different comparison than, for example, a hybrid SUV buyer would make. WRX MPG across all years can vary depending on the generation.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Resist the urge to constantly accelerate hard. Smooth, gradual throttle inputs will significantly improve your fuel economy. The turbocharger loves to drink fuel when it’s spooled up, so minimizing boost usage around town will make a noticeable difference.

Maintain proper tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which in turn reduces fuel economy. Consult the sticker on your driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure and check it regularly.

Avoid unnecessary idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and idling wastes fuel without providing any benefit.

Reduce your overall weight. Removing unnecessary items from your vehicle also helps. Every pound you eliminate contributes to efficiency, especially during acceleration.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed can help you achieve better fuel economy than constantly varying your speed, especially on long trips. Just remember to disengage it in heavy traffic or inclement weather.