29 MPG combined is acceptable for the 2023 Subaru Forester AWD 2.5L. It won’t win any hypermiling contests, but that number reflects the priorities of the typical Forester buyer: reliability, safety, practicality, and all-weather confidence. Fuel economy is a consideration, but it’s lower on the list than the other attributes Subaru delivers.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2023 Forester will achieve 26 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects stop-and-go driving, where the Forester’s naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engine works harder to get its 3,449 pounds moving. The automatic transmission (AV-S7), a continuously variable transmission (CVT), prioritizes smooth operation and fuel efficiency once cruising. The highway figure is more impressive, indicating the Forester can hold its own on longer drives. Many owners find the highway number is relatively easy to achieve, especially on flat terrain at consistent speeds. The all-wheel-drive system, which is standard on every Forester, is always engaged, contributing to a small fuel economy penalty compared to front-wheel-drive rivals, but the added security and traction make it a worthwhile trade-off for most buyers who live in areas prone to snow or rain.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Subaru Forester at $1,500. This number is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices, and it provides a standardized benchmark for comparing the Forester’s running costs with other vehicles. Remember that this is just an estimate; your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local fuel prices. It is wise to check and see all Subaru fuel economy data before making a purchase.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a useful point of comparison, real-world fuel economy often differs. Forester owners frequently report MPG figures that are within a few miles per gallon of the official estimates, which shows the accuracy of the testing and the efficiency of the powertrain in normal driving conditions. Careful driving habits and regular maintenance can help owners achieve or even exceed the EPA numbers. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and neglecting routine servicing will all negatively impact fuel economy.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2023 Subaru Forester’s fuel economy holds up reasonably well. The Toyota RAV4, another popular compact SUV, achieves 30 MPG combined in its non-hybrid, front-wheel drive configuration; going to AWD drops that slightly. The Honda CR-V boasts 28 MPG combined. The Mazda CX-5 with its standard engine gets 26 MPG combined. All of these vehicles are very closely matched. The Forester’s appeal lies not in being the most fuel-efficient option, but in providing a well-rounded package of features and capabilities that appeal to a specific type of buyer. These buyers value the standard AWD, the Forester’s reputation for safety and reliability, and its spacious interior, and are willing to accept slightly lower fuel economy as a result. You can also check FORESTER MPG across all years to see how the vehicle has evolved.

Tips to maximize efficiency

One of the easiest ways to improve fuel economy is to adopt smoother driving habits. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, and try to maintain a consistent speed whenever possible. The Forester’s CVT is designed to optimize fuel efficiency, but it works best when the driver isn’t constantly demanding sudden bursts of power.

Proper tire inflation is another simple way to improve fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate your tires to the recommended pressure listed on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Also, ensure your tires are properly aligned.

Reduce the amount of weight you carry in your vehicle. Carrying unnecessary cargo can significantly impact fuel economy, especially in a smaller vehicle like the Forester. Remove any items you don’t need, such as sporting equipment or tools, to reduce the load on the engine.

Regular maintenance is critical for maintaining good fuel economy. Keep your engine properly tuned, change the oil and filters regularly, and ensure that all other maintenance tasks are performed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. A well-maintained engine will run more efficiently and deliver better fuel economy.

Consider limiting the use of accessories that consume extra power. Air conditioning, for example, can significantly reduce fuel economy, especially in warm weather. Use it sparingly and try to rely on the ventilation system whenever possible. Similarly, avoid using power-hungry accessories like heated seats unless they are truly needed.