The 2024 Subaru Forester AWD 2.5L 4-cyl achieves 29 MPG combined, reflecting its purpose as a practical, reliable, and adventure-ready compact SUV. This isn’t a hybrid focused on maximum efficiency, nor is it a performance car sacrificing economy for power. It’s a Forester, and its MPG suits the needs of active, outdoorsy owners who value all-weather capability and cargo space as much as fuel savings.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2024 Forester gets 26 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway. These numbers show an engine and continuously variable transmission (CVT) tuned for everyday usability. The 2.5L four-cylinder engine provides enough power for merging onto highways and navigating urban traffic, while the CVT helps keep the engine in its most efficient rev range. The highway MPG is particularly noticeable, suggesting the Forester is a comfortable and relatively fuel-efficient choice for longer road trips. This is clearly a benefit for Forester buyers who frequently venture into the mountains, forests, and remote areas that are so popular with this vehicle’s drivers. The Forester’s standard all-wheel-drive system, while providing excellent traction in various conditions, slightly impacts fuel economy compared to front-wheel-drive competitors. The drivetrain’s surefootedness is a worthwhile trade-off for many buyers.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Subaru Forester is estimated at $1,500. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Individual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits and local fuel prices, but this estimate provides a useful benchmark for comparing the Forester’s running costs to those of other vehicles. It’s important to remember that this is an estimate. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and carrying heavy loads can all reduce fuel economy and increase annual fuel costs.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates offer a valuable baseline, real-world fuel economy can differ significantly based on individual driving habits, terrain, and weather conditions. Forester drivers who live in hilly areas or frequently encounter stop-and-go traffic may find their MPG slightly lower than the EPA estimates. However, those who do mostly highway driving at moderate speeds may achieve better-than-expected fuel economy. Things such as tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and the use of accessories like roof racks can also change fuel consumption. Forester owners often prioritize practicality and utility, which sometimes means carrying extra gear or opting for off-road tires, both of which can negatively impact MPG. A realistic expectation for most Forester owners is to see numbers within a few MPG of the EPA estimates, with some variation based on individual circumstances.

How it compares

The Forester’s 29 MPG combined puts it in a competitive position within the compact SUV segment. The Toyota RAV4, a perennial sales leader, achieves up to 30 MPG combined in its non-hybrid form, making it a close competitor. The Honda CR-V, another popular choice, delivers around 30 MPG combined as well. It’s important to consider the Forester’s standard all-wheel-drive when making these comparisons. Many competitors offer AWD as an option, often with a slight MPG penalty. For example, a Mazda CX-5 with AWD gets around 26 MPG combined. Although front-wheel-drive versions of these competitors may offer slightly better fuel economy, the Forester’s standard AWD provides a level of all-weather capability that resonates with buyers who value safety and confidence in challenging driving conditions. For all all Subaru fuel economy data, including previous model years, visit our site.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and braking are key to optimizing fuel economy in the Subaru Forester. Avoid aggressive acceleration from a stop, and anticipate traffic flow to minimize hard braking. The CVT is designed to keep the engine in its optimal efficiency range, so let it do its job by driving smoothly and predictably.

Proper tire inflation is important for both safety and fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side door. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy.

Minimize the use of accessories that draw power from the engine. Air conditioning, especially on hot days, can significantly impact fuel economy. Use it carefully, and consider opening windows when appropriate. Roof racks and cargo carriers also increase aerodynamic drag, so remove them when they’re not needed.

Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your Forester running efficiently. Make sure that your engine is properly tuned, and follow the recommended maintenance schedule for oil changes, air filter replacements, and other services. A well-maintained engine will run more efficiently and deliver better fuel economy. Be sure to check out FORESTER MPG across all years to compare to previous models.

Plan your trips strategically to minimize stop-and-go traffic. Use traffic apps to identify congested routes and explore alternative paths. When possible, combine multiple errands into a single trip to reduce the number of cold starts, which are less fuel-efficient.