28 MPG combined makes the 2025 Subaru Forester Sport/Touring AWD 2.5L 4-cyl exactly what loyal Subaru buyers expect: a pragmatic, capable, and efficient compact SUV that prioritizes genuine utility and all-weather confidence over flash. This isn’t a vehicle chasing segment-leading hybrid numbers, nor is it a thirsty beast. It’s the sweet spot for an owner who values the inherent stability of Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive, the elevated ground clearance, and the proven reliability of the boxer engine, all without excessive trips to the pump. The Forester’s mission is clear: get you and your gear wherever you need to go, comfortably and competently, and this efficiency rating confirms it delivers on that promise for its target demographic of active adventurers, practical families, and those living in climates where AWD isn’t a luxury, but a necessity.

City and highway performance

The 2025 Forester Sport/Touring’s fuel economy shows 25 MPG in the city and a strong 32 MPG on the open highway. The city figure reflects the nature of traditional internal combustion engines, more stop-and-go driving means more fuel consumed. However, 25 MPG in urban environments for a perpetually AWD SUV is respectable, speaking to the efficiency of the 2.5-liter four-cylinder boxer engine and the smooth operation of the Automatic (AV-S8) continuously variable transmission (CVT). On the highway, the Forester truly stretches its legs. 32 MPG means long road trips are not just feasible, but genuinely economical. This is where the CVT’s ability to keep the engine in its most efficient rev range shines, allowing the Forester to cruise with minimal effort and impressive economy. Whether you’re navigating suburban errands or embarking on a cross-state adventure, the Forester’s numbers indicate a consistently capable and surprisingly frugal companion.

Annual fuel cost

Based on EPA estimates, the 2025 Subaru Forester Sport/Touring AWD 2.5L 4-cyl has an annual fuel cost of $1,550. This figure is calculated on the assumption of driving 15,000 miles per year, with a split of 45% highway and 55% city driving, using national average fuel prices. For many Subaru owners, this annual outlay represents predictable and manageable operational expenses. It’s a transparent way for potential buyers to understand the real-world financial commitment beyond the purchase price. This $1,550 figure confirms the Forester’s position as an economical choice for daily driving and weekend excursions alike, providing peace of mind from a financial perspective for a vehicle that’s built to instill confidence on the road.

Real-world expectations

While EPA ratings provide a solid baseline, real-world fuel economy can, and often does, vary. Owners of the 2025 Forester Sport/Touring will likely find themselves very close to the EPA’s combined 28 MPG, provided they adopt reasonable driving habits. Enthusiastic acceleration and frequent hard braking will inevitably pull those numbers down slightly, particularly in city driving. Conversely, a disciplined driver on flatter terrain, consistently adhering to speed limits on the highway, might even eke out slightly better than 32 MPG. The Forester’s always-on symmetrical AWD system, while providing unparalleled traction, does inherently carry a minor efficiency penalty compared to part-time or front-wheel-drive-biased systems that decouple the rear axle. This is a trade-off its buyers willingly make for the superior grip and stability in adverse conditions. The 8.7 inches of ground clearance, while excellent for light off-roading and clearing snowdrifts, also means a slightly less aerodynamic profile than lower-slung sedans, a minor factor in its overall efficiency. For most Forester Sport/Touring owners, the real-world numbers will mirror the EPA estimates, showcasing the vehicle’s consistent and dependable efficiency.

How it compares

The 2025 Forester Sport/Touring AWD’s 28 MPG combined places it squarely in the competitive compact SUV segment, often outshining rivals for its standard AWD while being outpaced by dedicated FWD or hybrid models. Take the popular Honda CR-V AWD, which manages 29 MPG combined (27 city/32 highway) with its 1.5L turbo. While slightly higher, the CR-V’s AWD system is typically FWD-biased with on-demand engagement, a different philosophy than Subaru’s constant symmetrical system. The Toyota RAV4 LE AWD, a direct competitor, achieves 30 MPG combined (27 city/34 highway), making it slightly more efficient on paper, but again, its AWD system is different. When you look at hybrid versions, like the RAV4 Hybrid AWD at 39 MPG combined, the Forester’s 28 MPG seems less impressive, but Subarus are not typically “hybrid-first” vehicles like Toyota. Nissan’s Rogue AWD also clocks in at 30 MPG combined (28 city/35 highway), thanks to its VC-Turbo engine. However, none of these offerings share the Forester’s unique blend of standard full-time AWD, generous ground clearance, and the distinct boxer engine character. Buyers choose the FORESTER MPG across all years because they prioritize that intrinsic Subaru ruggedness and capability, accepting solid, rather than class-leading, efficiency as part of the package.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintaining consistent tire pressure, ideally checking it every month, is one of the easiest and most impactful ways to preserve the Forester’s fuel economy. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel, while proper inflation ensures optimal contact with the road and minimizes effort. Adopting a smooth driving style will significantly enhance your MPG. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, instead, anticipate traffic and allow the Forester’s efficient powertrain to maintain a steady pace, letting the CVT operate in its most economical range.

For those frequently using the Forester for cargo or towing, be mindful of excess weight. Even small, seemingly insignificant items can add up, increasing the effort required from the 2.5L engine. Remove roof racks, cargo boxes, or unused gear when not needed, as these create aerodynamic drag and negate the vehicle’s designed efficiency.

Use the Forester’s X-MODE only when absolutely necessary, such as on slippery surfaces or uneven terrain. While excellent for traction and control, X-MODE can adjust transmission ratios and throttle response in ways that may prioritize grip over ultimate fuel efficiency. For everyday driving on paved roads, keep it disengaged.

Regular maintenance, including timely oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug checks according to the manufacturer’s schedule, is important. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently, ensuring that every drop of fuel is converted into power as optimally as possible, directly impacting your real-world MPG.