A combined fuel economy of 27 MPG with all-wheel drive is a hallmark of the 2016 Subaru Forester 2.5i. It’s a practical compromise that appeals to a broad audience while delivering go-anywhere capability. This isn’t a hybrid, so don’t expect Prius levels of efficiency. Instead, it offers a sensible balance, providing respectable mileage without sacrificing Subaru’s core values of safety, reliability, and all-weather confidence. Buyers accept and appreciate this efficiency when choosing a Forester over two-wheel drive competitors.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2016 Forester AWD 2.5L place city driving at 24 MPG and highway driving at 31 MPG. These numbers reflect the real-world usage patterns Subaru expects from its drivers. The city figure acknowledges the increased fuel consumption associated with stop-and-go traffic, while the highway MPG suggests the Forester is a comfortable and relatively efficient long-distance vehicle. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) plays an important role here, constantly adjusting gear ratios to keep the engine operating in its most efficient range, even if the driving experience can sometimes feel a bit detached.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, you can expect to spend approximately $1,600 per year on fuel for the 2016 Subaru Forester AWD 2.5L. This estimate is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and assumes national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of roads you typically drive on, and the local price of gasoline. Aggressive driving or consistent use in heavy traffic will increase that number, while careful throttle control and mostly highway miles will likely reduce it. This $1,600 figure provides a good benchmark, but it is not a guarantee.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Forester owners frequently report achieving figures close to the EPA’s, but it’s essential to understand the factors that can influence your mileage. These include driving style, tire pressure, vehicle load, and even weather conditions. Owners who prioritize smooth acceleration and anticipate traffic flow tend to see better results. Properly inflated tires and minimizing unnecessary cargo weight also contribute to improved fuel efficiency. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and air filter replacements, is critical to keep the 2.5-liter engine running efficiently.

How it compares

The all-wheel drive is the Subaru Forester’s key feature, and this affects the fuel economy relative to the competition. The Toyota RAV4 LE AWD, for example, achieves a slightly higher 25 city / 32 highway MPG. The Nissan Rogue, especially in its front-wheel-drive configuration, can often deliver even better economy. A Mazda CX-5 with front-wheel drive is another option with a few more MPG on the highway. However, all of these alternatives require a sacrifice. For the price point, buyers select the Subaru Forester for its all wheel drive system instead.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Subaru’s CVT transmission is programmed for fuel efficiency, so avoid abrupt acceleration. The CVT favors smooth, gradual increases in speed, which allows it to keep the engine operating in its optimal range. Think ahead and anticipate traffic flow to minimize the need for sudden braking and acceleration, two actions that significantly reduce fuel efficiency.

Tire pressure affects fuel economy more than many owners realize. Consult the sticker on your driver’s side door jamb for the recommended tire pressure for your 2016 Forester. Regularly check and maintain your tire pressure according to these recommendations. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and consume more fuel.

Cold weather can significantly reduce fuel economy. During colder months, allow the engine to warm up for a short period before driving, particularly if you live in an area with freezing temperatures. This allows the engine and catalytic converter to reach their optimal operating temperatures, improving combustion efficiency.

The Forester’s roof rack is practical for carrying cargo, but it can also create aerodynamic drag. When not in use, consider removing the roof rack crossbars to reduce wind resistance and improve fuel economy, especially on the highway. Even a slight reduction in drag can translate to savings over time.

Regularly inspect and replace your engine air filter. A clean air filter ensures that the engine receives an adequate supply of air for combustion. A clogged air filter restricts airflow, causing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. All Subaru fuel economy data demonstrates the importance of regular maintenance. For example, older Subarus generally earn lower MPG ratings. For more information about the Forester, check out this FORESTER MPG across all years.