The 2017 Subaru Impreza 4-Door 2.0L achieves a combined fuel economy of 32 MPG, which is a practical and economical choice for those seeking all-weather capability without sacrificing everyday efficiency. It isn’t a sports car, nor is it a large SUV. The Impreza is ideal for buyers who prioritize reliability, safety, and the confidence of standard all-wheel drive in a compact and affordable package. Understanding this MPG figure requires appreciating the Impreza’s core mission: providing accessible AWD without high gas costs.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2017 Impreza 4-Door 2.0L break down to 28 MPG in the city and 38 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the realities of stop-and-go traffic and lower average speeds, where the Impreza’s 2.0L engine works harder to maintain momentum. The highway number showcases the benefits of the automatic (AV-S7) transmission, optimized for efficient cruising at sustained speeds. These numbers indicate a well-rounded performance, suitable for both urban commutes and longer road trips.

While some competitors might achieve slightly higher highway figures, they often lack the Impreza’s standard all-wheel drive, a feature that inherently adds weight and complexity, impacting fuel economy. Buyers accept this trade-off for the enhanced traction and stability in challenging conditions. They know they can confidently navigate snow, rain, or gravel roads without sacrificing too much at the pump.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Subaru Impreza 4-Door 2.0L at $1,350. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a useful benchmark for comparing the Impreza’s running costs to other vehicles in its class. However, individual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the specific type of fuel used.

Aggressive driving, prolonged idling, and using premium fuel when it’s not required can all significantly increase this annual cost. The $1,350 estimate provides a standardized way to assess the Impreza’s affordability, showing its appeal to budget-conscious buyers who still value all-wheel drive capability.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a valuable baseline, real-world fuel economy often deviates due to various factors. Driving style, terrain, weather conditions, and even tire pressure can all influence the MPG you actually achieve. Impreza owners who frequently engage in spirited driving or navigate hilly terrain may find their fuel economy closer to the city estimate, while those who primarily drive on flat highways at consistent speeds could see figures exceeding the EPA highway rating.

Regular maintenance, including timely oil changes and tire rotations, also plays an important role in maintaining optimal fuel efficiency. Owners should also remember that the Impreza’s all-wheel-drive system, while beneficial for traction, can slightly reduce fuel economy compared to front-wheel-drive alternatives.

How it compares

The 2017 Impreza’s fuel economy stacks up competitively against other compact cars, though direct comparisons often involve compromises. For example, a 2017 Honda Civic Sedan with the 2.0L engine and CVT achieves an EPA-estimated 31 MPG combined, offering slightly better city figures but lacking the Impreza’s standard all-wheel drive. The 2017 Toyota Corolla LE Eco boasts an impressive 34 MPG combined, prioritizing less gas but sacrificing the all-weather confidence that Impreza buyers often prioritize.

Looking at other AWD options, the 2017 Mazda3 i-ACTIV AWD achieves around 30 MPG combined, making the Impreza’s 32 MPG very respectable. Ultimately, the Impreza’s fuel economy is a selling point for buyers who place a premium on safety and all-weather capability, even if it means a minor trade-off in outright MPG compared to some front-wheel-drive alternatives. For a broader view, browse all Subaru fuel economy data, and for model-specific information, check IMPREZA MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and braking are key to maximizing fuel economy in the 2017 Impreza. Avoid “jackrabbit” starts and hard braking, as these actions consume significantly more fuel. Gradually increase your speed and anticipate traffic flow to maintain a smoother driving style. The Impreza’s automatic transmission is designed to shift efficiently, so allowing it to do its job without aggressive pedal inputs will provide benefits at the pump.

Maintaining proper tire inflation is another simple yet effective way to improve fuel economy. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Even a small amount of underinflation can have a noticeable impact on your MPG.

Reduce unnecessary weight in your vehicle. Extra cargo adds to the load the engine must carry, decreasing fuel efficiency. Remove any items you don’t need from the trunk and passenger compartment. A lighter vehicle requires less energy to accelerate and maintain speed, resulting in fuel savings.

Limit idling time whenever possible. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, consider turning off the engine. This is especially important in urban environments with frequent stops. Restarting the engine consumes a small amount of fuel, but it’s still more efficient than idling for an extended period.

Plan your trips strategically. Combine errands into a single route to minimize cold starts, which are less fuel-efficient. Avoid peak traffic times when possible, as stop-and-go driving significantly reduces fuel economy. Using navigation apps to find the most efficient route can also help you avoid congested areas and optimize your fuel consumption.