21 MPG combined. This number might not excite buyers looking at a Camry or Accord. But for 2015 Subaru WRX fans, especially those with the automatic (CVT) version, it’s an accepted trade-off. This car prioritizes performance over fuel efficiency, a fact reflected in its MPG.

City and highway performance

The 2015 WRX 2.0L automatic gets EPA estimated 19 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city MPG shows the cost of frequent stops and fast acceleration, something WRX drivers often enjoy. The highway MPG, while not great, is more acceptable. Reaching 25 MPG means resisting the urge to use the turbocharged engine’s mid-range torque for passing. It requires restraint, which isn’t always typical for WRX drivers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the 2015 Subaru WRX 2.0L automatic fuel cost at $2,750 per year. This assumes 15,000 miles of driving, with a mix of city and highway roads, using the EPA’s average national fuel price estimates. Note that the WRX needs premium fuel, which raises the cost compared to cars using regular. WRX owners accept this higher cost as part of owning a performance car. This highlights the difference between purchase price and ownership cost. Check all Subaru fuel economy data to see how the WRX compares to other models.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are helpful for comparisons, but actual MPG can vary. WRX drivers who accelerate hard or drive aggressively will likely see numbers below 20 MPG combined. Drivers who focus on fuel efficiency and drive carefully might get close to or slightly exceed the EPA estimates. Driving style matters a lot, as does the type of driving. A commute that is mostly highway driving at steady speeds will give better MPG than one with traffic lights and stops. Some owners might also research mechanical problems that could worsen fuel economy.

How it compares

The 2015 WRX 2.0L automatic’s MPG places it in a specific spot compared to competitors. The 2015 Volkswagen GTI, a sporty hatchback, gets 25 MPG combined with its automatic. The Ford Focus ST, another similar rival, is in the same range. These differences affect running costs. A Honda Civic Si from the same year gets around 31 MPG combined. The WRX trades some fuel efficiency for all-wheel drive, a key selling point for those in snowy areas. Those considering the WRX understand that fuel economy isn’t its best feature, performance and AWD are reasons for that compromise. Potential owners can also compare WRX MPG across all years to see if another model year fits their needs better.

Tips to maximize efficiency

One simple way to save fuel is to avoid fast acceleration. The WRX’s turbocharged engine gives great performance, but quick bursts of speed use a lot of gas. Smooth, slow acceleration will help.

Correct tire inflation is important. Regularly check your tire pressure and set it to the recommended specifications, usually on a sticker inside the driver’s door. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and burn more fuel. Correctly inflated tires also improve handling and make tires last longer.

Avoid idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines restart quickly, and the fuel saved by turning off the engine is more than restarting it. This helps especially in city driving.

Reduce air resistance. Remove unneeded items from the roof rack, like cargo carriers or bike racks, when not being used. These increase drag, making the engine work harder and use more fuel, especially at highway speeds. Even small changes can add up to savings.

Use cruise control on the highway. Keeping a steady speed with cruise control helps improve fuel efficiency. It prevents speed changes from inconsistent throttle, which can waste fuel from accelerating too often. Pay attention to traffic and turn off cruise control when needed for safety.