The 2017 Subaru Legacy AWD 2.5L gets a combined 29 MPG. This number reflects a practical compromise for buyers who want all-weather capability and reliability more than the best possible fuel efficiency. It’s not a hybrid focused on maximum MPG, but a dependable sedan built to handle snow and tough conditions without needing frequent fill-ups.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Legacy will get 25 MPG in the city, and 34 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects the energy needed in stop-and-go traffic, where the Legacy’s naturally aspirated 2.5L engine and automatic (AV-S6) transmission work harder when accelerating from a stop. The highway figure is better, helped by the transmission’s ability to keep engine speeds low at cruising speed. These numbers are appropriate for the typical use case for many Legacy owners: daily commuting mixed with weekend trips where all-wheel drive gives more confidence.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Subaru Legacy AWD 2.5L at $1,500. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using national average fuel prices. How much you actually spend on fuel will change depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the specific conditions where you drive. This $1,500 gives a standardized benchmark for comparing the Legacy’s fuel expenses against other vehicles.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates give a baseline, real-world fuel economy can change. The Legacy’s symmetrical all-wheel drive system, which is good for traction, adds weight and drivetrain friction, which hurts fuel efficiency. Drivers who accelerate quickly can expect to see MPG numbers drop below the EPA estimates, especially in city driving. But those who accelerate smoothly and drive at consistent highway speeds can likely match or even slightly exceed the EPA’s highway rating. Using accessories like air conditioning and roof racks also affects fuel consumption.

How it compares

The 2017 Subaru Legacy AWD 2.5L is capable, even though it doesn’t get best-in-class fuel economy. The 2017 Toyota Camry LE, for example, gets an EPA-estimated 33 MPG combined, giving it a slight advantage. A 2017 Honda Accord LX can get even better fuel economy than the Camry, with an EPA rating of 36 MPG combined. But neither of these has the standard all-wheel drive of the Legacy. Drivers must decide if the better traction is worth sacrificing a few MPGs. If all-wheel drive isn’t a must-have, the 2017 Mazda 6 with its 2.5L engine achieves 29 MPG combined while providing a more fun driving experience than the Legacy. If you want to see all Subaru fuel economy data , we have that available. A good reference is also the LEGACY MPG across all years available on our site.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Accelerate gently to get the best possible gas mileage in the 2017 Legacy. While the all-wheel drive system gives excellent grip, avoid accelerating hard, because that burns fuel quickly. Smooth, careful use of the gas pedal will improve your MPG significantly, especially in city driving.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and use more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications, which you can find on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Don’t carry unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in the trunk or on the roof rack significantly impacts fuel efficiency. Remove any unnecessary items to lighten the load and improve your MPG, specifically before long trips.

Drive efficiently. Combining multiple errands into one trip reduces cold starts, which really hurt fuel economy. Plan the best route, avoiding traffic and unnecessary stops.

The continuously variable transmission (CVT) is programmed for fuel efficiency. If your car has paddle shifters, using them to simulate gear changes can sometimes help keep the engine in its most efficient range, specifically when climbing hills or accelerating on the highway.