30 MPG combined is a solid, if not spectacular, fuel economy number for the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport 4-Door. It’s a number that appeals to a specific buyer: someone who prioritizes practicality, all-weather capability, and long-term reliability over top-tier fuel efficiency. They’re willing to accept decent gas mileage in exchange for the security and versatility the Impreza offers, especially as a slightly more stylish “Sport” trim.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Impreza Sport at 27 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go traffic, where the 2.0L 4-cylinder engine and the automatic (AV-S7) transmission are working harder. The highway number is more encouraging, demonstrating the potential for fuel savings on longer trips. The pairing of these two numbers provides a realistic preview of what you’ll see in mixed driving.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport 4-Door is $1,450. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel prices at the time of testing. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use (regular unleaded is recommended), and local gas prices. However, $1,450 provides a reasonable benchmark for budgeting purposes, allowing you to estimate long-term car ownership costs.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides standardized testing results, real-world fuel economy often differs. Aggressive driving, heavy loads, and poor weather conditions can all negatively impact your MPG. Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive, while a major selling point, also slightly reduces fuel efficiency compared to front-wheel-drive competitors. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) in the Impreza is programmed to keep the engine in its most efficient range most of the time, but it will still consume more fuel if asked to accelerate quickly or maintain high speeds.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2018 Impreza’s fuel economy is generally competitive, but not class-leading. The Honda Civic, for example, can achieve up to 42 MPG highway in certain trims, such as the Civic Sedan EX with its 1.5-liter turbocharged engine. The Mazda3, known for its engaging driving dynamics, achieves approximately 28 MPG combined with its 2.0-liter engine. The Toyota Corolla offers consistently good fuel economy, around 31 MPG combined, in most trims. These differences matter because the Impreza buyer could be cross-shopping these cars for their practicality and reliability. The Civic offers more space, the Mazda is sharper to drive, and the Corolla is often the most affordable.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Smooth, consistent throttle inputs are important. The Impreza’s CVT responds best to gentle acceleration and maintaining a steady speed. Avoid abrupt acceleration or hard braking to use its efficiency programming. The transmission shifts smoothly when driven gently, preventing you from wasting fuel.

Monitor your tire pressure regularly and ensure they are inflated to the recommended specification, usually found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, significantly decreasing fuel economy. Correct tire pressure also improves handling and tire wear.

Minimize unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Carrying around heavy items in the trunk or backseat increases the engine’s workload and reduces MPG. Clear out any unnecessary cargo to lessen the load and improve fuel efficiency.

Plan your routes efficiently to minimize stop-and-go driving and idling. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. Also, try to avoid driving during peak traffic hours to enhance your fuel economy.

Be aware of factors like air conditioning use, which increases engine load. Only use the AC when necessary, especially at lower speeds, and consider opening the windows when practical. You can investigate all Subaru fuel economy data and IMPREZA MPG across all years to see how different driving habits and conditions affect efficiency.