The 2019 Subaru Legacy AWD 2.5L gets 29 MPG combined. This might seem unremarkable for a modern mid-size sedan, but every Legacy model includes standard all-wheel drive. That 29 MPG is a calculated compromise, a reasonable trade-off for the year-round security and surefootedness that makes the Legacy appealing, especially for buyers in northern climates or those who prioritize traction.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2019 Legacy 2.5L at 25 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the energy used in stop-and-go driving, impacted by the all-wheel-drive system constantly distributing power. The highway number is more respectable, showcasing the efficiency of the 2.5L engine and the automatic transmission (AV-S7) when cruising at steady speeds. These numbers are not class-leading, but they are respectable and work well for a daily commuter that requires all-weather capability. Instead of outright fuel efficiency, the Legacy serves a specific purpose.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2019 Subaru Legacy AWD 2.5L is $1,500. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This benchmark lets potential buyers quickly gauge the cost of ownership compared to other vehicles. Consider how much more you might spend with a less fuel-efficient vehicle, or the potential savings with a hybrid, weighing those costs against the Legacy’s benefits.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates give a valuable benchmark, but real-world fuel economy can vary based on driving habits, terrain, and weather conditions. Aggressive acceleration, frequent braking, and extended idling will all negatively impact your MPG. Hills, mountainous roads, and strong headwinds will also reduce fuel economy. Proper tire inflation, regular maintenance, and a smooth driving style are important to reaching, or even exceeding, the EPA’s estimations. Many owners find they can achieve numbers close to the EPA ratings with careful driving.

How it compares

In the mid-size sedan segment, the Legacy’s fuel economy puts it in a specific niche. For instance, the Toyota Camry LE gets 32 MPG combined in its base form with front-wheel drive, giving it an advantage over the Legacy. A Honda Accord LX, also with front-wheel drive, earns 33 MPG combined. The Nissan Altima S manages 32 MPG combined in its standard configuration. However, the Altima offers an optional all-wheel-drive system with a slight fuel economy penalty, but still typically beating the Legacy. What the Legacy gives up in raw fuel efficiency comes back with standard all-wheel drive, a feature not standard on these other competing models. The comparison matters to buyers who actively require or desire all-wheel drive. Those prioritizing MPG will likely look elsewhere. Browsing LEGACY MPG across all years reveals the consistent fuel economy offered by Subaru over time. For all Subaru fuel economy data, our website offers a detailed overview.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Subaru’s Lineartronic CVT can sometimes hold the engine at higher RPMs under moderate acceleration. To minimize this, practice smooth, progressive acceleration. Avoid sudden bursts of speed unless absolutely necessary. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent pace to allow the CVT to optimize engine speed for maximum fuel economy.

Tire pressure is critical for fuel efficiency. Regularly check and maintain the correct tire pressure as indicated on the door placard. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which directly reduces fuel economy. And rotating tires regularly can prevent uneven wear, maximizing their lifespan and further optimizing rolling resistance.

Avoid carrying unnecessary weight in the vehicle. The heavier the Legacy, the more energy it takes to accelerate and maintain speed. Remove any items you don’t need, particularly heavy objects in the trunk. Even small reductions in weight can add up over time and improve fuel economy.

Consider using cruise control on long highway drives. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, reducing fluctuations in throttle position and minimizing fuel consumption. But be mindful of using cruise control in hilly terrain, as the transmission may downshift frequently, negating some of the fuel-saving benefits.