The 2021 Subaru Forester AWD 2.5L 4-cyl gets 29 MPG combined, which is respectable. This is especially true considering its standard all-wheel-drive system and the fact that it’s often purchased by people who prioritize practicality and all-weather confidence over outright fuel efficiency. This isn’t a hybrid trying to win the MPG race; it’s a capable, comfortable, and safe compact SUV built for weekend adventures, family hauling, and navigating snowy roads. It delivers adequate fuel economy as a side benefit, not its main goal.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2021 Forester at 26 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway. While the combined figure is a good indicator of overall fuel consumption, these individual ratings give a more detailed picture. The city MPG reflects the demands of stop-and-go traffic, where the Forester’s naturally aspirated 2.5L engine and automatic transmission work harder. The highway MPG, however, shows its efficiency on long trips, where consistent speeds allow the engine to operate closer to its optimal range. Remember that individual driving habits and terrain can significantly impact these figures.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Subaru Forester AWD 2.5L 4-cyl to be $1,500. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and assumes the then-current national average fuel price. Of course, actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits and the kind of driving you do (more city or more highway). Fuel costs also depend on where you live, as gasoline prices fluctuate regionally, but $1,500 provides a useful baseline for comparing the Forester’s fuel expenses to other vehicles in its class. Also, this figure assumes regular unleaded gasoline, as the Forester doesn’t require premium fuel.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides standardized fuel economy estimates, real-world MPG often differs. Forester owners often report achieving figures close to the EPA’s ratings if they drive conservatively and maintain their vehicles properly. Factors such as aggressive acceleration, frequent short trips, carrying heavy loads, and the use of accessories like roof racks can reduce fuel economy. Altitude can also play a role, as thinner air at higher elevations can affect engine performance and fuel consumption. Checking FORESTER MPG across all years is essential to understanding potential variations.

How it compares

In the crowded compact SUV segment, the Forester’s fuel economy is in the middle. The Toyota RAV4 LE, for example, gets an EPA-estimated 28 MPG combined with its standard gasoline engine and front-wheel drive (AWD models see a slight reduction). The Honda CR-V LX, with its 1.5L turbocharged engine, also posts 28 MPG combined for the front-wheel-drive model. However, the Nissan Rogue S boasts an EPA-estimated 30 MPG combined. The Mazda CX-5, known for its sporty driving dynamics, comes in slightly lower depending on the engine, around 26 MPG combined for its naturally aspirated 2.5L. The Forester’s advantage is its standard all-wheel drive. Other SUVs offer AWD as an option, but it often comes with a fuel economy penalty; the Forester doesn’t require buyers to sacrifice foul-weather capability for decent mileage. Remember this as you review all Subaru fuel economy data, since AWD is common across the lineup.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

The Forester’s continuously variable transmission (CVT) is designed for efficiency. Minimize abrupt acceleration and braking to allow it to operate smoothly and keep the engine in its most efficient range. Aggressive driving forces the CVT to simulate gear changes, which uses more fuel.

Tire pressure is critical. Make sure your Forester’s tires are inflated to the recommended pressure, which you can find on a sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, reducing fuel economy and causing premature tire wear. Check pressures regularly, especially with temperature fluctuations.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Empty the cargo area of items you don’t need. Extra weight forces the engine to work harder, using more fuel. This is especially important on the Forester; its 2.5L engine is adequate, but not overflowing with power.

Plan your routes strategically. Avoid congested areas and times of day when possible. Stop-and-go traffic drastically reduces fuel economy. Using a navigation system with real-time traffic updates can help you identify and avoid these areas and optimize your fuel consumption.

Consider using the Forester’s “Intelligent” (I) drive mode. The “Sport” (S) mode offers quicker throttle response, but it also consumes more fuel. The “Intelligent” mode prioritizes fuel efficiency by moderating throttle response and optimizing the CVT’s operation. Even a slight adjustment in driving style can improve fuel economy over time.