25 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards for less gas, but for the 2022 Subaru BRZ, it’s an acceptable trade-off. This isn’t a car designed for hypermilers; it’s a focused sports coupe catering to enthusiasts who prioritize driving experience over outright fuel efficiency. Buyers are willing to accept mid-20s MPG in exchange for sharp handling, a responsive engine, and the sheer joy of a rear-wheel-drive sports car.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2022 BRZ with the 2.4L engine and automatic transmission at 21 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. The lower city figure reflects the BRZ’s eagerness to rev and its sporty gearing, traits that can lead to heavier throttle use in stop-and-go traffic. The 30 MPG highway estimate is more respectable and achievable on longer road trips, especially when driven with a lighter foot. However, expect this figure to dip when engaging in spirited driving or encountering hilly terrain. For highway driving, it’s better than the Mazda MX-5 Miata, which achieves 26 city and 35 highway MPG.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2022 Subaru BRZ is $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate, and your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel you use. Because it is a sports car and requires higher octane fuel, fuel costs are generally higher as a result.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a benchmark, real-world fuel economy often differs. BRZ drivers often report figures slightly below the official combined MPG, particularly those who regularly explore the car’s performance capabilities. Consistent aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and extended idling will all negatively impact fuel efficiency. Conversely, those who prioritize smooth acceleration and consistent speeds on the open road may find themselves closer to the EPA highway estimate. Use online fuel tracking resources and apps to monitor your own personal MPG to get a more accurate understanding of your BRZ’s fuel consumption.

How it compares

The BRZ’s fuel economy needs to be viewed in context of its competitors. The Mazda MX-5 Miata, a direct rival, achieves significantly better MPG, EPA rated at 26 MPG city and 34 MPG highway. However, the Miata prioritizes lightweight agility over outright power. The Nissan Z, another RWD sports car, achieves only 19 MPG city and 28 MPG highway with its twin-turbo V6, showcasing the BRZ’s relative efficiency in the sports car class. Drivers considering other sports coupes like the Toyota GR86 (essentially a BRZ twin) will find similar MPG figures. Potential buyers will need to weigh the BRZ’s fuel economy against other factors, such as price, performance, and driving experience, referencing BRZ MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Minimize aggressive acceleration. The BRZ’s engine is responsive and loves to rev, but heavy throttle use burns more fuel. Focus on smooth, progressive acceleration to maintain momentum and avoid unnecessary strain on the engine. Think like you are driving a race car, slow is smooth, smooth is fast.

Optimize your tire pressure. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, improving fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. A few PSI difference can alter gas mileage in small amounts.

Reduce idling time. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. The BRZ doesn’t have a start/stop system to do this automatically, so you’ll need to be mindful of it yourself. While some may call this “old school,” reducing idling makes a significant improvement in overall gas mileage in the long run.

Plan your routes carefully. The BRZ is more fuel-efficient on the highway than in stop-and-go city traffic. Opt for routes that minimize traffic congestion and involve fewer starts and stops to improve your fuel economy. Use your navigation system to avoid areas with known traffic incidents and optimize mileage.