While 32 MPG combined for the 2022 Subaru Impreza 4-Door 2.0L won’t break any fuel economy records, it’s a respectable figure for a compact sedan that includes standard all-wheel drive. This car prioritizes sure-footedness in all weather conditions over maximizing gas mileage. For Impreza buyers, fuel economy is a consideration, not an obsession.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2022 Impreza 4-Door are 28 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects stop-and-go traffic and frequent acceleration, conditions where the 2.0L 4-cylinder engine works harder. The highway figure reflects the Impreza’s ability to cruise efficiently at steady speeds.

While 36 MPG is good, remember that maintaining higher speeds, especially above 70 MPH, will negatively affect fuel economy due to increased aerodynamic drag. Smart highway driving can easily surpass that 36 MPG figure, while aggressive city driving will certainly lower the 28 MPG estimate.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Subaru Impreza 4-Door 2.0L at $1,350. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of roads you typically drive on, and the price of gasoline in your area. Someone primarily driving short distances in the city will likely spend more than someone who mostly commutes on the highway. Consider this a useful benchmark to compare against other vehicles, and feel free to consult all Subaru fuel economy data to decide what’s best for you.

If you drive less than 15,000 miles annually, expect to spend less on fuel, and vice versa.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy can change. Factors like driving style, road conditions, and even tire pressure can influence the MPG you achieve. Aggressive acceleration and braking will decrease fuel economy, as will carrying heavy loads or driving in hilly terrain. The Impreza’s continuously variable transmission (CVT), which Subaru calls AV-S7, is designed to optimize fuel efficiency by keeping the engine in its most efficient RPM range, but even the best CVT is still affected by driving conditions. Drivers who prioritize smooth, consistent acceleration and anticipate traffic flow are more likely to achieve or even exceed the EPA estimates.

It is important to monitor your own fuel consumption over several tanks of gas by logging odometer readings and gallons filled to see what type of mileage to expect, especially if you are considering the IMPREZA MPG across all years.

How it compares

The Impreza is in a competitive vehicle class. The Honda Civic Hatchback LX achieves 35 MPG combined in its most efficient configuration, and offers peppy performance. The Toyota Corolla Hatchback SE gets around 35 MPG combined too. These competitors offer front-wheel drive only, which helps their fuel economy. While the Impreza gets slightly fewer MPG compared to these front-wheel-drive rivals, it includes standard all-wheel drive. For buyers who live in areas with frequent snow or inclement weather, that trade-off is often worthwhile.

The Mazda3, praised for its engaging driving dynamics and premium interior, also gets around 32 MPG combined in its base form. This comparison is about value too. For some, the Mazda3’s interior and handling make up for its higher price. For others, all-wheel-drive is necessary.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintain proper tire inflation. The correct tire pressure, specified on the tire placard on the driver’s side doorjamb, minimizes rolling resistance and optimizes fuel economy. Regularly check your tires and inflate them to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, putting more strain on the engine and reducing fuel efficiency.

Avoid aggressive driving habits. Rapid acceleration and hard braking consume more fuel than smooth, gradual acceleration and anticipating traffic flow. Adopting a more relaxed and deliberate driving style minimizes unnecessary fuel consumption. Even with the all-wheel-drive capability, you should try to drive cautiously to save gas.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods wastes fuel. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines and starters can handle frequent starts and stops without significant wear and tear. This is even more important if you mostly drive in the city.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy on long highway drives. By limiting speed fluctuations, cruise control prevents unnecessary acceleration and braking, thus conserving fuel. Of course, traffic conditions must allow the option of using cruise control.