The 2023 Subaru Outback’s 25 MPG combined rating is acceptable, and practically expected, for a vehicle focused on practicality and go-anywhere capability. No one buys an Outback for hybrid-rivalling fuel efficiency. They buy it for the standard all-wheel drive, the generous cargo space, the raised ground clearance, and the reliable character. Fuel economy is simply a calculation they make in the cost of owning a vehicle that suits their adventurous lifestyle.

City and highway performance

The 2023 Outback AWD 2.4L gets an EPA-estimated 22 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the added strain of stop-and-go traffic on the engine and the energy required to repeatedly accelerate a vehicle of this size. The highway figure, while respectable, isn’t class-leading. Highway fuel economy is slightly suppressed by the permanent all-wheel-drive system, which demands more energy than a part-time or front-wheel-drive setup. The automatic (AV-S8) transmission helps to optimize fuel economy on the open road, keeping the four-cylinder engine in its sweet spot.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Subaru Outback 2.4L at $1,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and assumes fuel prices at the national average. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (city vs. highway), and the price of gasoline in your area. Someone who does predominantly city driving will spend more than $1,750 annually, while someone who sticks to the highway, and drives conservatively, can beat that figure.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a standardized benchmark, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Several factors influence what you’ll actually see on your Outback’s trip computer. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, carrying heavy loads, and using accessories like roof racks all decrease mileage.

Gentle acceleration, consistent highway speeds, and proper tire inflation can help you approach or exceed the EPA estimates. Some Outback owners report achieving highway figures slightly above the 29 MPG estimate on long road trips, the engine’s efficiency at a steady cruise makes it possible.

How it compares

The Outback’s fuel economy places it with other AWD crossovers. The Toyota RAV4 AWD, for example, achieves 27 MPG combined, a slight edge. The Honda CR-V AWD posts 29 MPG and is a popular option. However, neither offers the Outback’s standard all-wheel-drive system or the rough-road capability and image that is so core to the Outback.

You would need to compare these against the RAV4 TRD Off-Road or CR-V trailsport trimlevels, which will both see fuel efficiency below the standard AWD options. The Ford Bronco Sport posts a 26 MPG combined with its 1.5L Ecoboost engine. Owners who aren’t obsessed with saving every last drop of fuel will gladly trade a few MPG for the Outback’s added capability and rugged charm.

For all Subaru fuel economy data click here, and if you want even more on Outbacks check OUTBACK MPG across all years.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

Avoid hard acceleration. The 2.4L engine in the Outback responds well to a gentle foot. Accelerating smoothly and gradually allows the engine to operate in its most efficient range, minimizing fuel consumption.

Maintain proper tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and burns more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate to the recommended level found on the sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb.

Minimize idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and idling consumes fuel without moving the car. This is especially true on cold starts: idling for an extended period won’t warm the engine faster than simply driving.

Service the vehicle on schedule. Regular maintenance, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements, ensures that the engine is running smoothly and efficiently. A well-maintained engine consumes less fuel and produces fewer emissions.

Lighten your load. Extra weight in the vehicle has a direct impact on fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk and cargo area. And if you regularly use a roof rack, consider removing it when not in use, as it increases aerodynamic drag and reduces fuel efficiency.