28 MPG combined puts the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport/Touring AWD 2.5L 4-cyl in the realm of practical, all-weather family transportation, a figure that matches the vehicle’s core mission of reliable, go-anywhere capability without excessive running costs. This isn’t a vehicle chasing outlandish performance or niche luxury; it’s an SUV designed for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who values sure-footedness and utility. The Forester owner prioritizes dependability, a spacious interior, and the peace of mind its symmetrical all-wheel drive system brings, whether navigating snowy mountain passes or muddy campground roads. For them, 28 MPG is an efficient return from a powertrain that consistently delivers power to all four wheels.

City and highway performance

Looking closer at the EPA figures, the 2026 Forester Sport/Touring AWD registers 25 MPG in city driving and 32 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects typical stop-and-go conditions where an all-wheel-drive system and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) are working to balance traction and efficiency. While 25 MPG isn’t segment-leading, it’s a solid showing for an SUV with over 8.7 inches of ground clearance and a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter Boxer engine. On the open road, the 32 MPG highway figure truly leads. This indicates that the Automatic (AV-S8) transmission, Subaru’s Lineartronic CVT with an 8-speed manual shift mode, is effectively optimizing revs for cruising. Long road trips to national parks or ski resorts, a common use case for Forester owners, will benefit significantly from this respectable highway efficiency. The powertrain, while not a powerhouse, is well-matched to the vehicle’s character, providing adequate acceleration for merging and passing without severely penalizing fuel consumption.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $1,550 for the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport/Touring AWD 2.5L 4-cyl. This figure is derived from the assumption of driving 15,000 miles per year, with an equal mix of city and highway driving, and using national average fuel prices, which the EPA regularly updates. For prospective buyers, this $1,550 represents a tangible, transparent estimate of what it will cost to keep the Forester fueled annually, beyond the purchase price. It places the Forester in a favorable position regarding ongoing ownership costs, especially when considering its all-wheel-drive capability and family-friendly dimensions. For many, a predictable and moderate annual fuel bill is a cornerstone of responsible vehicle ownership, directly aligning with the Forester’s practical appeal.

Real-world expectations

In real-world driving scenarios, owners of the 2026 Forester Sport/Touring AWD 2.5L 4-cyl can widely expect to achieve MPG figures very close to the 28 MPG combined rating. Subaru has a consistent track record of delivering EPA numbers that are attainable by the average driver. Drivers whose commutes are heavily skewed towards highway travel will likely see averages closer to the 32 MPG highway figure, sometimes even exceeding it with mindful driving techniques. Conversely, those primarily navigating dense urban environments might gravitate closer to the 25 MPG city estimate. Factors such as geographical terrain (hilly vs. flat), frequent use of the climate control system, and carrying heavy loads will naturally influence fuel economy. However, the Forester’s powertrain is designed for predictable performance, meaning dramatic deviations from the EPA’s estimates are uncommon unless driving habits are exceptionally aggressive or passive. Explore FORESTER MPG across all years for historical context.

How it compares

The 2026 Forester Sport/Touring AWD 2.5L 4-cyl operates within a highly competitive compact SUV segment. When stacked against key rivals, its 28 MPG combined often holds its own, especially when considering its standard symmetrical all-wheel drive. For instance, the all Subaru fuel economy data shows the Forester as a strong contender. The Toyota RAV4, a perennial bestseller, offers a non-hybrid AWD 2.5L variant with 30 MPG combined, a slight edge over the Forester, but often at a higher price point for comparable features. The Honda CR-V AWD 1.5T typically achieves 29 MPG combined, also marginally better, but with a turbocharged engine that some prefer for city zip, yet might not match the Forester’s ground clearance or perceived ruggedness. Mazda’s CX-50 2.5L naturally aspirated AWD also delivers 27-28 MPG combined, very similar to the Forester, appealing to those who prefer a more on-road oriented driving experience. The Forester truly differentiates itself in its unwavering commitment to symmetrical AWD as standard and its reliable, utilitarian character. While some competitors might boast slightly higher MPG with front-wheel drive options or smaller, turbocharged engines, Forester buyers appreciate the consistent power delivery and off-pavement prowess that its specific configuration offers, finding the 28 MPG a perfectly acceptable trade-off for these attributes.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintain consistent and smooth throttle inputs, particularly on the highway. The CVT in your Forester is designed to keep the engine in its most efficient RPM range, and abrupt acceleration or deceleration forces it to work harder, consuming more fuel. Allow it to do its job by driving progressively.

Regularly check your tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to expend more energy to move the vehicle. Proper inflation, as specified on your Forester’s door jamb placard, can improve fuel economy by several percent.

Avoid unnecessary weight in the vehicle. While the Forester is built for utility, carrying heavy items like rooftop cargo carriers when not needed, or tools and gear that aren’t critical for your immediate trip adds bulk. Every extra pound slightly decreases your MPG.

Use the X-MODE system judiciously. While invaluable for tackling challenging terrain, X-MODE optimizes traction at the expense of some fuel efficiency by altering transmission shift points and engine output. Disengage it when conditions don’t warrant its use.